HURON –– As part of his “Open for Opportunity” tour of the state, Governor Larry Rhoden visited Huron and Alpena on Wednesday.

The governor opened his day by visiting Potter’s Shoes in downtown Huron. After a lunch at Manolis, Rhoden visited the construction on The SHED on the South Dakota State Fairgrounds. He then headed to visit Jack Links in Alpena before finishing his day in the area by talking with folks at Trussbilt in Huron.

Rhoden spent some time with the Plainsman while in town.

He first discussed the “Open for Opportunity” tour and the reasoning behind the trip throughout the state.

“There are a lot of goals, just to get to know our state and meet business owners,” Rhoden explained. “It’s amazing the information you garner when you speak with boots-on-the-ground, everyday South Dakotans.”

He continued, “It has been extremely interesting for me to get out and see all facets of our economy and the people of South Dakota. I think it helps me have a better perspective to know what I can do to help them thrive and prosper.”

Rhoden observed the makeover, over the past few years and with current construction, of Dakota Ave. He discussed how the state can help local downtowns to thrive.

“I think above all else, at a state level, (we can) provide an environment where people can thrive and prosper, and especially in towns like Huron,” the governor remarked, noting multiple people during his visit who expressed that they’ve moved back or moved to Huron in the last few years. “We can continue that economic development in our state, and especially in towns like Huron. Our personal incomes are growing faster in South Dakota than any place else.”

He concluded, “I think we are seeing the revitalization in towns that have an opportunity to improve vacant downtown buildings (like the ones on Dakota).”

Rhoden also discussed the potential for Trussbilt to be included in the prison plans, stating that the manufacturer should “certainly” be considered as part of the plans for a new state prison due to their expertise in the industry.

He also discussed child care in the state and the multi-faceted approach that can be taken by communities and the state to ensure that we have quality childcare, noting that the need is there as the state has the highest percentage of households with both parents working in the nation.