Great news for cyclists, commuters, and outdoor enthusiasts across our city! The City of Sioux Falls has officially released its proposed 2027–2031 Capital Program, and it includes a substantial commitment to expanding and upgrading our beloved recreational trail network.

Under the newly proposed five-year program, the city has earmarked $12 million dedicated entirely to trail expansion and reconstruction.

What’s Planned for Our Trails?

The capital program outlines crucial connectivity and maintenance projects that will make getting around Sioux Falls on two feet or two wheels safer and more seamless.

New Trail Extensions:

Funding is lined up to grow the network with key extensions for the Cherry Creek Trail going north from Family Park, the Big Sioux River Trail heading east toward Great Bear and Brandon, and the Eastside Trail providing a link connecting Arrowhead Park and the Mary Jo Wegner Arboretum.

Essential Reconstructions:

Upgrades and reconstruction are scheduled for the southeastern spur, the section stretching from Maple Street to the diversion dam, and the River Park bridge.

Purple - New Proposed Trail Exstensions
Green - Trail Reconstruction

Budget Approval and Advocacy

While this continued investment in our quality-of-life infrastructure is a major win, the journey isn't over yet. The capital program is a proposal that still requires formal review and final approval by the Sioux Falls City Council as part of the broader budget process rolling out through July, August, and September.

Additionally, with our newly sworn-in mayor, Christine Erickson, taking the reins, community priorities and administrative focuses may evolve in future cycles.

How Falls Area Bicyclists (FAB) is Involved

As an organization dedicated to making Sioux Falls a better, safer place to ride, FAB will be keeping a close eye on this funding as it moves through the city council approval stages. We advocate actively for robust active transportation infrastructure, and seeing multi-million dollar investments directed toward trails is a testament to what happens when a community values mobility and health.

We encourage our members, bike commuters, recreational riders, and local advocates to stay engaged, support smart investments in active transportation, and let our city leaders know how much these trails matter to our daily lives.

Together, we can ensure Sioux Falls keeps moving forward!

Sioux Falls CIP Press Release here