Mitchell Republic: Highway 38 road work between Alexandria and Spencer to begin June 8
A series of road closures are planned to start in June that will affect traffic on State Highway 38 east of Mitchell.
Beginning on Monday, June 8, State Highway 38 will be closed to through traffic from 421st Avenue, which runs north out of Alexandria, east to State Highway 25.
This Highway 38 closure will be in place for the duration of the reconstruction project through November 2026.
During the closures, motorists will be directed to the signed detour route on U.S. Highway 81, Interstate 90, and Highway 38P (Riverside Road). Access to homes and property adjacent to the project will be maintained for local traffic.
Another section of Highway 38 from Highway 25 to 430th Avenue (near Spencer) will be closed and constructed in September 2026.
The SDDOT said the project work includes grading to the roadway for improved driving conditions and sight distance. Interim surfacing will be placed to provide a safe surface during construction.
Crews will modify the intersection to improve traffic flow and enhance safety. Pipe work will also be completed to improve drainage and reduce the risk of water collecting on the roadway.
The primary contractor on the $8 million project is Loiseau Construction, Inc. of Flandreau. The overall project completion date is Friday, Nov. 20, 2026.