Wildlife sightings raise collision concerns along Park City roads

Park City Police logged multiple wildlife sightings on Jan. 13 that brought deer, elk and a moose onto or near heavily traveled streets, increasing the risk of vehicle collisions and public-safety incidents for residents and commuters.

Calls to police recorded animals near Holiday Ranch Loop Road; at the Kearns Boulevard and Richardson Flat Road intersection; and at Bonanza Drive and Iron Horse Drive. One report described an elk herd crossing State Route 248 near Richardson Flat Road early in the morning. Another entry detailed large groups of deer attempting to cross near apartment complexes. A moose was also reported near the City Park tennis courts. These incidents were documented in the department’s public logs and reflect multiple sightings across town on a single day.

Wildlife-vehicle encounters are a recurring safety concern in Park City, where open space, trails and residential neighborhoods intersect with commuter routes. Collisions with deer and elk can cause serious vehicle damage and injuries, and a moose on or near roadways presents particular danger because of the animal’s size. For drivers, the concentrated locations named in the logs represent corridors where extra vigilance is warranted, especially during low light hours.

Beyond immediate collision risk, repeated sightings near housing and park areas underscore broader community impacts. Families walking to nearby bus stops, apartment residents leaving for work, school transportation and visitors unfamiliar with local wildlife movement patterns are all exposed. Emergency responders may also face increased demand following collisions, stretching public-safety resources during peak winter travel times.

The pattern of sightings points to policy and infrastructure questions for city leaders and transportation planners. Mitigation options commonly discussed in mountain communities include targeted signage, seasonal speed advisories, enhanced lighting where appropriate, and coordination with wildlife agencies on habitat use and migration routes. Community-level solutions can reduce danger while respecting wildlife needs, but they require resources and coordination.

For now, practical steps can help reduce harm. Slow down along the corridors listed in recent logs, watch for animal eyeshine at dawn and dusk, allow more stopping distance and avoid abrupt swerving if an animal appears. Report live or injured wildlife sightings to Park City Police using the nonemergency line so responders can assess risks and inform neighbors.

The takeaway? Treat your commute like a hike with wildlife—expect surprises and give animals, and your fellow residents, room to cross safely. Our two cents? Slow down, stay alert and let the herd pass.