State of the City 2024

SOC 2024 City of Sioux Falls State of the City Address with Mayor Paul TenHaken

Sioux Falls Mayor Paul TenHaken delivered his annual State of the City address on April 18, 2024, reflecting on the city's past and outlining a bold vision for the future.

  • Celebrating Milestones: The address acknowledged the 10th anniversary of the Denny Sanford PREMIER Center, 25th anniversary of the Washington Pavilion, including a new privately-funded outdoor art installation to celebrate this milestone.
  • Investing in Public Safety: The Mayor emphasized the importance of public safety and highlighted the new Public Safety Campus and ongoing recruitment efforts.
  • Modernizing Public Transit: The City’s partnership with Via and the expansion of microtransit services were recognized as successes in improving public transportation
  • Focus on Affordable Housing: The Mayor outlined progress made in affordable housing initiatives, including new partnerships and upcoming projects.
  • Investing in Quality of Life: Jacobson Plaza, featuring a dog park, playground, and splash pad, is scheduled to partially open this year. Additionally, new and improved aquatic centers are planned for Frank Olson Park and Kuehn Park as part of the upcoming Aquatics Bond.
  • Indoor Recreation: The City intends to purchase the Sanford Wellness Center, located just off of Tea Ellis Road, to meet the need for additional indoor recreation space.
  • Great Plains Zoo Master Plan: The ambitious 15-year, $150 million plan for the zoo includes a new aquarium, expanded animal habitats, and an emphasis on sustainability.
  • Infrastructure Improvements: The expansion of the Water Reclamation Plant and construction of Well 25 were highlighted as important investments in the city's infrastructure. Additionally, the South Veteran's Parkway and the use of Diverging Diamond Interchanges (DDIs) were mentioned as key transportation projects.
  • Vision for the Future: The Mayor presented a bold vision for the future, including the repurposing of the current convention center into an indoor recreation facility and the development of a new convention center downtown at the Riverline District.

The full State of the City address  and slideshow can be viewed here.

View the Slideshow

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