BNSF reviews independent appraisal of South Dakota yard pegged for relocation

Earlier this month, another important step was taken to advance a proposed BNSF Railway Co. yard redevelopment project in Sioux Falls, S.D., city officials announced.

An independent appraisal of the 10-acre yard site in downtown Sioux Falls was completed and sent to BNSF for review. Sioux Falls and BNSF officials are holding early discussions about the railroad-owned land that the city wants to purchase.

The city is assessing the feasibility of removing the yard from downtown and determining relocation options. Numerous studies and reports have identified the site as a prime location for economic redevelopment projects.

If BNSF sells the land west of the Great Northern Depot to the city, existing tracks east of the depot would be maintained for the railroad's operation and two 3,400-foot sidings would be built to accommodate BNSF interchanges with the Ellis & Eastern Railroad.