Public Safety · Wall, SD
State officials opened a new Single Engine Air Tanker base in Wall on Thursday, Oct. 16, to improve wildfire response times across South Dakota. Governor Larry Rhoden joined officials for the opening, noting that aircraft based there can carry up to 800 gallons of water or fire retardant. The facility aims to protect communities and forested areas in the Black Hills and Cheyenne River Valley. Additionally, Rhoden signed Executive Order 2026-10 to preapprove wildland fire assistance for rural departments outside the Black Hills Forest Fire Protection District.
Transportation · Rapid City, SD
The Rapid Transit System (RTS) in Rapid City, South Dakota, recorded 26,737 passenger trips in September, marking a five percent increase compared to the same month last year. The data includes nearly 8,000 youth rides under the 'Youth Ride Free' program, which saw a seven percent jump from September 2025. RTS Manager Megan Gould noted that September ridership was 51 percent higher than in 2021, with youth trips up 89 percent over that period.
Community News · Rapid City, SD
Temperatures in Rapid City and surrounding western South Dakota areas are expected to climb toward 80 degrees on Thursday, roughly 22 degrees above normal. Southerly winds could gust 30 to 35 mph during this warm spell. A cold front is forecast to move through by Saturday morning, bringing a sharp temperature drop of more than 20 degrees and potential showers.
Community News · Rapid City, SD
Working Against Violence Inc. (WAVI), a Rapid City nonprofit operating since 1978, has been selected as South Dakota's 2026 recipient of a $20,000 grant from the Mary Kay Ash Foundation during Domestic Violence Awareness Month. The award is part of more than $1 million distributed to 51 shelters nationwide and will be directed into WAVI's emergency shelter, crisis line, safety planning, and legal advocacy services. Last year, survivors spent more than 13,000 nights in WAVI's emergency shelter. All services are free and confidential; WAVI's 24-hour crisis line is 605-341-4808.
Local Politics · Rapid City, SD
Andy Pattantyus, chair of Taxpayers for Sensible School Bonds, raised concerns about "including but not limited to" language in the proposed $107 million Rapid City Area Schools bond. He called for a citizen oversight committee on how the funds would be spent and suggested placing that committee proposal on the ballot alongside the bond. The article provides no response from RCAS officials or details on what the bond would fund.
Community brief · Rapid City, SD
Bright Note will host a one-night-only conversation with chef José Andrés on Wednesday, Nov. 18, at The Monument Summit Arena in Rapid City, South Dakota. The event features Alicia Garcia moderating a discussion about Andrés’ humanitarian work with World Central Kitchen. Local residents can find ticket details and further information through the station's video interview.
