North Dakota – In a significant step toward strengthening cross-border collaboration, North Dakota Gov. Kelly Armstrong joined South Dakota Gov. Larry Rhoden, Standing Rock Sioux Tribe Chairwoman Janet Alkire, and members of the Tribal Council for a historic joint meeting at the tribe’s headquarters in Fort Yates on Thursday.
This meeting marked the first time the two state governors have met together with the Standing Rock Sioux Tribe, whose expansive reservation spans parts of both states.
Gov. Armstrong highlighted the importance of collaboration with tribal nations, emphasizing that such partnerships are essential for the success of North Dakota. He remarked, “Collaboration with our tribal nations is key to North Dakota’s success, and with our neighbors in South Dakota, we share a commitment to strengthening government-to-government partnerships and relationships.” Armstrong also expressed gratitude toward Chairwoman Alkire, Gov. Rhoden, and the Tribal Council for their participation in the discussions aimed at fostering prosperity for all citizens in the region.
South Dakota Gov. Larry Rhoden also expressed his commitment to working with the tribe, stating, “My job is to be Governor for all South Dakotans, including our Native American people. We are at our strongest when we work together for our people.” Rhoden further thanked Chairwoman Alkire and the Tribal Council for their hospitality, noting that the meeting was a crucial step toward rebuilding trust and ensuring future cooperation between the states and the tribe.
During the meeting, the officials discussed a broad range of topics, including education, economic development, federal funding, water infrastructure, roads, and treaty rights. The Standing Rock Sioux Reservation spans the border between North Dakota and South Dakota, with roughly half of the reservation in North Dakota, specifically Sioux County.
A key topic of discussion was the proposed construction of a bridge over the Missouri River at Lake Oahe, which would connect Sioux County in North Dakota with Emmons County. Tribal leaders emphasized the bridge’s potential to stimulate economic development by improving transportation for livestock and agricultural goods.
The U.S. Department of Transportation has already awarded a $14.5 million planning grant for the project, and if it proceeds, recent legislation signed by Gov. Armstrong authorizes the North Dakota Department of Transportation to assume ownership of the bridge or integrate it into the state highway system. Currently, the closest Missouri River bridge crossings are 65 miles to the north in Bismarck-Mandan and 50 miles to the south in Mobridge, S.D.
Following the meeting, the group visited a local school, where they met with students and educators to further discuss educational initiatives and the impact of collaborative efforts on the tribe’s youth.
