City Announces Cliff Ave., I-229 Update, Back-to-School Reminders

Published on August 13, 2025

The City of Sioux Falls, in partnership with the South Dakota Department of Transportation, announced today that Cliff Avenue at the Interstate 229 interchange will be open to traffic beginning early in the morning of Thursday, August 21. Cliff Avenue will be open to one lane of traffic in each direction ahead of the new school year, but the area will still be an active construction zone.

“We know closing Cliff Avenue had a big impact on drivers, bicyclists, and pedestrians, and we appreciate everyone’s patience this summer,” said Andy Berg, City Engineer. “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 over the past two months.”

While the project is still under construction, there are a few key details drivers and other commuters should be aware of, especially for those traveling to and from Lincoln High School:

• Cliff Avenue will be open to one lane of traffic in each direction through the I-229 interchange on Thursday, August 21
• 41st Street will be open from Minnesota Avenue to Cliff Avenue on Thursday, August 21
• Pedestrian access is open along the east side of Cliff Avenue, through the interchange
• A temporary traffic signal is located at Cliff Avenue and 41st Street
• A temporary pedestrian signal is located at Cliff Avenue north of 38th Street
• I-229 remains under construction: The southbound on- and off-ramps remain closed, and the northbound on- and off-ramps remain open
• All access points to Lincoln High School will be open

Drivers, pedestrians, and other commuters in the area should be aware it is still an active construction zone and to expect delays. Drivers who do not need to visit Lincoln High School should continue taking alternate routes.

As school districts welcome back students and staff, the City has the following reminders for the community:

• Follow the speed limit, especially in school zones
• Pay attention and put your phone down—watch for children and other pedestrians at crosswalks
• Prepare for an extra 10-15 minutes to get to your destination on time
• Use alternate routes where possible

“Street construction season is still in full swing in Sioux Falls,” Berg said. “Drivers especially have a responsibility in school zones to slow down and look out for children and other pedestrians. Let’s get everyone where they need to go safely this school year.”

Image credit: City of Sioux Falls

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