UPDATE: Highway 212 bridge in Watertown opening today!

February 6, 2020

WATERTOWN, S.D. – The South Dakota Department of Transportation says the new bridge built over the Big Sioux River on Highway 212 in Watertown will open today (Thursday).

Temporary pavement has been placed so the project could be opened to traffic. In the spring, this temporary pavement will be removed to make way for the new approach panels and underdrain system at each end of the bridge. Remaining sidewalk work and permanent pavement marking will also be completed in the spring.

The $10.3 million project has reconstructed one mile of Highway 212 from Highway 20 to Highway 81 and included utility work, grading, storm sewer, curb and gutter, sidewalk, structure, concrete paving, lighting and signal upgrades.

The overall completion date for the project was set for Oct. 25, 2019. Significant weather delays and the high river levels on the Big Sioux River delayed completion of the project.