Deuel and Grant Counties Secure Critical Funding in Statewide Bridge Improvement Grant Awards

Deuel and Grant Counties receive vital funding for bridge improvements, with construction slated to begin in 2026, thanks to the South Dakota Transportation Commission's support.

Northeast Radio SD News – Deuel County/Grant County, SD - Local infrastructure is set for a significant boost following the South Dakota Transportation Commission’s February meeting, where Deuel and Grant counties were named as recipients of the 2026 Bridge Improvement Grants (BIG).

The Commission awarded 21 grants across the state, funneling approximately $17.8 million into the preservation, rehabilitation, and replacement of local structures. The funding is part of a highly competitive cycle that saw 71 applications from across South Dakota, totaling over $97 million in requested project costs.

Local Impact: Deuel and Grant Counties

For residents in the northeast corner of the state, the announcement marks a vital win for commuter safety and agricultural logistics.

·         Grant County: Secured two grants, positioning the county as one of the top multi-grant recipients in this cycle.

·         Deuel County: Awarded one grant to address critical bridge needs within its borders.

“These structures provide the link that drives the interconnectedness of the state’s overall transportation system while enhancing statewide economic development overall,” the SDDOT stated in a release Thursday.

To remain eligible for these competitive funds, both Deuel and Grant counties maintain a local wheel tax and a rigorous five-year County Highway and Bridge Improvement Plan, ensuring that state dollars are met with proactive local management.

A Commitment to Local Safety

The BIG program is a collaborative effort that combines $7 million from license plate and vehicle fees with an $8 million set-aside from state highway funds. This year, the Transportation Commission was able to maximize the impact by reallocating $4.3 million from previously completed projects.

“The BIG program continues to be vital for the necessary preservation, rehabilitation, and replacement of local government structures,” said Joel Jundt, Secretary of Transportation. “The SDDOT commends the Transportation Commission for its continued commitment to provide state funding for this critical local government program.”

The Road Ahead

While the current funding will help address immediate needs, the work is far from over. Local governments are required to provide a minimum 20% match and have a four-year window to complete the projects.

For other local entities looking to follow in the footsteps of Deuel and Grant counties, the next Preliminary Engineering (PE) grant deadline is Saturday, Aug. 1, 2026.

Contact:

For more information regarding the BIG program, contact Doug Kinniburgh at 605-773-4284 or visit https://dot.sd.gov/doing-business/local-governments/bridge-improvement-grants.