RAPID CITY, S.D. (KBHB) – Rapid City Mayor Steve Allender says he’s asking for the best possible tracking of COVID-19 infections, as the state nears its anticipated peak time, right at the onset of tourism season.

Allender says he’s asking the state department of health to help find ways to incorporate tourist health information into the state’s COVID-19 coverage data.

Allender says tourism is inevitable, and there’s no greater danger from out-of-state visitors than there are from local neighbors and family.

Allender says he expects the issue to generate controversy on both sides.

A third city transit driver tested positive for COVID-19 this week, prompting a two-week suspension of all bus service beginning Saturday. City officials are urging people to help their neighbors get transportation around town.