15-02-2025
New housing development brings growth and opportunity to Armour
Feb. 14—ARMOUR, S.D. — After more than a decade without significant housing development, Armour is finally seeing a new wave of growth. The Hometown Development, a 36-lot housing project, is underway, bringing new opportunities for homeownership to this small South Dakota town.
The development, which sits on 40 acres within city limits, was purchased in 2019 by local businessman Bob Goodnow. Initially, the land was overgrown with native grass and plagued by standing water, but Goodnow had a vision to transform it. Through extensive work with local contractors, including David Vanderpol Construction, Goodnow was able to prepare the site, build drainage solutions and clear space for new homes.
"Armour needed new housing," Goodnow said. "Every town around us had housing developments, and it was time for Armour to catch up."
Through collaboration with the city, Goodnow secured a $675,000 HIFP General Grant, which helped install water, sewer, streets, and streetlights for the first 27 lots. The remaining nine lots were completed in the fall of 2024, ensuring that all 36 lots are now fully serviced with sewer and water connections.
With infrastructure in place, the development is already seeing success. The first lot was sold in fall 2024, and construction on the first home is underway. Two other lots have already been sold, with building set to begin soon.
"The town really needed more housing options, and this project is exactly what we've been missing," Goodnow said.
In addition to Hometown Development, the town's affordable housing options are bolstered by the Governor's Houses, an initiative led by the Armour Community Development Corporation (ACDC). These homes, built by inmates at Mike Durfee State Prison in Springfield and sold to income-eligible South Dakotans, have already made their mark in Armour. Two homes have been placed, with a third set to arrive this spring. Otto Fousek and Kevin Werkmeister of ACDC have worked hard to bring these homes to the area, helping provide affordable homeownership for local residents.
Kevin Werkmeister of the ACDC explained the importance of the Governor's Houses to the community.
"I love to see our community thrive, and in order for this to happen, a key component is to grow the availability of housing," Werkmeister said. "These Governor's houses along with Bob's development around the lake have been huge for the success of our community."
For Goodnow, the Hometown Development project is more than just a business venture; it's a personal contribution to the future of his hometown. Having retired years ago from his business, Bob's Farm Service, when his stepson and son-in-law took over, Goodnow has kept busy with various community projects, including managing five apartments connected to the Little Folks Home Daycare.
He's also in the process of preparing five more apartments in the opposite wing of the building, along with three single studio apartments to the east of the daycare. Additionally, the basement of the daycare building is being considered for another future apartment. Even at 84, Goodnow remains active in his efforts to provide housing options in Armour. However, he's ready to retire from these projects as well.
"I think I'm coming to the end of my projects," Goodnow said. "It's time for me to retire. I've been busy for years, but I feel like it's time to step back. I'm ready to relax a little bit."
Local residents are excited about the development. Eden Slate of the Armour Community Club expressed optimism about the development's impact.
"This is exactly what Armour needed," Slate said. "Having more homes will attract new people, and that means more support for our businesses. It's a win for everyone."
Armour resident Robin Strand agrees, seeing the development as key to expanding the town's tax base and supporting local infrastructure.
"If we bring more people to town, it helps the businesses, the schools, and the whole community," Strand said. "It's about growing in a way that benefits everyone."
With the Hometown Development moving forward and Governor's Houses soon to be added to the mix, Armour is on track for a period of exciting growth. Goodnow, although ready to retire from projects like this one, is confident that Armour's future is in good hands.
"I've seen a lot over the years, but this is something special," he said. "I'm proud of what we've done here, and I'm excited to see Armour thrive in the years to come."
