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    Abandoned Structure Had Fallen into Disrepair

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    After, the site becomes the Buffalo Ridge resort and Research Center

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    Classroom before renovation

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    Classrooms now provide much need community meeting space

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    Tunnel issues before renovation included asbestos and lead paint

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    Tunnel renovations provide safe access from one structure to the next

Former SD School for The Blind

The Former South Dakota School for the Blind property is a 34.4 acre parcel of pasture, vacant land and several historic buildings on the north edge of Gary, SD. After standing vacant for several years, the grand structures had fallen into disrepair. The City of Gary applied to the South Dakota Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) Brownfield Program for assistance in addressing suspected contaminants as part of plans for purchase and future redevelopment of the property. Contaminants identified at the property were asbestos and lead-based paint. Mitigation activities at the site consisted of asbestos and lead paint removal and stabilization. The work was divided into three phases: 1) Asbestos and lead hazard abatement of interior of Boys' Dormitory and Girls' Dormitory, 2) Asbestos and lead hazard abatement of interior of Administration Building, Powerhouse/Laundry Building, and Tunnels; and asbestos abatement on exterior of Boys' Dormitory and Girls' Dormitory, 3) Lead hazard abatement of soil and exterior surfaces around the perimeters of Boy's Dormitory, Girl's Dormitory, and Powerhouse/Laundry Building. Phase 1 was initiated in December 2008 and completed in February 2009. Phase II was completed in May 2009, and Phase III was completed in June 2009. Site owner, Dakota Wind, LLC., recently held a grand re-opening at the site, renamed the Buffalo Ridge Resort and Business Center. The structures have seen new life as a hotel, office spaces, and meeting rooms. A new campground has also been added around Lake Elsie on the site.

The project is featured in the Jan/Feb 2010 issue of South Dakota Magazine.  Subscriptions to South Dakota Magazine can be obtained through their website at www.southdakotamagazine.com or by calling 800-456-5117.