Reconstruction of S.D. Highway 73 from the junction of U.S. Highway 18 north to the Bennett County line is fully under way, and recent rains have caused closures of the roadway.

The Department of Transportation has had to close that portion of the highway due to muddy, slippery conditions making driving impossible.

According to DOT officials, during times of adverse weather, it is best to check if the highway is open rather than assume it might be open.

The information will be posted as soon as possible on the 511 Traveler Information System. To access the system, dial 511 from any phone or go online to www.SafeTravelUSA.com.

Several signs have also been placed at various locations leading to Highway 73.

These signs are intended to forewarn motorists that major reconstruction is ongoing and motorists are advised to take alternate state highway routes if at all possible.

These signs are at milepost 151 and 207 on Highway 18.

They are located at mileposts 155 and 197 on S.D. Highway 44, as well as mileposts 51.5 and 70.0 on S.D. Highway 73.

During times when the portion of S.D. Highway 73 being reconstructed is closed, a placard reading "closed" will be placed on each of these signs.

Changeable message boards will also display similar messages.