STURGIS, S.D.(KBHB) – The Sturgis City Council got an update from J.E.O. Consulting Group Monday night on the Junction Avenue Corridor Project.

The study is focusing potential near-and-long term improvements on the 1.1-mile portion of Junction Avenue from Harmon Street on the north, to Pine View Drive on the south.

The group informed the council on several high priority projects within the study area – including the Anna Street intersection.

The firm says the misalignment with the Anna Street Intersection contributes to non-standard turning patterns and results in the potential for crashes.

Other high priority projects as addressed by the consulting firm include Americans with Disabilities Act deficiencies and the current location of the Welcome to Sturgis Sign due to it’s proximity to Junction Avenue at Anna Street.

The firm is expecting to put together a final report for the city.

Because Junction Avenue is not maintained by the South Dakota Department of Transportation, any improvements approved would need to be funded by the city.

The city can apply for grants to help, although they are highly competitive.

In a separate construction-related matter, the council approved and authorized the mayor to sign the paperwork accepting a $384,100 Local Bridge Improvement Grant to upgrade a bridge on the Whitewood Service Road. Work on the bridge will commence next year.