Undertake planning activities and will involve a comprehensive and data-driven study of 130 at-grade railroad crossings within the sioux falls metropolitan planning area, spanning portions of…

The Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) awarded the State of South Dakota Department of Transportation $1.25 million under the Railroad Crossing Elimination (RCE) Program (CFDA 20.327) on July 1, 2025, for planning activities focused on improving railroad crossing safety in the Sioux Falls metropolitan area. The project will conduct a comprehensive, data-driven study of 130 at-grade railroad crossings located in Lincoln and Minnehaha Counties, South Dakota, with completion targeted for February 29, 2028. This planning effort will identify and prioritize crossings requiring safety improvements to address congestion and safety concerns resulting from increased population growth and the intersection of multiple rail lines with city infrastructure.

The project will directly benefit railroad companies, emergency responders, and the broader community, including residents, commuters, pedestrians, and cyclists. Through the planning phase, the recipient will develop actionable recommendations that can inform subsequent improvement projects such as grade separation, closure, track relocation, or installation of protective devices and safety measures—all eligible activities under the RCE Program. This planning investment positions the Sioux Falls region to effectively compete for and implement comprehensive railroad crossing improvements that enhance transportation safety and mobility across the metropolitan area.

Undertake planning activities and will involve a comprehensive and data-driven study of 130 at-grade railroad crossings within the sioux falls metropolitan planning area, spanning portions of lincoln and minnehaha counties in south dakota. Given the increasing population in the sioux falls area and the numerous rail crossings intersecting the city, IT is essential for the recipient and other stakeholders to identify and prioritize crossings that require safety improvements. Beneficiaries of the project include railroad companies, emergency responders, and the broader community (residents, commuters, pedestrians, and cyclists).