Mitchell, SD (MITCHELLNOW) The Federal government is investing two billion dollars in the expansion of the Ellsworth Air Force Base. The base is about to become home to the new B-21 Raider Bomber fleet and 14,000 new Air Force personnel. The State of South Dakota and the communities surrounding the base are investing in housing stock and infrastructure projects, including a new fitness center for base personnel, in preparation for the expansion of the base and the influx of additional personnel.
The base expansion should add significantly to South Dakota’s economy, especially in the western portion of the state. The Legislature’s Executive Board has appointed an Ellsworth Task Force to help facilitate a smooth transition and a warm welcome for the new and improved Ellsworth Air Force Base and its personnel.