U.S. Department of Commerce Invests $1.9 Million in American Rescue Plan Funds to Improve the Tatanka Trail and Boost Tourism in Fort Pierre, South Dakota

WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Secretary of Commerce Gina M. Raimondo announced that the Department’s Economic Development Administration (EDA) is awarding a $1.9 million grant to the city of Fort Pierre, South Dakota, for make improvements and establish amenities on the Tatanka Trail. This grant is funded by the American Rescue Plan.

This project will construct a pedestrian bridge, outdoor visitor plaza, recreational trail, and outdoor exhibits, boosting outdoor recreation and local tourism and bringing new visitors to the community. This EDA grant will be matched with $513,000 in local funds and is expected to create 50 jobs and generate $37 million in private investment, according to grantee estimates.

“President Biden recognizes the vital contribution the travel and tourism industry makes to the American economy,” said Secretary of Commerce Gina M. Raimondo. “This project will create new outdoor recreational opportunities and tourist amenities on the Tatanka Trail, attracting visitors to the town, its restaurants, and local businesses.”

“The travel, tourism and outdoor recreation sector is a critical economic driver for many communities and the Economic Development Administration is pleased to support community-led development strategies,” said Assistant Secretary of Commerce for Economic Development Alejandra Y. Castillo. “This EDA investment will provide new outdoor recreational attractions that Fort Pierre needs to support local businesses and increase tourism in the community.”

This project was made possible by the regional planning efforts led by the Central South Dakota Enhancement District (CSDED). EDA funds CSDED to bring together the public and private sectors to create an economic development roadmap to strengthen the regional economy, support private capital investment and create jobs.

This project is funded under EDA’s $240 million competitive American Rescue Plan Travel, Tourism, and Outdoor Recreation program. EDA awarded $510 million in 2021 to all 50 states and territories. The two programs are designed to accelerate the recovery of communities that rely on the travel, tourism and outdoor recreation sectors. Effective May 26, 2022, EDA has officially closed all of its American Rescue Plan programs for applications. The $3 billion program funding will be awarded on a rolling basis through September 30, 2022.

About the U.S. Economic Development Administration (www.eda.gov)
The mission of the U.S. Economic Development Administration (EDA) is to lead the federal economic development agenda by promoting competitiveness and preparing the nation’s regions for growth and success in the worldwide economy. An agency within the U.S. Department of Commerce, EDA invests in communities and supports regional collaboration in order to create jobs for U.S. workers, promote American innovation, and accelerate long-term sustainable economic growth.