Encourage the continuation of privately owned and operated essential rail service in South Dakota through the use of available public and private funds, where the public interest justifies such assistance. Facilitate the consolidation of rail services in South Dakota when opportunities exist for improving the efficiency of rail operations. Increase public awareness of rail service issues as they affect South Dakota and to promote public involvement in the rail planning process. Integrate South Dakota's rail transportation system with other modes, with surrounding states, and with the national rail transportation system. Provide and maintain essential rail services and facilities in South Dakota which serve the public interest but which cannot otherwise be profitably continued by private carriers.
Workable actions are essential to the rail planning process.
Retain a viable core rail system comprising of essential rail lines which serve the primary traffic-producing areas in South Dakota and which provide accessibility to state and national markets. Invest Railroad Trust Fund dollars and assist in securing federal funds for the permanent improvement and rehabilitation of essential rail lines. Assist in establishing regional railroad authorities and providing loans to develop or improve rail facilities, including unit train loading facilities. Local Rail Freight Assistance Program Historically, federal funding has been an important part of the maintenance and rehabilitation of rail lines in South Dakota. However, since 1988, the availability of federal assistance for railroad rehabilitation has become increasingly problematic with the uncertainties of the federal budget process.