Community Access Grants
Forecasted
Community Access Grants support small South Dakota towns in constructing or reconstructing major local streets that connect schools, businesses, and other essential destinations to strengthen community access.
Funder: South Dakota Department of Transportation
Due Dates (Anticipated): July 2027 (annual application deadline)
Funding Amounts: Up to $600,000; reimbursement of 80% of eligible construction costs
Summary: Supports construction or reconstruction of major streets serving essential destinations in South Dakota towns with fewer than 5,000 residents.
Key Information: A local government must submit the application and commit to maintaining the completed road.
Description
Community Access Grants are part of the South Dakota Department of Transportation’s Transportation Economic Development Grants program. They help small towns improve important local roads, including Main Street and routes to schools, hospitals, grain elevators, downtown businesses, and other significant community destinations. The broader program aims to foster economic development and enhance community access across South Dakota.
Funding is for construction or reconstruction, not routine maintenance. The Office of Local Government Assistance ranks Community Access applications, and the South Dakota Transportation Commission makes the final funding decision. Past awards have supported streets serving a farmers’ cooperative, grain elevators, schools, and main business districts.
