Wildlife‑crossing funding proposal paused after committee questions over $2M TIF transfer

Representative Chu presented substitute language to create a dedicated fund for wildlife crossings using Transportation Investment Fund mechanics and an automatic $2 million annual transfer, which sponsors said would allow the state to match federal grants and address priority crossing locations not tied to existing highway projects.

Isabelle Lingenfelter of the Utah Wildlife Federation testified that crossings reduce vehicle‑wildlife collisions "by up to 90%" at hot spots and that a dedicated account would help address areas without other highway construction plans. UDOT staff reported roughly 20 animal‑safety projects totaling about $34 million over the last three years and about $15 million in federal matching funds, and said an existing $20 million set‑aside had helped secure federal grants.

Committee members supported the policy goal but expressed concern about the bill’s automatic diversion of $2 million each year from the TIF and whether that would displace other projects. One member said he would support a voluntary contribution mechanism and federal match strategy but was reluctant to take the automatic transfer without further refinement. After discussion and public testimony, the committee voted 5–2 to hold the bill for substitute rather than advance it at this time.

Sponsor Chu said he was disappointed but appreciated the opportunity to continue working with UDOT and stakeholders.