The Douglas School District is moving ahead with plans to build a new elementary school after securing $42 million in federal funding through the Transportation, Housing and Urban Development appropriations bill.
District leaders thanked federal and local officials — including Sens. John Thune and Mike Rounds, Rep. Dusty Johnson, and staff in Rapid City — for helping secure the money for the project, known as Elementary School #1.
The new school is part of a long‑term plan to handle expected enrollment growth tied to the B‑21 Raider bomber program at Ellsworth Air Force Base. The district, which serves a large population of military‑connected students, has spent seven years preparing for the incoming families.
The project also includes an expansion of Douglas Middle School, a new bus loop, and additional parking. Construction planning is underway, and the district expects the build to take about two years once federal funds are released.
Officials say the district’s limited property‑tax base makes federal support essential for major capital projects. More updates will be provided as planning progresses.
Comments