By: TrueNorth Steel
A Fast-Acting Solution to Severe Flood Damage
In June 2024, historic rainfall swept across southeastern South Dakota, overwhelming roads, bridges, and drainage infrastructure throughout the region. Conditions became so severe that the South Dakota Department of Transportation issued a No Travel Advisory on every highway in the area.
Among the hardest-hit locations was Turner County, where floodwaters washed out a critical roadway connecting Sioux Falls and Parker. The route serves as an important commuter corridor and provides access for local residents, businesses, and emergency responders.
When the existing culvert failed during the storm, roadway repair and restoring access quickly became top priorities. County officials turned to TrueNorth Steel for a rapid replacement solution. The corrugated steel culvert system offered the strength, durability, and speed needed to restore access as quickly as possible. Engineers evaluating similar emergency roadway repairs can access NCSPA’s Technical Resources and Design Data Sheets for additional design guidance and installation information.
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 had reopened to traffic. The rapid response demonstrated how corrugated steel culverts can help communities recover quickly from severe weather events. The project not only restored a critical transportation link but also accelerated flood recovery efforts while preventing additional roadway damage caused by prolonged flooding. Design professionals can also review NCSPA’s Design Data Sheets for additional information on corrugated steel culvert applications, while NCSPA’s Service Life Calculator can help evaluate long-term performance.
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 support flood recovery, complete critical roadway repair projects, and ensure decades of reliable performance.
By selecting a galvanized steel system, county engineers also gained superior corrosion resistance, protecting the investment from roadway damage well into the future. Long-term durability can be evaluated using NCSPA’s Service Life Calculator and additional research available through NCSPA’s Studies & Reports.
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