Codington County Infrastructure Update: 14th Avenue Bridge Replacement Ahead of Schedule

Northeast Radio SD News – Watertown, SD - During Tuesday’s Codington County Commissioners’ meeting, Highway Superintendent Randy Falvey shared that the 14th Avenue Northwest Bridge replacement project is currently trending ahead of its anticipated construction schedule.

The $2 million project, which began in November 2025, involves the complete replacement of the aging structure over the Big Sioux River. The prime contractor, Grangaard Construction Inc. of Watertown, has successfully navigated the winter months, with Falvey reporting that structural framing for the bridge deck is already largely in place.

“We’ve been very fortunate with the weather,” Falvey stated, noting that the recent thaw and ice movement have not hindered the structural integrity of the temporary works or the new construction.

Key Project Details:

·         Location: 14th Avenue Northwest, between 7th Street West and 10th Street Northwest.

·         Funding: A shared project between the South Dakota Department of Transportation (81.95%) and a local split between the City of Watertown and Codington County.

·         Completion Target: While the overall contract date extends through October 2026, current progress suggests a major milestone for traffic reopening could occur as early as July 2026.

Until completion, motorists are advised to continue using the established detour route via S.D. Highway 20, 10th Avenue Northwest, and U.S. Highway 81. County officials expressed relief that the project has avoided the “ice jam” delays that have historically plagued river-based construction in the region.