South Dakotans Shaping the Future of Transportation

Public engagement is at the heart of effective transportation planning, and at the South Dakota Department of Transportation (SDDOT), the voices of residents, businesses, community leaders, and travelers help shape the system used every day across the state. As South Dakota prepares for the Tentative 2027–2030 Statewide Transportation Improvement Program (STIP), SDDOT is inviting South Dakotans to lean, participate, and help guide future investments.

The STIP outlines planned highway and intermodal projects aimed at preserving, enhancing, and improving transportation infrastructure statewide. It is much more than a list of projects. It reflects long‑term commitments to safety, mobility, economic growth, and quality of life for communities across South Dakota.

Why Public Input Matters

Engagement from residents and stakeholders offers valuable insight into local priorities, challenges, and opportunities. From freight partners and local governments to everyday travelers, public perspectives help SDDOT:

• Understand community needs more fully.

• Strengthen decision‑making through local knowledge.

• Ensure transportation investments align with the needs of the people who rely on the system.

• Navigate funding limitations with clearer awareness of on‑the‑ground concerns.

This inclusive approach supports a transportation system that serves today’s needs while preparing for future challenges.

Expanding Ways to Participate

To make participation easier and more accessible, SDDOT continues to offer its innovative virtual STIP meeting room alongside traditional in‑person and Zoom meetings. The virtual room allows users to explore project maps, review planning documents, and provide feedback at their convenience. This helps to eliminate barriers such as travel time, location constraints, or schedule conflicts.

Visitors to the virtual room can:

• View project information and proposed improvements.

• Understand project schedules and planning processes.

• Submit feedback whenever it works best for them.

• Stay informed throughout the entire STIP process.

 This flexible, interactive format helps ensure more South Dakotans can take part in shaping transportation priorities.

Your Voice Makes a Difference

The strength of South Dakota’s transportation system depends on meaningful collaboration between SDDOT and the people it serves. By listening, engaging, and offering multiple ways for the public to participate, SDDOT is committed to planning a system that’s safe, reliable, and responsive to evolving needs.

Everyone who uses South Dakota’s roads, bridges, and travel networks has a stake in this process. SDDOT encourages residents and stakeholders to participate in the 2027-2030 Tentative STIP meetings and learn more about upcoming and long‑term projects.

Explore the 2027-2030 Tentative STIP and upcoming participation opportunities here:

• 2027-2030 Tentative STIP Page:
  https://dot.sd.gov/projects-studies/planning/tentative-statewide-transportation-improvement-program-stip