About the MPO
What we do
The MPO provides a comprehensive, cooperative and continuing program of transportation planning in the Rapid City, SD Urbanized Area. We plan for all aspects of transportation, including highways, transit, bike, pedestrian, public participation, agency coordination, etc.
Where we operate
The geographic boundary for the MPO includes the Cities of Rapid City, Box Elder, Summerset, Piedmont, Ellsworth Air Force Base, the unincorporated areas of Black Hawk and the developing areas of Pennington and Meade Counties. This includes the existing urbanized area and the area projected to become urbanized within the 20 year horizon of the Long Range Transportation Plan.
Who we are
Learn about our regulatory foundation
The Rapid City Area Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO) was created in 1977 when the population of the Census-defined urbanized area exceeded 50,000.
The MPO’s regional transportation planning process ensures that existing and future expenditures for transportation projects and programs are based on a comprehensive, cooperative, and continuing planning process. Federal funding for transportation projects and programs are channeled through this planning process.
Special Membership Qualifications
There are three committees that comprise the planning process: the Citizens Advisory Committee, the Technical Coordinating Committee, and the Executive Policy Committee. The composition of each committee must represent and be appointed by one of the member agencies within the geographic boundary of the MPO.
Summary of Duties
Provide coordinated transportation planning efforts for the 431 square miles of area located within the Rapid City Area Metropolitan Planning Organization boundary. This geographic boundary includes the City of Rapid City, the City of Box Elder, the City of Summerset, City of Piedmont, Ellsworth Air Force Base, the unincorporated areas of Black Hawk and the developing areas of Pennington County and Meade County.
