Temporary traffic measures implemented as Sturgis Motorcycle Rally approaches

Temporary Traffic Measures in Place for Sturgis Motorcycle Rally

As the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally approaches, local drivers and visitors alike should be aware of new temporary traffic measures designed to ensure safety and manage increased congestion. These changes are particularly important for those familiar with the usual traffic patterns in the area, as they may need to adjust their routines during the event.

The South Dakota Department of Transportation (SDDOT) has implemented a series of temporary traffic controls, including signals and reduced speed limit signs, around Sturgis, Hill City, and Rapid City. These measures aim to safely accommodate the large number of motorcyclists expected during the annual rally, which runs from August 1 to August 10.

The temporary traffic controls will be in effect starting on Friday, July 25, and will remain until the end of the day on Monday, August 11. This timeframe includes the peak days of the rally, ensuring that traffic remains manageable throughout the event.

Key Locations with Temporary Traffic Signals

Several key intersections and roadways will have temporary traffic signals installed. These include:

• S.D. Highway 34/79 and Nellie Avenue
• S.D. Highway 34/79 and Ft. Meade main entrance
• S.D. Highway 34/79 and Glencoe Drive
• S.D. Highway 34 and S.D. Highway 79 east of Sturgis
• S.D. Highway 34 and Ft. Meade Way (Buffalo Chip)
• S.D. Highway 44 and U.S. Highway 385
• U.S. Highway 16 and U.S. Highway 385 east of Hill City
• S.D. Highway 34/79 and 8th Street in Sturgis
• S.D. Highway 34/79 and 11th Street in Sturgis
• Interstate 90 exit 32 westbound ramp
• Interstate 90 exit 32 eastbound ramp
• Interstate 90 exit 55 eastbound ramp

These signals are intended to help regulate the flow of traffic and prevent potential bottlenecks in high-traffic areas.

Reduced Speed Limits

In addition to the temporary traffic signals, speed limits will be reduced in several areas from Thursday, July 31, through Sunday, August 10. The specific reductions include:

• On Interstate 90, the speed limit will be reduced from 75 mph to 65 mph from west of exit 55 (Deadwood Avenue) in Rapid City to west of exit 30 (Lazelle Street) in Sturgis.
• On S.D. Highway 34, the speed limit will be reduced from 65 mph to 35 mph from Blanche Street in Sturgis, east approximately four miles (east of Buffalo Chip).
• On S.D. Highway 79, the speed limit will be reduced from 65 mph to 45 mph from the junction of S.D. Highway 34 north approximately two miles (north of Iron Horse Campground) and from one-half mile south of the intersection with Bighorn Road north approximately one mile, near the Full Throttle Saloon and Drag Pipe Saloon approaches.

Drivers are urged to pay close attention to these changes and adjust their speeds accordingly.

Additional Safety Measures

To keep travelers informed about traffic conditions, the SDDOT will also install message boards and speed trailers on the interstate. These devices will display messages regarding traffic conditions, crashes causing delays, extreme weather events, and other relevant updates as needed.

Update on U.S. Highway 385 Project

The U.S. Highway 385 reconstruction project is set to be paused by Wednesday, July 30, and will remain suspended until the day after the rally, which is Monday, August 11. During this time, there will be a hard surface on the road from Calumet Road to Horse Creek Road, with all lanes open to traffic.

According to the SDDOT, all driving surfaces will either be existing asphalt or a temporary hard surface. A 45 mph speed reduction will remain in place for the duration of the project. Travelers are reminded to reduce their speed and exercise caution when passing through any construction zones.

For more information, including frequently asked questions, visit the SDDOT Rally Traveler Information page. Drivers are encouraged to plan ahead and stay informed to ensure a safe and smooth journey during the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally.