DEADWOOD, S.D. – Drivers traveling near Deadwood should prepare for delays on Wednesday afternoon as crews conduct rock excavation blasting on U.S. Highway 14A.
The South Dakota Department of Transportation announced that the blasting is scheduled for the afternoon of Dec. 17 approximately four miles east of Deadwood. The operation is part of a backslope repair project aimed at reducing the steep slope adjacent to the road near Camp 5 Road to mitigate landslide risks.
During the blast, flaggers will stop traffic at a safe distance from the work zone. Vehicles will remain in a holding pattern until the blaster gives the all-clear signal and crews remove any debris from the roadway. Officials stated that traffic will reopen by the end of the day, though travelers are encouraged to use alternate routes during the operation.
Currently, Wednesday is the only day scheduled for blasting, though future blasts may be planned if necessary.
The $1.5 million project is being led by prime contractor DRM, Inc. of Rapid City, South Dakota. Century Blasting Service LLC of Piedmont is performing the blasting work.
The overall project is expected to be completed by June 2026.
For the latest updates on road conditions, travelers can visit sd511.org or dial 511.
