Governor Rhoden Leads Groundbreaking Ceremony for Historic Platte-Winner Bridge Construction Project

For Immediate Release:
Thursday, Oct. 22, 2026

Contacts:
Julie Stevenson, SDDOT Communications, 605-773-2898

PLATTE, S.D. - On Thursday, Oct. 22, 2026, Governor Larry Rhoden and South Dakota Department of Transportation (SDDOT) Secretary Joel Jundt were joined by federal, state, and local leaders for the historic Platte-Winner Bridge groundbreaking event. The ceremony included remarks from key project leaders, followed by a formal groundbreaking. Honoring a tradition from the original Platte-Winner Bridge dedication ceremony held in 1966, bands from Platte-Geddes High School and Winner Area High School performed at the groundbreaking, connecting generations of South Dakotans.

"As the longest bridge in South Dakota, the Platte-Winner bridge plays an essential role in keeping our state connected," said Governor Rhoden. "With a 100-year service life, this bridge is a responsible investment in South Dakota's transportation infrastructure. I am confident it will strengthen our economy and reinforce connections across our state and nation."

In addition to their groundbreaking duties, Governor Larry Rhoden and SDDOT Secretary Joel Jundt also celebrated with local student-athletes by officially sending off participants from Platte-Geddes High School and Winner Area High School as they headed to state competition. The send-off recognized the football teams, cross country runners, and cheer and dance participants, celebrating their hard work and wishing them success as they represent their schools and communities.

Honored guests who participated in the ceremonial groundbreaking event with Governor Rhoden and Secretary Jundt included:

• FHWA Administrator, Sean McMaster;

• U.S. Senator John Thune;

• U.S. Senator Mike Rounds;

• U.S. Representative Dusty Johnson; and

• Transportation Commissioners and city officials.

"This historic groundbreaking for the Platte-Winner Bridge is an example of how President Trump and this Administration are putting federal dollars to work to rebuild America's infrastructure," stated Federal Highway Administrator Sean McMaster. "For rural communities across south-central South Dakota, this Missouri River crossing is a vital lifeline that keeps supply chains moving, connects local producers to markets, and ensures families can safely reach key recreational areas. We're proud to deliver real, lasting results that will enhance safety and support economic growth across this region for generations to come."

The original Platte-Winner Bridge was completed in 1966. The primary contractor for the $290 million bridge reconstruction project is Ames Construction of Burnsville, MN. Construction is planned for 2027-2031.

"For the past 60 years, the Platte-Winner Bridge has served as an essential link connecting communities in South Dakota and across the region," said Senator John Thune. "This vital infrastructure project will help ensure it continues to keep our communities and businesses connected and remains a safe crossing for all who rely on it to travel across our state."

The existing bridge will remain open throughout construction and will not be removed until the new bridge is complete. Project information is available at https://dot.sd.gov/plattewinnerbridge/.

"The Platte-Winner Bridge is a significant transportation link for South Dakota. Without it, all travelers, goods, emergency services, and more would have to travel an additional 81 miles to cross the Missouri River," noted Representative Dusty Johnson. "I'm grateful my advocacy efforts along with Senators Thune and Rounds were able to secure this historic investment in our state's transportation system. Thank you to the Department of Transportation and Secretary McMaster for choosing to invest in South Dakota."

All groundbreaking event photos will be available at 2026 Groundbreaking Event. For additional information about the groundbreaking event, please contact Julie Stevenson, SDDOT Communications, at 605-773-2898 or via email at [email protected].

For updates on major traffic changes during the construction process, a free text-in service is available. To subscribe, simply text PLATTEWINNERBRIDGE to 605-566-4041.

About SDDOT:
The mission of the South Dakota Department of Transportation is to provide a safe and efficient public transportation system.

For the latest on road and weather conditions, road closures, construction work zones, commercial vehicle restrictions, and traffic incidents, please visit https://sd511.org or dial 511.

Read more about the innovative work of the SDDOT at https://dot.sd.gov.

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