In Meade County, South Dakota, construction crews are putting the final touches on the Pete Lien & Sons Shooting Sports Complex, a $20 million, 400-acre public range project that has been years in the making. Located about 12 miles north of Rapid City, the range is slated to open to the public on November 8, offering 160 rifle, pistol, and shotgun bays, a tactical range for shooting on the move, and a 10,000-square-foot main building to host events, law enforcement training, and firearm education programs. The ranges rapid construction marks a stark contrast with its turbulent funding history. Initially proposed by the South Dakota Game, Fish & Parks Department (GFP) in 2021 with strong support from then-Gov. Kristi Noem, the project survived six failed funding bills before Noem ultimately allocated $13.5 million from the states Future Fund to push it forward. Critics, including Rep. Liz May, objected to the use of taxpayer-backed economic development funds, arguing that the legislature was bypassed and public money diverted from workforce programs. GFP officials countered that public shooting facilities were long overdue and would reduce environmental damage from makeshift shooting sites scattered across the Black Hills. Supporters say the facility will be a game-changer for South Dakotas shooting community. With 160 bays and space for major competitions, the complex is expected to attract shooters statewide and nationally. Mark Blote, co-owner of First Stop Gun & Coin in Rapid City, described the facility as truly a world-class facility that could bring in tourism dollars and bolster the local hospitality industry. GFPs John Kanta said the department receives daily calls from residents eager to schedule events or practice sessions once the gates open. The ranges amenities are designed for more than recreation. Law enforcement agencies will have access to the facility for firearms qualifications and tactical training, and youth groups and hunter education programs will use the site for safety instruction. GFP says ongoing annual operating costsaround $400,000will be covered by a mix of user fees, agency support, and federal grants, with no reliance on the states general fund. More than $6.3 million in donations and pledges from industry supporters, including Smith & Wesson, Glock, and South Dakota Youth Hunting Adventures, helped close funding gaps. Still, concerns persist among some neighbors, who worry about noise levels, traffic on rural roads, and disruptions to ranching operations. Meade County rancher Joe Norman, whose property borders the range site, voiced frustration that GFP and lawmakers pressed ahead despite local objections. GFP says noise-mitigating berms, baffles, and land topography will keep sound levels under control and that a nearby road will be paved to reduce dust.