Committee approves RFP to study relocation of downtown rail switching yard

The Rapid City committee voted to approve a request for proposals to study relocating the downtown rail switching (switching) yard, a move staff says could reduce traffic delays, horn noise and vehicle idling in southeast Rapid City.

Vicky from Community Development introduced the item and Kip Harrington, the city's transportation coordinator, told the committee the study grew out of the 2022 Campbell Street structure study and will evaluate possible new locations for switching operations that could improve traffic flow and train movement. Kip said the study team will consult South Dakota Department of Transportation and the Federal Railroad Administration as well as the railroad.

Harrington said the railroad has indicated support for moving switching operations but “they don't wanna pay for it,” a constraint that staff said will mean the study must identify funding options, including federal grants and other partners. The presentation highlighted operational causes of delays—trains reversing at Pressler Junction—and identified potential benefits including fewer traffic blockages on Saint Patrick Street and lower local emissions.

The committee voted by voice to approve the RFP. No dollar figure for study design or the RFP contract was stated in the transcript; staff said moving a switching operation could vary widely in cost depending on track work and the extent of relocation.

Next steps: staff will issue the RFP and return to the committee with recommendations from prospective consultants; the study will examine technical feasibility, right-of-way and funding approaches.