SDDOT to Switch Highway 212 and 33rd Street Signal to Flashing Mode Ahead of Potential Removal

Northeast Radio SD News – Watertown, SD - Motorists traveling through the east side of Watertown should prepare for a change in traffic patterns beginning next week.

The South Dakota Department of Transportation (SDDOT) has announced that, starting Tuesday, April 7, 2026, the traffic signals at the intersection of U.S. Highway 212 and 33rd Street SE will be placed in flashing operation.

Under the new configuration, the signals will flash yellow for traffic on Highway 212 and red for traffic on 33rd Street SE. This means drivers on 33rd Street will be required to stop completely before entering the highway, while highway traffic should proceed with caution.

The flashing mode is expected to remain in place for approximately 90 days. This period serves as a field evaluation to allow SDDOT engineers to monitor traffic flow and identify any unforeseen issues before the signals are permanently removed.

According to the SDDOT, a recently completed traffic analysis determined that the intersection does not currently meet—and is not projected to meet—the necessary traffic “warrants” or requirements to justify a full traffic signal.

“The signals are being placed in flashing operation in anticipation of removal,” the department stated in a release. “This allows the SDDOT to evaluate traffic operations and identify any unanticipated issues that may arise.”

The decision is part of a larger corridor study conducted along Highway 212, spanning from 19th Street SE to Interstate 29. The study evaluated safety needs and current and future traffic operations for the area. While the 33rd Street signal is being phased out, the study has led to the development of a new signal installation project at the intersection of Highway 212 and 26th Street SE.

Residents with questions regarding the change are encouraged to contact Matt Brey, Watertown Area Engineer, at 605-882-5166 or via email at matt.brey@state.sd.us.

For the latest updates on road conditions and construction zones, motorists can visit https://sd511.org or dial 511.