158
SD SENATE BILL
In the Great Lakes Region, South Dakota receives the lowest overall amount of federal funds. Infrastructure is not currently keeping pace to maintain airport facilities.
Currently, South Dakota airports in the state have some considerable needs for pavement maintenance, building improvements, and safety equipment. For pavement maintenance alone, $44.4 million annually is needed for the next decade. That is $15 million more, on average, than what is spent annually today. This does not include necessary equipment, buildings and other projects.
This bill would appropriate $20 million to be used for projects that are safety related, equipment for mowing or snow removal and pavement rehabilitation and construction for runways, taxiways, and arrival and departure buildings (terminals). The funding would go to the Department of Transportation.
Cost Saving
When pavement deteriorates, the cost of
rehabilitation varies. Maintaining and preserving
a pavement in good condition vs. rehabilitating
pavement in fair to poor condition is
four to five times less expensive and increases
pavement useful life.
Positive Partnership
This funding demonstrates ongoing state participation, prompting attention from the Federal Aviation Administration.
North Dakota implemented a similar program with great success for every $1 the State is spending they are receiving $3 in return in Federal Funds.
Who Supports this Bill?
Rapid City Regional Airport
Sioux Falls Regional Airport
South Dakota Airport Managers Association
South Dakota Visitor Industry Alliance
Sponsors:
Senator Jack Kolbeck
Senator David Johnson
Who Benefits?
South Dakota has 55 publicly-owned airports which equates to 57,830,727 square feet of pavement. Funding will be distributed by the Department of Transportation based upon urgency and impact of the project.
How is need assessed?
South Dakota Department of Transportation conducts a Pavement Condition Index every three years.
The PCI rates the surface condition of pavement on a 0-100 scale.
The SD Commercial Service Airports are only considered in fair condition, indicating immediate action.