'RAIL TO TRAIL' PROPOSAL
Proposal: Create a 75 miles recreation trail between Tabor and Platte on an unused portion of the Napa-Platte rail line.
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The Napa to Platte line runs 83 miles from Yankton County through Bon Homme and Charles Mix counties, heritage lands of the Yankton Sioux Tribe, to Platte. Currently, only 8 miles of the rail line (between Napa Junction and Tabor) is in active rail service. About 75 miles of track can potentially be converted from 'rail to trail' between Tabor, through 8 communities, and Platte.
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This recreational trail would be open to biking, hiking, and horseback riding.
WHY IS THIS TRAIL PROPOSAL VIABLE?
* 28.8 miles of line, Ravinia to Platte, was 'railbanked' in 2007, so it meets 'rail to trail' criteria.
*Dakota Southern leases the other 54.5 miles from the state Rail Authority, but only uses about 8 miles (between Napa and Tabor) leaving about 48.5 miles potentially available for a trail. Solutions exist to include this now 'rail-active section in the recreational trail plan.
*Interest exists locally, statewide, and nationally.
*The SD Rail Authority welcomes alternative use proposals for the rail line, including a recreational trail.
HIGHLIGHTS & ADVANTAGES
SCENIC VIEWS
Picturesque, historic landscape with 50+ bridges.
CONVENIENT ACCESS
10 communities located on paved highways provide convenient entry/exit points approximately every 10 miles. This creates a variety of segments with convenient access for those who do not want to tackle the entire length in one trip.
LOCATION
Located near two South Dakota state parks; easy drive from Sioux Falls area
POTENTIAL BENEFITS
RECREATIONAL TOURISM
Addresses the growing demand for 'recreational tourism' options nationally and in South Dakota
ECONOMIC DIVERSITY
Diversifies the economy of an ag-dependent region by creating small business opportunities and improving livability in a geographically desirable area.
HEALTH BENEFITS
Adds a recreation option for an at-risk population.
WHAT IS THE PLAN TO ADVANCE THIS TRAIL PROPOSAL?
* A 'rail to trail' project needs a sponsor, typically a government body, but can be a private, non-profit (501 c 3) organization. We've begun the process to incorporate, engage professional advisors, and promote the idea.
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* Our website and social media platforms are in development with an early summer 2021 rollout goal.