In the past two months (Nov.-Dec.- 2024), the South Dakota Transportation Commission has awarded approximately $4 million in economic development grants for infrastructure improvements to communities across the state. South Dakota Department of Transportation Secretary Joel Jundt says the funds are designated to improve roads leading to schools, main business areas, hospitals, grain elevators and other economic areas within a community. He says the grants may cover 80% of the construction costs for a project, up to a maximum of $600,000. Eagle Butte was given a grant for $600,000 for Landmark Avenue, which serves a business area. Winner also received a $600,000 grant award for Monroe and Van Buren Streets, which serve a business area. Community Access Grants awarded by the Transportation Commission last month (Nov. 26, 2024) are: City of Elkton – $430,000 grant award for Elk Street which serves a business area; City of Lennox – $600,000 grant award for East Oriole Avenue which serves the middle and high schools and a business area; and City of Springfield – $600,000 grant award for 11th, Ash, and Oak Streets which serve the school area. Agri-Business Grants awarded by the Transportation Commission this month (Dec. 19, 2024) are: Blom Township – $450,000 grant award for 190th Street which serves the Wildrose Dairy; Clay County – $600,000 grant award for 313th Street which serves the Southeast Farmers Coop; and Hamlin County – $132,500 grant award for 459th Street which serves County Line Dairy. Jundt says these economic development grants are a core component of financial assistance the SDDOT provides local governments to improve infrastructure. He says by awarding the grant dollars, many rural communities are able to further advance economic development for their residents. Find economic development grant program information and the application process on the SDDOT website or by contacting Paula Huizenga, Grants Program Engineer, at 605-773-6253.