Civic Issues
Topics getting the most attention in Sioux Falls public meetings, ranked by how frequently they are discussed.
5 issues in roads
Bus depot renovations nearing completion
The downtown bus depot is almost done and staff move in around mid-November. Riders will get a nicer, safer, easier-to-maintain facility.
Transit expansion and fare-free route request
Year-to-date ridership is up 3% over 2025, with paratransit up 11% and fixed route up 7%, though micro-transit is down 28%.
North Marion Road added to capital plan
After two years of Councilor Sigette's advocacy, Marion Road from Maple Street to 60th Street North is now programmed in the five-year plan — the north mile in 2030, the Benson-to-Maple segment in 2031.
Phillips Avenue downtown reconstruction
The 2027 plan includes rebuilding Phillips Avenue between 8th and 10th Streets plus a River Road segment, with streetscape amenities and Xcel Energy duct bank work; construction is targeted for 2028 after community engagement in 2027.
2027-2031 Capital Program and Sales Tax Revenue
The second penny sales tax funds streets, parks, fire stations, and equipment — and 2026 sales tax is beating expectations (July was up 11.4%, the best month since 2022). The city is programming $9.8 million of carried-forward balance into 2027 street projects so engineering can start three to four months earlier.