Grand Teton Speed Limit Lowered At Night

Drivers passing through Grand Teton National Park at night will have to slow down as part of an effort to reduce the number of wildlife crashes.

Starting Wednesday, the speed limit on highway 26/89/191 between the park's south boundary and the east boundary will drop from 55 mph to 45 between dusk and dawn. It will take drivers about six minutes longer to drive the 28-mile stretch at the reduced speed.

The number of vehicles colliding with wildlife in the park has been growing since 2008. Last year was the worst on record, with 162 animals hit and killed.

Park spokeswoman Jenny Anzelmo-Sarles said the speed limit on the scenic Teton Park Road is 45 mph and there have been fewer run-ins there between vehicles and wildlife.

Associated Press