Where the wild things cross: Deer silhouettes promote road safety

PARK CITY, Utah—Two reflective deer silhouettes were installed over the weekend along SR 248 (Kearns Boulevard) to raise driver awareness of wildlife crossings. These follow the installation of moose along SR 224 in 2023.

The silhouettes aim to alert motorists to the frequent movement of wildlife across this busy roadway, enhancing safety for both animals and people. The location, near the transition from open space to suburban neighborhoods, is a critical corridor for wildlife attracted by available habitat, food sources and a nearby waterway.

Several factors contributed to the decision to install the silhouettes at this site: the proximity to multiple schools, the heavy traffic volume, a recent pedestrian fatality, and the roadway’s speed limit drop from 50 mph to 35 mph.

SPSW extended its gratitude to Todd Hansen, the Board of Education’s director of buildings and grounds, for facilitating communication and permissions necessary for the project. Hansen also worked with SPSW on-site to select the most strategic locations for the silhouettes.

The organization said it is hopeful that wildlife conveyance and roadway safety will remain a priority in future community planning efforts.

Swaner installs silhouette sculptures to help reduce wildlife-vehicle collisions