A groundbreaking infrastructure initiative, the Connecting Neighbors Regional Waterline Project, is set to transform water access for Mitchell and Davison County, in South Dakota. Construction is scheduled to begin in spring 2025, informs the Mitchell Republic. This $105 million effort, led by the Randall Community Water District (RCWD), aims to provide clean, reliable drinking water to current customers while expanding service to surrounding communities in southeastern South Dakota.
The project involves the construction of a 72-mile high-capacity water transmission line from the Missouri River to southeastern South Dakota, as well as significant upgrades to the Platte Treatment Plant. These upgrades will include enhanced treatment facilities, additional water storage, and advanced pumping infrastructure to ensure reliability and improved service. Work is expected to take approximately three years to complete.
Water demand growth, redundancy, and drought resilience are key drivers of the project. Local studies have shown that existing water supplies cannot meet future demands. For Mitchell, where the current system frequently exceeds its capacity, the pipeline offers a critical secondary water source, delivering up to 5 million gallons per day. This enhanced capacity not only addresses immediate needs but also positions Mitchell and surrounding areas for sustainable growth and resilience against water shortages.
In addition to serving Mitchell, the pipeline is designed to provide increased capacity for the Aurora-Brule Rural Water System and the Davison Rural Water System, ensuring these rural areas also benefit from improved water access.
“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,” said Scott Pick, RCWD General Manager.
Funding includes $21.2 million from the American Rescue Plan Act, with the remainder financed through a low-interest State Revolving Fund loan. As a transformative regional solution, the Randall Regional Waterline Project sets a new standard for large-scale water infrastructure, offering a reliable, long-term water supply while promoting sustainable development in South Dakota.