This award funds project development, final design, and construction activities to replace approximately 11.84 miles of worn-out legacy jointed main line rail with 115LB continuously welded rail and…

The Department of Transportation Federal Railroad Administration awarded the State of South Dakota Department of Transportation $12,446,558 on December 1, 2025, under the Consolidated Rail Infrastructure and Safety Improvements Program – Special Transportation Circumstances (CFDA 20.338) to replace approximately 11.84 miles of worn-out legacy jointed main line rail with 115-pound continuously welded rail and required componentry, and to upgrade approximately 17 at-grade rail crossings in South Dakota. The project will improve railroad safety, efficiency, capacity, and reliability on a railroad critical to the local economy and will benefit the public, existing businesses, and new businesses. Work is performed in South Dakota with a period of performance through September 30, 2028. The assistance type is a Project Grant, with funding obligated as reimbursement upon achievement of milestones. Everist L.G., Inc. serves as a sub-recipient delivering components of the project, with a sub-award dated December 2, 2025.

This award funds project development, final design, and construction activities to replace approximately 11.84 miles of worn-out legacy jointed main line rail with 115LB continuously welded rail and required componentry as well as upgrade approximately 17 at-grade rail crossings. This will improve railroad safety, efficiency, capacity, and reliability on a railroad that is critical to success of the local economy. Beneficiaries include the public, existing businesses, and new businesses.