If you’ve traveled east of Madison on Highway 34 in the last few days, you probably noticed the sign that says “Road Work Starts April 13th”.

It’s true, a summer long construction project starts Monday, from the intersection of Washington Avenue, going east for 7.3 miles. 

The SDDOT says the project includes cold milling and overlay of the existing asphalt surface on Highway 34, as well as guardrail upgrades, pipe work, and new pavement markings, and maintenance on both bridges over Silver Creek.

The project also includes full reconstruction of the intersection at 457th Avenue and Highway 34, which will be closed during construction.

The State says traffic impacts at various times will include a reduced speed limit of 45 mph and single-lane closures with flaggers and pilot cars guiding traffic through the work zone.

Operations will start on the eastbound lane and continue through late spring. Work will then shift to the westbound lane in early summer and continue through mid-summer. 

Milling operations along Highway 34 are anticipated to begin in mid-August, followed by asphalt paving in late August, with both activities expected to be completed by early fall.