By: TrueNorth Steel
A Fast-Acting Solution to Severe Flood Damage
In June 2024, torrential rainfall swept across southeastern South Dakota, forcing the state’s Department of Transportation to issue a No Travel Advisory on every highway in the region. Among the hardest-hit areas was Turner County, where floodwaters completely washed out a vital roadway connecting Sioux Falls and Parker. This road serves as a key commuter route and a lifeline for local residents and emergency services. When the existing culvert failed under the pressure of the storm, the situation demanded an immediate, durable replacement.
To restore access quickly and safely, county officials turned to TrueNorth Steel, a trusted expert in corrugated steel culvert fabrication and installation. The corrugated steel culvert solution offered a combination of strength, reliability, and speed—key factors when disaster strikes and communities need immediate infrastructure repair.
Engineering Strength Under Pressure
When Turner County requested emergency drainage support, TrueNorth Steel’s Huron, SD team jumped into action. Within hours, fabrication began on three 54-inch arched, 12-gauge 5×1 galvanized steel culverts, each 60 feet long. Despite challenging weather and unstable ground conditions, the team completed fabrication, arching, and delivery in just a day and a half.
The culverts arrived onsite on June 25, and by the following day, the roadway reopened to motorists—demonstrating how corrugated steel culverts deliver unmatched dependability and efficiency during emergency recovery operations. Their quick response not only reconnected communities but also prevented further roadway damage from prolonged flooding.
Why Steel Stands the Test of Time
Corrugated steel pipe remains the material of choice for emergency drainage solutions because it combines rapid installation with long-term resilience. Its inherent strength and durability help communities bounce back faster after severe weather events. Turner County’s rapid reopening highlights how corrugated steel culverts can restore infrastructure quickly while ensuring decades of reliable performance.
By selecting a galvanized steel system, county engineers also gained superior corrosion resistance—protecting the investment well into the future.
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