Lochner Leads Wildlife Crossing Study for Kentucky Transportation Cabinet

Lochner is leading a wildlife crossing pilot study for the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet (KYTC) that focuses on US 60 and I-64 between Frankfort and Louisville. During the study, our team is collecting data on wildlife movement, identifying crash hotspots, and leveraging our expertise in highway safety and wildlife ecology to recommend countermeasures. Using emerging technologies like thermal imaging and multivariate modeling, our goal is to uncover and understand hidden patterns in wildlife behavior. This pilot study represents the first step towards implementing a statewide program aimed at reducing wildlife-vehicle crashes.

“Transportation infrastructure largely considers the movement and habitat of threatened or endangered species, but Lochner is particularly excited about this study because it widens the lens to consider all wildlife, especially those like white-tailed deer,” said Lochner Project Manager, Tony Miller, PE. “During our research, we learned there are roughly 75 deer-related crashes every year in the study area alone. By collecting as much information as possible on their home ranges and movements, a model can be built to predict their behavior and develop safer accommodations—a win-win for people and animals.”

After only four days into the study, the Lochner team counted approximately 400 deer during drone flights within a half-mile boundary along the highway. The deer’s trail systems are also being found within the adjacent forested riparian zones during the subsequent habitat delineation work.

A large component of the pilot study involves partnering extensively with KYTC as well as various state and federal agencies, citizen groups, universities, and non-profits to develop scalable mitigation measures. “This project is an opportunity to come together professionally,” said Tony, “and create the foundation for a statewide program that benefits all Kentucky residents.” Lochner looks forward to being a part of Kentucky’s more comprehensive planning approach and to supporting KYTC’s leadership in safer transportation infrastructure.