South Dakota DOT seeks public input on state freight plan

The South Dakota Department of Transportation is soliciting public feedback on the development of the state’s freight plan.

Now in the draft phase, the plan will identify freight contributions to South Dakota’s economy, provide recommendations for strategic freight-transportation improvements and guide freight-related investments. SDDOT is trying to develop objectives and strategies that support the goals of national multimodal freight policy and the national highway freight program.

Through the plan, the state aims to improve the safety, security, efficiency and resiliency of multimodal freight transportation; achieve and maintain a state of good repair on the national multimodal freight network; and improve the reliability of freight transportation and short- and long-distance goods movements.

The Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act requires states to develop a freight plan to be eligible for federal funds provided through the National Freight Policy.

SDDOT is encouraging the public to participate in a virtual meeting on the department’s website where they can access a copy of the draft freight plan, maps and presentation materials. Written comments on the plan will be accepted until Aug. 22.