Watertown Public Works Announces Highway 81 Lane Closures for Manhole and Pavement Repairs

Road closure sign in Watertown, South Dakota, indicating temporary traffic rerouting, as announced by Northeast Radio SD.

Northeast Radio SD News - Watertown, SD - The City of Watertown Public Works Department is scheduled to begin road work starting the morning of Wednesday, November 5, 2025, at the intersection of Highway 81 and 4th St NE near the Gas n Goodies location.

The necessary repair work focuses on two key elements: the removal and replacement of a damaged manhole frame and cover, and the replacement of two concrete pavement sections within the Highway 81 roadway, each approximately 12-feet square.

Traffic Impact and Detours

To facilitate the construction and ensure the safety of workers and the public, traffic control measures will be in effect, requiring specific lane closures on Highway 81. The center turning lane and the inside northbound lane of Highway 81 will be closed between Arrow Ave N and C Ave N.

These lane closures will eliminate left-hand turns into and out of 4th St E and B Ave N for the duration of the project.

Duration and Accessibility

The Public Works Department anticipates that the construction and all related traffic control items will be completed and removed by Monday, November 10.

Despite the lane restrictions on Highway 81, the department assures the public that all local residences and businesses located within the construction area will remain accessible at all times.

Motorists are advised to exercise caution when driving near the construction zone and observe all posted traffic control devices.

Aerial view of Watertown, SD layout featuring Highway 81 running vertically on the left side. Residential streets and buildings, including 5th St E, 6th St, and various avenues, are clearly labeled. A marked red area signifies a specific section along Highway 81, possibly indicating construction or a planned development zone.