Gov. Rhoden Strengthens Box Elder's Infrastructure

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

October 6, 2026

Contact: Josie Harms

Gov. Rhoden Strengthens Box Elder's Infrastructure

PIERRE, S.D. - Today, Governor Larry Rhoden strengthened Box Elder's infrastructure by cutting the ribbon on Bennett Road Bridge, which was funded by a Bridge Improvement Grant (BIG) from the South Dakota Department of Transportation. You can find a photo from the ribbon cutting here.

"South Dakota is Open for Opportunity. And as our state continues to grow, we need strong infrastructure to support that growth," said Governor Larry Rhoden. "Roads and bridges connect South Dakotans to their homes, jobs, schools, and communities. This investment is a great example of putting state resources to work in a responsible, sustainable way. And it will make it possible for Box Elder to keep moving forward."

Box Elder is one of the fastest-growing communities in South Dakota. In 2010, about 7,800 people called Box Elder home. Today, that population has nearly doubled! Bennett Road Bridge will play a key role in supporting the community's continued growth.

During his tenure, Governor Rhoden has made several other investments in Box Elder's infrastructure, including signing SB 130, which provides $8 million to repair roads that have been impacted by the expansion of Ellsworth Air Force Base. Last year, he also approved a zero-interest loan to the Douglas School District to help the school keep up with the tremendous growth happening in the community.

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