Drivers in Elkhart will need to find another route around the Oakland Avenue Underpass beginning Tuesday, Aug. 4.

The underpass will close to all traffic through October as crews work on the city’s federally mandated sewer separation project.

The work is part of a larger infrastructure project that has affected Oakland Avenue north of the underpass for much of 2026. The project is designed to separate stormwater from sanitary sewer systems, reducing the potential for sewage overflows into local waterways during periods of heavy rain.

City Public Works Director Jeff Schaffer said crews need to excavate the entire underpass to complete the upgrades. He acknowledged the closure will create inconvenience for drivers but said the work is necessary to improve the city’s wastewater system and protect local waterways.

Drivers are encouraged to use the Nappanee Street Underpass, Benham Avenue Underpass or Prairie Street Overpass as alternate routes.

Local access will remain available where possible, but vehicles will not be allowed to travel through the Oakland Avenue Underpass during construction.