South Dakota’s Project Prison Reset task force is eyeing two promising locations for a new state men’s prison—one near Box Elder and another in northeast Sioux Falls. The Box Elder site lies along Highway 14-16 near I-90, while the Sioux Falls option spans 137 acres between North Bahnson Avenue and I-229. State Senator Jamie Smith says the Sioux Falls site “checks a lot of boxes.”
Construction is set to begin soon on a major concourse expansion at Sioux Falls Regional Airport, following the Airport Authority Board’s approval of bids for the first phase. The project includes new concourses and apron work around the terminal. Airport CEO Dan Letellier said bid results came in better than expected, offering a promising start.
Plans for a potential downtown convention center in Sioux Falls are gaining momentum, with early cost estimates ranging from $225 to $250 million. The Riverline Steering Committee met this week to review a consultant’s report outlining the project’s scope, funding options, and economic benefits.
A proposed $650 million state prison near Mitchell sparked heated debate at a packed community forum Tuesday night. More than 175 residents turned out to voice concerns about safety, reentry programs, and the project’s impact on the community. Opponents, like MiKayla Johnson, criticized the lack of public input, while supporters such as State Rep. Jeff Bathke pointed to potential economic benefits.
Major upgrades are on the way for Mitchell’s iconic Corn Palace. After years of planning, the venue’s aging seats will be replaced following this year’s Corn Palace Festival. Mitchell Public Works Director Joe Schroeder says the $567,000 renovation includes 1,538 new seats, padded seating, and ADA-compliant handrails—all slated for completion before Dakota Wesleyan University’s basketball season in late October.
The Minnehaha County Sheriff’s Office is set to deploy license plate reader cameras to enhance public safety and aid in criminal investigations. Captain Joe Bosman told county commissioners the technology will help locate fugitives and track suspicious vehicles.
Despite falling short on state and federal funding, the Sioux Falls Airport Authority is pressing ahead with major expansion plans. The Board is reviewing bids to begin construction on a new concourse addition, addressing record-breaking passenger traffic.
South Dakota’s Property Tax Task Force is back in session, aiming to address rising property taxes across the state. Lawmakers gathered in Sioux Falls this week to review how property taxes fund local governments and to explore potential reforms.
South Dakota Trade is rapidly making its mark by generating millions in international business deals through global trade missions. The organization’s latest success came from a recent mission to Israel, with more opportunities ahead.
Planning is officially underway for the Mount Rushmore Fireworks show in 2026 in celebration of America’s 250th birthday. Governor Larry Rhoden and U.S. Secretary of Interior Doug Burgum have signed a Memorandum of Agreement to move forward with the planning. For more Government stories from