Planning for Capitol Lake Complex remodel still includes a flaming fountain, would make room for additional war memorials

The Capitol Lake Complex by the state Capitol building in Pierre is going to be remodeled….. just what that will look like, is still up for discussion.

Deputy State Engineer Kristine Day recently (Dec. 13, 2023) told the Capitol Complex Restoration and Beautification Commission that a flaming fountain will be part of the project.

The new flaming fountain won’t be the original, but Commissioner of the Bureau of Human Resources and Administration Darin Seeley says it will align with the tradition of what makes the Capitol Lake area unique.

Seely says the current proposal has the flaming fountain near the Vietnam and Korean War memorials on the east side of the lake. He says that’s because they’re anticipating additions to the area in the future.

Before work can be done, the South Dakota Legislature must approve the funding for the project.