SALT LAKE CITY — The Utah Department of Transportation reports that a herd of around 40 elk was stranded on Salt Lake City’s east bench on Wednesday morning. But by around 9:30 a.m., the herd had been safely directed to more mountainous areas.

All traffic control in the area has ceased. The herd is now above Foothill Drive and has gone to the top of the mountains. We are unaware if there are stragglers, so continue to be cautious.

— Utah DOT (@UtahDOT) February 1, 2023

 Traffic was impacted on Foothill Drive, I-215, and on I-80 as Utah traffic and wildlife officials worked to help the animals across the road.

🚨EMERGENCY TRAFFIC ALERT🚨– Around 40 elk are causing delays on Salt Lake County’s east bench. Expect delays on all roads near the I-215/I-80 interchange (including Foothill Dr., I-215, and I-80) as we help DWR get the elk across the road safely. pic.twitter.com/4GVftGjAHS

— Utah DOT (@UtahDOT) February 1, 2023

 This is the second time in less than a week that a herd of elk moved closer to the city and to humans, likely in search of more easily accessed food.

Related reading:

• Herd of elk pushed away from I-80 and moved back into mountains
• Elk move to private land when hunting season starts, say BYU researchers

 

 

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