STURGIS, S.D. – The Sturgis Council this week authorized a professional services agreement with Avid4 Engineering for utility work to be completed on Lazelle Street ahead of its major reconstruction. Sturgis Public Works Director Rick Bush says while the state D.O.T. is handling the reconstruction and widening of Lazelle, also known as State Highway 34, the city will be responsible for developing a separate utility reconstruction plan. “As a part of this roadway widening, several existing city utilities, which are primarily water, conflict with the proposed improvements. These conflicts will require that water service curb stops be lowered, fire hydrants be relocated, valving be relocated along the property or along the project. It is the city’s responsibility for developing its own utility and reconstruction plans that will be incorporated into and coordinated with the DOT’s roadway construction project.” Bush says the agreement covers engineering design and related professional service only. He says the actual construction costs associated with relocating or reconstructing city utilities will be determined as the design progresses and will be presented for future budget consideration. “By taking this proactive approach, we can minimize future conflicts, reduce disruptions to our water customers, and potentially take advantage of the roadway reconstruction to address this aging infrastructure,” Bush says. Bush says the funding source will come from the appropriate city utility funds and the Capital Improvement fund. The D.O.T. is planning to start work on the highway in 2030. Share via: Facebook Twitter LinkedIn More