HOWES, S.D. (AP) — The major byway between Pierre and Sturgis has reopened after being closed for more than a month.

The major byway between Pierre and Sturgis has reopened after being closed for more than a month. The closure had forced drivers to take a 76-mile detour.

The South Dakota Department of Transportation in August closed the 2 ½-mile stretch of Highway 34 east of Howes to allow a contractor to repair erosion from heavy rains on dams for Howes Lake and Lake Buffalo.

Transportation officials tell KCCR-AM that although the road is open, drivers can still expect to find construction equipment and flaggers. The project is expected to be fully finished by Oct. 17.

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