STURGIS, S.D. — A new improvement project at Lions Club Pond is expected to make one of Sturgis’ most popular outdoor spaces safer and more accessible for anglers and families.

The Sturgis City Council recently approved a shoreline enhancement project that will add three rock fishing piers along the south side of the pond while improving the appearance of the shoreline.

Public Works Director Rick Bush said the project is intended to encourage fishing away from the narrow strip of land between the pond and Lazelle Street and create a more welcoming recreational area.

“By creating these fishing access points on the south side of the pond, we’re giving kids and families a safer, more comfortable place to enjoy the pond,” Bush said.

Bush said the project will feature three slate rock piers similar to those found at Custer State Park. The structures will extend slightly into the pond to provide stable fishing access for the public.

“This is really about enhancing a community asset that already gets a tremendous amount of use,” Bush said. “Lions Club Pond is one of those places that means something to people. Folks who grew up here remember fishing there as kids, and now they’re bringing their own children.”

Bush said the project was one of several community improvement ideas supported by former Sturgis Mayor Kevin Forrester, who believed in investing in public spaces that improve quality of life.

“This was one of the projects he was passionate about because he knew how important that pond is to the community,” Bush said.

The approximately $51,500 project will be funded through a partnership between the city, South Dakota Game, Fish and Parks and an anonymous private donor. Game, Fish and Parks is contributing $15,000, while the city’s $26,485 share will come from the Capital Improvements Fund.