RAPID CITY, S.D. – Gov. Larry Rhoden was on-hand for the ribbon-cutting ceremony at the new women’s prison in Rapid City Friday morning. “Rehabilitation and recovery are essential in keeping our state strong, safe, and free,” said Governor Larry Rhoden. “This modern correctional facility has ample programming space and will play a vital role in lowering recidivism, creating stronger families, and protecting our communities.” The facility will use a therapeutic community model for substance use disorder treatment and will feature a business entrepreneurship program. The project began in 2023 when former Gov. Kristi Noem appropriated 60-million dollars to purchase the site near Interstate 90. The facility will be a Level three, housing medium and minimum custody offenders. The Department of Corrections said in May that it is looking to hire staff of all kinds for the prison. “Ninety-seven percent of female offenders enter prison with a substance use disorder assessment, and this new facility will strengthen our ability to provide treatment for those women,” said Secretary of Corrections Nick Lamb. “Through dedicated treatment space and a therapeutic community, women will receive the counseling, support, and life skills they need to break the cycle of addiction and successfully return to their families and communities.” Eric Aldrige will serve as the first warden of the facility. The goal of building a new facility was to address the overcrowding issue across the Department of Corrections. The other women’s designated prison is in Pierre. First inmates are expected to arrive by the end of the summer. Share via: Facebook Twitter LinkedIn More