PIERRE, S.D.(KCCR)- The Capitol Complex Restoration and Beautification Commission has approved the proposed location for the next addition to the Trail of Governors in Pierre.  Trail of Governors Foundation president Rick Jensen says they’d like to put the bronze likeness of former Governor Kristi Noem on the south side of Hilger’s Gulch.

A stone backing would be placed behind the Noem statue and irrigation equipment near the location would be concealed by the Bureau of Human Resources and Administration.  The Commission almost got a sneak peak at the Noem statue.

The design of the statutes are traditionally hidden only to be unveiled during a dedication ceremony at the State Capitol.  The addition of the Noem statue to Hilger’s Gulch means the Trail of Governors will be expanding north from the Capitol Complex.  Commission member Tom Glover would like to see  long range planning for the Trail.

Noem’s statute will be unveiled in mid-June of 2026.