Project Update: Monday, April 28, 2025
Phase 1 Surfacing Work Scheduled to begin Monday, April 21, 2025
On April 21, 2025, preparation for permanent surfacing will begin in the Phase 1 construction area of U.S. Highway 385 between Pactola Dam and the Pennington-Lawrence County line. Preparation for surfacing will involve the use of large construction equipment, loose gravel road surfacing, and narrowed driving lanes.
Starting the week of Monday, April 28, 2025, final asphalt paving will begin in the Phase 1 construction area. Placement of final surfacing will start at Pactola Dam and work north towards the Pennington-Lawrence County line. Traffic impacts at this time include temporary lane closures, the use of large construction equipment, loose gravel road surface, narrowed driving lanes, and wet paint. Additionally, the contractor will use pilot cars and flaggers as needed with delays of up to 15 minutes. Phase 1 surfacing is expected to be completed by Tuesday, July 15, 2025.
To avoid travel delays, consider using an alternate route. The recommended detour is S.D. Highway 44 and U.S. Highway 16.
To subscribe to the free text-in service and receive updates on major traffic changes, simply text “US385” to 605-566-4041. Subscribers can unsubscribe at any time.
Highway 385 Construction – The South Dakota Department of Transportation (SDDOT) is reconstructing a portion of U.S. Highway 385 between the Pennington-Lawrence county line and the south end of Sheridan Lake. Once completed, this section of U.S. Highway 385 will feature safety improvements, including wider shoulders on each side of the road where possible, improved road curves to meet current design standards, additional turning lanes to improve traffic flow, and new surfacing. Learn more about 385 construction below.
Alternative Routes
Don’t let something as common place as road construction derail your vacation! Highway 385 is a popular route between Deadwood and the central and southern Black Hills. However, many other options are available that add minimal travel time to your itinerary while offering scenic overlooks and historic points of interest along the way. The map below details some of these hidden gems. Other suggested options on your “Route Reimagined” are available through Black Hills and Badlands Tourism Association.
Visit www.us-385.com for detailed construction timelines and detour information. The SDDOT releases road condition updates regularly HERE.
Businesses are open on 385 – Click for more information
Tomahawk Country Club
Deadwood Outdoor Rentals
Steel Wheel Campground & Trading Post
Fish N Fry Campground
Mystic Hills Hideaway – Cabins, Camping and UTV Rentals
Custer Crossing Family Campground
385 Construction Alternative Routes Map
