U.S. Highway 281 from Wolsey to Redfield
Project Summary:
The project includes milling the existing roadway and placing a new asphalt concrete overlay to provide a smoother ride for motorists. Shoulders will also be resurfaced to improve safety and provide additional recovery space for drivers.
Crews will modify the intersection to enhance traffic flow and improve safety. Lighting upgrades will increase visibility in low-light conditions. Pipe work will improve drainage, helping prevent water buildup and extending the life of the roadway.
Project Updates:
Aug. 28, 2026:
Anticipated Work in Sept. 2026: Milling operations will begin at the southern limits of Redfield and continue south through S.D. Highway 28 where the new pavement begins. Blade‑laid asphalt will follow, along with shoulder grading. Mainline paving is anticipated to begin in late September and will start at Redfield, continuing south toward Highway 28.
Completed Work in Aug 2026: The turn lanes at S.D. Highway 26 and U.S. Highway 281 have been completed. Blade‑laid asphalt and the final top course of asphalt concrete paving have been installed from just south of S.D. Highway 28 to the northern extents of Wolsey. Work will be suspended through the South Dakota State Fair.
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July 27, 2026:
Anticipated Work in Aug. 2026: Asphalt milling, reclamation and paving will continue south on U.S. Highway 281/U.S. Highway 14 toward Wolsey. Shoulder work in Wolsey will be completed, and the turn lanes at the intersection of S.D. Highway 26 and U.S. Highway 281 will be completed.
Completed Work in July 2026: Grading and initial paving have been completed at the intersection of 192nd Street and U.S. Highway 281/U.S. Highway 14. Grading has begun at the intersection of S.D. Highway 26 and U.S. Highway 281 for turn lanes and alignment improvements. Shoulder work is being performed at the north and south ends of Wolsey. Asphalt milling and reclamation have begun from the intersection of S.D. Highway 28 and U.S. Highway 281 toward Wolsey. Blade laying and standard asphalt paving will follow the milling operations to the south.