Let’s preface this by noting that downtown Rapid City isn’t exactly like Midtown Manhattan, where parking spaces can sell for more than a good-sized house. I grew up in Rapid, and I’ve never had to park more than a block away from where I needed to go.
Of course, Rapid City’s downtown is a little more happenin’ than it was when I was in high school. That’s why the city is talking about adding a third level to the parking ramp between Fifth and Sixth Streets, a block that faces city hall, the bus station and Prairie Edge trading post and art gallery. According to the Rapid City Journal, the third level would add 150 parking spaces and could be finished by this fall.
If you’re a casual visitor to Rapid City, though, don’t head for the ramp expecting a parking spot while you go shopping downtown. The parking ramp requires a monthly permit, so it’s meant mostly for retail workers and city employees. That’s still good news for you vacationers - with more employees in the ramp, there will be less competition for the metered spaces along the streets.
Parking certainly isn’t a problem in Rapid City - yet - but it’s good to know that it won’t turn into one anytime soon.
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