A game-changing water pipeline project is poised to significantly enhance water access and quality in South Dakota, with the Connecting Neighbors Regional Waterline Project expected to break ground in spring 2025. Led by the Randall Community Water District (RCWD), the $105 million project will connect Mitchell and other southeastern South Dakota communities to a reliable and sustainable water source from the Missouri River. This ambitious initiative is being driven by the need for greater water supply capacity, drought resilience, and redundancy to meet growing demand in the region, according to a report from the Mitchell Republic.

The project encompasses the construction of a 72-mile high-capacity water transmission pipeline, which will provide water to Mitchell and several neighboring rural systems. In addition to the new waterline, the Platte Treatment Plant will undergo a major overhaul to improve water treatment processes, expand storage capabilities, and modernize the pumping infrastructure. These upgrades are designed to ensure long-term service reliability and meet future water demands. The expected timeline for the project’s completion is approximately three years.

One of the key motivations behind this project is the growing demand for water in Mitchell, where the current water system often operates beyond its capacity. The new pipeline will provide a secondary water supply capable of delivering up to 5 million gallons per day. This additional capacity will help mitigate water shortages and position the city for future growth. Furthermore, the pipeline will extend benefits to the Aurora-Brule Rural Water System and the Davison Rural Water System, providing access to a more dependable and higher-quality water supply for rural areas that face challenges related to water scarcity.

Scott Pick, General Manager of RCWD, expressed the significance of this project by reflecting on the long history of water infrastructure development in the region: “Half a century ago, our rural water pioneers had the vision to bring clean water across South Dakota. Today, we face a similar challenge. Communities need water, and RCWD is honored to be part of this legacy project. By building water infrastructure now, we’re securing a brighter future for the region and generations to come.”

The project has garnered financial support from both state and federal sources. It will receive $21.2 million from the American Rescue Plan Act, while the remainder of the project will be financed through a low-interest State Revolving Fund loan. This funding structure ensures that the project remains affordable for the region while providing the long-term benefits of modern, sustainable water infrastructure.

With construction scheduled to begin in 2025, the Connecting Neighbors Regional Waterline Project sets a new precedent for large-scale water infrastructure in South Dakota, marking a pivotal step toward addressing the state's water challenges. By enhancing the availability and sustainability of water supplies, this project will not only meet immediate needs but also support the growth and resilience of Mitchell and its surrounding communities for decades to come.