De Smet, SD (AP) _ The Dakota, Minnesota & Eastern railroad will gradually increase the maximum speed for all trains operating on the main line after completing upgrades in the De Smet area.

Track speed will increase to 15 mph following recent improvements to increase safety and upgrade the rail corridor infrastructure.

That will be followed by weekly increases in 5 mph increments to reach a final speed of 40 mph.

The measure aims to improve public traffic flow at railroad grade crossings, and the increase is consistent with the current 40 mph track speed from Huron to Volga.

The speeds are consistent with the standards and regulations of the U.S. Department of Transportation through the Federal Railroad Administration.

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