News
Explore our latest news and insights about the Rushmore Region, where business opportunity meets regional vitality. Our articles illuminate economic development initiatives, industry trends, and community-based efforts across Butte, Meade, Lawrence, Pennington, Custer, Fall River, and the Rapid City area. Each story reflects the region’s momentum, from workforce development and infrastructure upgrades to investment opportunities and partnership successes. Read on to understand how the Rushmore Region is shaping growth, attracting talent, and delivering results for employers, entrepreneurs, and communities throughout western South Dakota.
News Articles
Governor approves extra city sales tax, cigar bars, more gambling tax revenue for Deadwood
Mar 20 2026South Dakota Republican Gov. Larry Rhoden signed three bills earlier this week that he said align with his “open for opportunity” economic development policy framework. The legislation includes shifting some gambling tax revenue from the state to a Black Hills city, permitting more cigar bars across the state, and allowing...
RAPID CITY, S.D. (KOTA) - The Douglas School District is moving ahead with plans for a new elementary school as it prepares for continued student enrollment growth tied to expansion at Ellsworth Air Force Base.District officials say the project will be supported in part by $42 million in federal funding...
DEADWOOD — The South Dakota Department of Transportation (DOT) has awarded more than $4 million in Bridge Improvement Grants to Lawrence and Meade counties, allowing the counties to collectively replace 3 structures.To listen to the full article click here »
EAGLE BUTTE, S.D. — When Nation Cowins first walked into the Cheyenne River Youth Project’s Cokata Wiconi (Center of Life) Teen Center at age 13, he was simply looking for something to do after school. What he found instead was a pathway.Today, Cowins — whose Lakota name is Sunkawakan Wakinyan...
The Lawrence County Community Foundation is opening applications for its 2026 Open Grant Cycle, offering more than $150,000 for local programs and projects, according to a community announcement.The cycle includes Boost, Impact and Pennington Grants, with $120,000 directing support to charitable programs that serve residents across Lawrence County.To read the...
Property taxes on owner‑occupied homes have climbed faster than inflation in most South Dakota counties over the past five years — including nearly every county West River — according to a KELOLAND News analysis of state revenue data.Midwest inflation rose 22.11% from 2019 to 2024, but taxes payable on owner‑occupied...