RAPID CITY, S.D. – Regional Health today announced its acquisition of naming rights to the Rushmore Plaza Civic Center, which will be known as “The Monument” after expansion construction is completed in the fall of 2021. This aligns with Regional Health’s announcement earlier this week that it will become Monument Health in January 2020.
At a joint appreciation event and groundbreaking ceremony at the civic center today, Regional Health President and Chief Executive Officer Paulette Davidson surprised employees and their families with yet another name change.
“We are thrilled to have our new name associated with memories that will be created at The Monument,” said Davidson. “The Rushmore Plaza Civic Center has long been known as a place to gather and experience sporting events, performances, the arts and more. We hope family and friends come together at The Monument to create memories that will be associated with our name.
The 250,000 square foot arena will be home to the Black Hills Stock Show, PRCA Rodeo Rapid City, Lakota Nation Invitational, President’s Cup Soccer Tournament and the Rushmore Cup Hockey Tournament. In addition, the space will be used for concerts, family shows, circuses, basketball and large-scale wrestling tournaments, as well as open-floor exhibitions.
Voters approved construction of a new civic center arena in June 2018. Regional Health submitted a proposal to the civic center board and selection committee members after it was announced they would accept proposals for naming rights last December.
The health care system, which will be referred to Monument Health starting in January, has been awarded the naming rights for the Rushmore Plaza Civic Center for 10 years. This includes the new arena and everything under the roof of the event complex.
“Our committee made this decision because Monument Health is a permanent part of the community, and we wanted them as a partner on having a lasting impact with all the events that will happen here in the future,” said Executive Director of Rushmore Plaza Civic Center Craig Baltzer.
After the partnership takes full effect in 2021, the Regional Health Orthopedics & Sports Medicine team will be the official sports medicine partner for all events that occur within The Monument.
With this new partnership, Monument Health will offer new quarterly community health fairs to bring free or low-cost health screenings and health information to Black Hills residents.
“This name opportunity is unique for us and will be a source of pride for all physicians and caregivers. This is an enormous chance for us to give back to the Black Hills at a time of great growth,” said Davidson. “As the largest employer in the region, it is important that we continue to positively impact our communities.”
