Rapid City marked an important milestone on Friday, January 16, as Monument Health celebrated the opening of a new transportation garage at the Monument Health Distribution Center on Lombardy Drive. The facility represents a meaningful investment in patient access and long-term operational efficiency across western South Dakota.

A Partnership Built on Service

Prairie Hills Transit, based in Spearfish, began transporting Monument Health patients in 2011. With years of experience supporting clinics, nursing homes, and assisted living facilities throughout the region, the organization quickly became a trusted partner in helping patients reach essential appointments and treatments.

As patient needs expanded, so did the transportation network. Today, four dedicated vans support Monument Health facilities across Rapid City, Custer, Spearfish, Sturgis, Lead, and Deadwood, with additional support from surrounding communities when needed.

A Practical Solution to Meet Growing Demand

The new garage provides secure, weather-protected space for the transportation fleet—a critical improvement after years of relying on outdoor vehicle storage that left vans vulnerable to snow, hail, and extreme temperatures. The project, six years in development, reflects close collaboration between Brad Haupt, Vice President of Supply Chain and Contract Management at Monument Health, and Barb Cline, Executive Director of Prairie Hills Transit.

“Having this facility here will allow Barb’s team to be efficient,” said Haupt. “They don’t just take care of patients here in Rapid City—they cover all of our facilities from Custer, Spearfish, Sturgis, Lead, and Deadwood. We even serve patients from as far away as North Dakota, helping them get where they need to be.”

More Than a Building

Beyond protecting vehicles, the garage represents a strengthened commitment to improving access to care. Each van supports patients traveling to dialysis, specialty care, follow-up visits, and other essential services: trips that often have a profound impact on health and well-being.

The facility also honors the drivers whose daily work ensures patients arrive safely and on time. Their service is a critical link in the region’s healthcare system, especially for individuals who depend on reliable transportation to receive care.

A Long-Term Investment in Regional Health

The new transportation garage is a testament to what sustained partnership and shared purpose can achieve. With this addition, Monument Health and Prairie Hills Transit are better equipped to support growing patient needs, reduce barriers to care, and strengthen health access across western South Dakota.

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