Project
BIA Route 33, in Oglala Lakota County, South Dakota, serves as a key collector route linking Rockyford and Manderson on the Pine Ridge Indian Reservation, one of the poorest regions in the U.S. This route is crucial for providing access to essential services such as healthcare, education, employment, and childcare in this economically challenged and rural area. These roads have historically suffered from issues like poor paving, inadequate drainage, and damage from severe weather conditions. Despite its importance, the Tribe receives inadequate funding to keep up with the transportation needs across the Reservation.
Solution
KLJ partnered with the Oglala Sioux Tribe Department of Transportation to secure a $60 million grant for the critical infrastructure project. The project, will focus on reconstructing 26.4 miles of roadway from Rockyford to Red Cloud, SD. The improvements planned include widening ditches to promote flood and snow storage, enlarging culverts to withstand recurring flood events, and strengthening road surfaces with advanced materials for better resilience.
Result
With KLJ's assistance in planning, engineering, and grant writing, the project secured funding through President Biden's "Investing in America" infrastructure initiative. This initiative aims to bring the roadways up to Federal Highway Administration standards, improving transportation reliability, reducing travel time, strengthening the regional economy, increasing employment opportunities, and enhancing overall community connectivity and sustainability.
