PIERRE, S.D. — Two rail projects in South Dakota will receive almost $2.4 million in funding under the federal Special Transportation Circumstances program, state Transportation Secretary Joel Jundt announced.
The Ringneck & Western Railroad will receive up to $1.799 million for a project near Plankinton, S.D., while the Rapid City, Pierre & Eastern Railroad will receive up to $800,000 for work on its 163-mile main line between Fort Pierre and Rapid City.
“The selected projects are key to providing economic growth and increasing safety and efficiency for rail services across South Dakota,” Jundt said in a press release, “and we appreciate Congress’ continued support in funding this important federal program.”
The Ringneck & Western project involves construction of two 1,500-foot tracks for transloading of lumber and aggregate; a 558-foot industrial lead track; a concrete maintenance pit in an existing locomotive shop building; and a loadout spur, six turnouts, and a roadway for access. The railroad will provide a 40% fund match.
The work on the RCP&E’s Pierre-Rapid City Subdivision will upgrade or install eight culverts to improve the ability to withstand stormwater flows. The railroad will provide a 20% match.
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