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Shaping the Future for Downtown Rapid City
Shaping the Future for Downtown Rapid City
In 1972, Rapid City leaders had a choice: do they build back and maintain the status quo? Or do they look forward and see not Rapid City as it was, but as it could be?
They chose the latter, and the generations that followed have enjoyed the shade of the trees planted for them, literally and figuratively. Areas like Sioux Park, Meadowbrook Golf Course, and more would not exist today if not for their ability to see an even better future for Rapid City.
Today’s community leaders are faced with a similar decision as they look at the future of Downtown.
Growth is not only coming, but it is happening. Rapid City was named the 36th fastest growing city in the United States. If the investment is not made now to plan for the continued growth, it could fall victim to the same pains of other communities. Take I-25 in northern Colorado, for example. It has been under construction for more than ten years because Denver’s growth was so rapid the interstate system was not prepared for the traffic, and it is now in a continual state of growth and repair to meet the needs of the traffic.
Rapid City has already made historic strides and
investments into creating a community to be enjoyed by generations to come. The Monument Arena opened its doors in the fall of 2021 and has already hosted concerts, community events, athletic games, and more. A community investment much like one made by the voters of 1975 who elected to create the half-cent sales tax, today known as the Vision Fund.
Earlier this year the Rapid City Council made another historical decision in shaping the future of downtown Rapid City when it approved the TIF for Block 5, a multi-use facility that will live on the block between 5th and 6th street downtown off St. Joe. This building will feature ground-level retail, a business-traveler hotel, and apartments to bring additional foot traffic to an already bustling downtown.
Although the growth is already happening, it is easy to understand fear of the uncertainty that comes with it. Domico Rodriguez, president & CEO of Destination Rapid City said, “It’s important that people are patient. There will be growing pains but if we work together and come up with plans for that growth rather than be reactive, we can ensure that we grow in a smart manner.”
In addition to Block 5, there are two housing projects currently under construction: Legacy and The Elements. A key component to a vibrant and safe downtown is residents. They patronize businesses year-round and create the base of business for downtown.
Downtown Business Development is also a key focus. As downtown grows, the community must ensure there are businesses that meet the needs of residents and the millions of visitors that come downtown annually. “Downtown is where people will come to play and experience what Rapid City has to offer,” said Rodriguez. “The night of the Morgan Whalen concert in May, Downtown Rapid City was BUZZING! That was just a sneak peek of what is to come.” If businesses learn to adapt and take advantage of these opportunities, restaurants, bars, retail, hotel, and lounges will benefit from any events downtown.
“Our board and other community partners like the City of Rapid City, Elevate, and Visit Rapid City are passionate about quality growth for the region,” he said. “The DRC board identified three key priorities: Safety, Downtown Living and Downtown Business growth and development. If we can meet those goals, Downtown Rapid City will see its true potential.”
