PARKSTON, S.D. — Two bridge repair projects are set to begin on South Dakota Highway 44, impacting some traffic, especially during rush hours.

Work will begin March 28 on the SD 44's crossing over the James River, approximately 15 miles east of Parkston.

The project will consist of basic repairs to the bridge as well as replacement of existing steel barrier rails with concrete barrier rails. The bridge approach will also be repaved and see new guardrails added.

Construction crews will place stop signs on both sides of the bridge in the early morning hours on March 28, and traffic will be limited to one vehicle on the bridge at a time for the duration of the project. The South Dakota Department of Transportation (SDDOT) estimates work on the James River crossing will be complete by June 24.

After the James River crossing upgrades are complete, construction crews will move five miles east to begin work on the Wolf Creek crossing for similar repairs, which are expected to last until Aug. 26, 2022.

The SDDOT said traffic will be required to stop within the work zones at both bridges, and must be aware of construction workers and equipment that will be nearby the road's shoulders. Motorists should anticipate delays to their travel and plan accordingly.

SFC Civil Constructors, a division of Journey Group Company of Sioux Falls, was selected as the prime contractor for the project. Though they have until Nov. 4, 2022, as a final deadline, they believe the work will be completed well ahead of schedule.

The SDDOT asks anyone with questions to contact Harvey Odens at 605-367-5680.