News

When we submitted our response to the Project Prison Reset Task Force, we considered the project as a potential driver of job creation and a source of meaningful economic impact for the region. This was the thought process that would have allowed both city staff and the City Council to weigh the merits and community implications in advance, should Box Elder be identified as a favorable site previous to the Task Force meeting on July 8, 2025. 

Since the submittal of the response to the RFI, we have received meaningful feedback from our community, and it has become clear that pursuing a correctional facility in Box Elder is not aligned with the sentiments of our residents or the current workforce realities within the Black Hills region.

We appreciate the opportunity to participate in the process and wish the state the very best in identifying the most suitable location for this important project. At this time, however, we are respectfully withdrawing our submission for consideration of a site in Box Elder, South Dakota.

Last night, the City Council recognized Fleet Manager Kenny Moore for earning the Certified Public Fleet Professional (CPFP) designation from the American Public Works Association!

Kenny is the first in a five-state region to receive this certification, a huge accomplishment for him and the City of Box Elder. Read the full news release here:

 Last night, the City Council recognized Cassie for earning the Certified Public Works Professional – Management (CPWP-M) designation from the American Public Works Association!

We’re incredibly proud of Cassie’s dedication and her vital role in keeping our city running smoothly. Read the full news release here:

Exciting news for locals and visitors alike: Hotel Way is now officially open in Box Elder! 

This new roadway connects the I-90 Service Road to Cheyenne Boulevard, providing smoother and more convenient access to two of the area’s favorite destinations, WaTiki Indoor Waterpark Resort and Starbucks. 

Hotel Way has been a long-standing goal for Box Elder, and with the assistance of LIV Hospitality, the South Dakota Department of Transportation (SDDOT), and Rapid City, Box Elder has been able to bring this much-needed corridor to life. The new road also eliminates the need for drivers to make a left turn from the I-90 Service Road onto Elk Vale when traveling south, representing a significant safety improvement in the area. The opening of Hotel Way is part of an ongoing effort to enhance infrastructure, improve traffic flow, and elevate the overall travel experience for residents, hotel guests, and tourists visiting one of South Dakota’s top family destinations. 

Whether you’re grabbing your morning coffee or spending the day at the waterpark, getting there is now quicker, safer, and more convenient than ever.

News Release Here:

Construction Update: Highway 1416 Sanitary Sewer Project

The City of Box Elder will be providing updates to the public regarding current and anticipated impacts to traffic flows and construction activities related to the Highway 14/16 Sanitary Sewer Upgrades project. Updates will be posted on a weekly basis to the City’s website on our Engineering Department’s page and the News Section of our homepage. Updates will also be posted to the City’s Facebook and Instagram accounts. 

Weekly Project Highlights:

April 7 to April 11:

• Manhole rehabilitation work to continue on Box Elder Road.

Minor traffic impacts on Box Elder Road, with a lane closure around MHs.

• Work continues in the Highway 1416 median on the eastern most end of the project.

• No impact on the N Ellsworth Rd and Highway 1416 intersection.

• Work may include activities adjacent to Highway 1416 driving lanes, but all lanes will remain open.

Important Note – This work will impact the Oak Street Crossover.

April 14 to April 18:

• Completion of manhole rehabilitation on Box Elder Road expected.

• Work continues in the Highway 1416 median on the eastern end of the project

• No impact on the N Ellsworth Rd and Highway 1416 intersection.

• Work may include activities next to Highway 1416, but all lanes will remain open.

Please visit the City’s Engineering Department’s Page for more information!

UPDATE @ 8:56 p.m. - Water Services are restored, however the lines will need to repressurize. Expect this to take until approximately 9:30 p.m. Water may be cloudy at first, running the faucet for a few minutes should result in clear water.

UPDATE @ 4:40 p.m. - Water Services are expected to be off until approximately 8 p.m.

Water Service Leak - Expect low to no water pressure in service areas north of Interstate 90. Currently unknown when services will return to normal. Updates will be provided.

UPDATE: City offices are closed for the day (3/19/2025 @ 3:45 p.m.) due to no water.

Thank you!

Starting January 28, 2025, the City of Box Elder launched a new online platform for permits & licensing!

This new system will help you:

✅ Apply for permits & licenses

✅ Pay online (Credit Card & E-Check options)

✅ Track your application progress

✅ Submit documents & request inspections

✅ Receive important updates & reports by email

There will be two informational help sessions held at the Community Center in City Hall

• Tuesday, February 4, 2025, 4:00 pm – 6:00 pm
• Wednesday, February 5, 2025, 9:00 am – 11 am 

Get ready for a smoother, faster experience!

For any questions, please contact the Planning & Zoning office at 605-923-1408 or email planning@boxelder.us.

You may have heard about upcoming changes to our water and wastewater systems. After consulting with external experts, the City Council has decided to proceed with vital upgrades to our infrastructure. 

These changes are underway. However, before accessing grants to fund these Capital Improvement Projects, certain procedures must be followed. We're actively seeking and exploring alternative funding options to minimize the impact on you, our valued residents. Rest assured, we've secured funds from specific grants and other sources to help ease the financial burden on our community. 

To stay informed, monitor your utility bills for updates, and continue to visit this site for comprehensive information on surcharges and their application. Thank you for your cooperation and understanding as we aim to enhance the future of our city's infrastructure and quality of life for everyone.

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