Senator John Thune’s 2025 Congressionally Directed Spending Requests include aviation-related projects across South Dakota. If approved, the following projects will receive funding:
Rapid City Regional Airport Terminal Expansion
Rapid City Regional Airport will receive $10 million for the expansion of its ticketing area, baggage handling system, and security checkpoint. These upgrades address areas that have not been improved since the creation of TSA.
The baggage handling system renovation improves operations and enhances the safety of back-of-house employees. The security checkpoint expansion will relieve congestion during peak travel seasons—nearly 70% of annual traffic utilizes the airport during summer months, contributing to congestion. Additional ticket counter space will allow flexibility for airline operations. These updates are important for improving efficiency and passenger experience at the airport, which has seen a steady increase in traffic (+30% since 2014).
Sioux Falls Regional Airport Expansion
Sioux Falls Regional Airport is another beneficiary of Thune’s funding request, with $20 million allocated for a large terminal expansion project. This funding will expand the concourse area, add five new aircraft gates, and expand the undersized passenger holding areas. The additional gates will allow the airport to handle more flights and passengers, making it more competitive and attractive to airlines and travelers.
Box Elder and Ellsworth AFB Community
Thune also requested a $4 million allocation for the City of Box Elder. This funding will address road infrastructure along HWY 14/16 and Radar Hill Rd. This corridor is important for the area surrounding Ellsworth Air Force Base, which is in the process of welcoming the new B-21 Raider mission.
A Positive Impact on South Dakota’s Future
The funding requests put forth by Senator Thune for 2025 are a welcome development for South Dakota. These efforts represent a proactive approach to addressing the state’s infrastructure needs, particularly in the critical areas of aviation and transportation.
Author – Megan Johnson | 8/23/2024
