PIERRE, S.D. – Governor Kristi Noem and the South Dakota Department of Transportation today announced that the grade raise on Highway 18 east of Lake Andes is complete and the roadway is open to traffic. Highway 18 has been closed since March 22 because of severe flooding.

“Earlier this summer, I met with local and tribal leaders who asked the State to consider building up Highway 18. Rising waters had covered roadways, cutting off highway access for people and businesses in the area,” said Noem. “Following that conversation, I put plans into motion to raise the roadway and restore access for people in the area. I’m pleased that the project reached completion today, and I look forward to continuing our recovery efforts with leaders in Lake Andes and other communities impacted by storms.”

Work completed on this project included raising the grade, placing asphalt surfacing, installing rumble strips, permanent signing, pavement markings and reflective delineation. Additional work completed included a connection to the tribal housing road east of 383rd Avenue.

The Department of Transportation will continue monitoring water levels and plans to place additional dirt embankment on the in-slopes, extend drainage culverts, and connect local roads.