Rapid City — Governor Larry Rhoden toured the new Women’s Prison under construction in Rapid City today, highlighting progress on the $13.2 million staffing plan approved in his budget.

The facility will house up to 288 women, and hiring has already begun. Rhoden says the state is funding 133 full-time positions, including 96 security officers, 23 healthcare workers, and 20 administrative and programming staff.

The Department of Corrections says the prison will feature expanded treatment options, including addiction counseling and therapeutic communities designed to reduce repeat offenses.

DOC Secretary Nick Lamb says the shift toward rehabilitation marks a major change in how South Dakota approaches corrections.

The prison is expected to be fully staffed and completed by next summer,

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