Dell Rapids Trailway

by Larry Lagarde

An Inspirational Tale For Trail Advocates Nationwide

Linsey Duffy and Jill Schumaker are two small town moms that envisioned improving their community by building a bike trail beside the Big Sioux River. Due to their energy and can do attitude, the community of Dell Rapids, South Dakota (pop: 3000) is edging closer to turning their dream into a reality.

With little more than an idea and a trail map, the duo convinced town authorities to support the idea. Back office support from the Sioux Falls Area Community Foundation quickened the pace of the project.

Already, residents of the area have donated $200,000. Once another $800,000 is cobbled together, federal & state transportation funding will cover the rest of the $4 million cost.

Though the Dell Rapids Trailway is years from being built, this story demonstrates that a good idea and a little moxie can go a long way.