Department of Transportation
For Immediate Release: May 8, 2002
For More Information: Ron Gillen, Eric Prunty, or Rick Brandner 995-8120

MITCHELL, SD – Reconstruction work is underway on Highway 37 from Spruce Street in Mitchell to Highway 42 near Ethan.

The project will be completed in two phases. The first phase, which will be completed by late May, will involve pipe and box culvert extensions and preparation of the detour road. Highway 37 will remain open during this time.

The second part of the project involves processing the existing asphalt surface and reusing it as a gravel base for the reconstructed highway. While this work is being completed, Highway 37 will be closed to through traffic and the detour road will be utilized. Local traffic will be routed to the nearest section line road. 

The detour route begins at Interstate 90 near Trail King in Mitchell. It will run south 10 miles on a county road with a two-mile jaunt east to Highway 37. The detour will have an oil-blotter surface to cut down on dust and provide a smoother surface. 

It is expected that Highway 37 will be reopened to traffic near the end of August. The overall completion date of the project is mid-October. 

The prime contractor for this project is Irving F. Jensen, Inc. from Sioux City, Iowa.

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