MITCHELL, S.D. (MITCHELLNOW) South Dakota’s Project Prison Reset Task Force met Tuesday in Springfield to explore alternative sites for a new state prison after legislative funding was denied for a previously proposed Lincoln County facility. Despite $51 million already spent or committed, the state is reevaluating its approach and potential locations, including Mitchell, where local feedback has been mixed. The proposed Mitchell site offers strong infrastructure access and an estimated cost of $2.8 million for 160 acres, making it one of the more detailed and cost-transparent proposals. However, community opposition and broader questions, like whether a new prison is even necessary and how large it should be, are still unresolved. The task force will review a consultant report before its next meeting on June 3, with final recommendations expected by July 22.
Mitchell Among Sites Considered as South Dakota Resets State Prison Plans
South Dakota’s Project Prison Reset Task Force is reassessing potential sites for a new state prison after plans for a Lincoln County facility were halted due to funding issues. With $51 million already invested, locations like Mitchell—offering strong infrastructure and cost transparency—are under consideration despite mixed public response.
