May 20, 2026

This piece is sponsored by Sioux Metro Growth Alliance.

As the miles passed by, the momentum of the Sioux Metro area became even more clear.

As part of a semiannual bus tour organized by Sioux Metro Growth Alliance, passengers got an up-close view at the businesses and communities driving growth in the region.

“Attendees usually consist of county commissioners, staff, mayors, councilors, utility partners and other stakeholders who are interested in learning more about growing our region,” said Tyler Tordsen, president and CEO of Sioux Metro Growth Alliance.

“Tours typically take up close to a full day and include county and city driving tours, getting out and touring businesses and projects in our region, and other neat things that folks might miss or take for granted.”

In May, the group typically visits areas on the north side of the metro area; in August, the bus heads south of Interstate 90.

“We could read about these various facilities, but walking through, seeing things up close and personal, and speaking with employees allows us to dig deeper into what makes the Sioux Metro an attractive place to live, work and expand your business,” Tordsen said.

“We may also connect different companies to each other based on an increased understanding of the products and services they provide. Telling the story of our region to local, county, state and federal officials also puts our companies and communities at the top of their mind.”

The latest trip included stops at the new Mapleton Golf Club, along with fast-growing Thermo Bond Buildings in Brandon.

“They’ve grown over 200 employees in the last 45 days,” said Chris Fields, economic development specialist at Sioux Metro Growth Alliance.

The group then got a closer look at activity in the community of Valley Springs.

“Valley Springs is hovering about 900 people, and we’re still growing. We’re going to work on revitalizing Mian Street,” Mayor Rick Larsen said. “We got a lot of guidance from SMGA, and we’re going to start making progress.”

The group also visited downtown Dell Rapids for a behind-the-scenes tour of the community’s movie theater, as well as Walk Thru Plans in northeast Sioux Falls where they saw a demonstration of immersive technology.

“I hope our attendees take away a sense of place, a sense of pride in the Sioux Metro,” Fields said.

SMGA has offered the tours for more than a decade and is committed to continuing them going forward, Tordsen added.

“Every SMGA event, including our bus tours, are meant to be educational and with networking that’s second to none,” he said. “We find people leave a bus tour inspired by the innovation overflowing from our region’s entrepreneurs. Through the conversations between attendees, progress is made on active projects, future developments and so much more. Fellowship is important in a world that often feels siloed.”

Take a closer look below: