A major Sioux Falls road is set to reopen in time for the new school year, but the area remains an active road construction zone for the time being.
Cliff Avenue at the I-229 interchange has been closed for months, significantly impacting traffic on the south side of Sioux Falls. It has made Lincoln High School nearly in accessible.
Officials say one lane in each direction is opening Thursday, Aug. 21. That’s the first day of school.
Sioux Falls City Engineer Andy Berg says though Cliff Avenue is opening, drivers can still expect delays.
“Parents, students and school staff that are commuting to and from Lincoln High School everyday – we want people to plan ahead. Give yourself extra time because it’s still a construction zone, it’s going to be backed up again,” Berg said. “And for those commuters that aren’t going to Lincoln High School – we’d still ask you to use an alternate route as much as possible so school traffic can be a priority in this area.”
In addition, 41st Street will open from Minnesota Avenue to Cliff Avenue. A temporary traffic signal will guide traffic at 41st and Cliff.
“We know closing Cliff Avenue had a big impact on drivers, bicyclists, and pedestrians, and we appreciate everyone’s patience this summer,” Berg said. “Closing Cliff Avenue allowed crews to work more safely and with greater efficiency. Despite some rainy weather, the team made tremendous progress on the project the past two months.”
The Department of Transportation said the I-229/Cliff Avenue project is set to be complete in June of 2027.