Survival Stories
Survive Apocalypse in Style: South Dakota’s Bunker Community Boom
Nestled deep within the Black Hills mountain range of South Dakota, a former army base stretches across 18 miles, now transformed into a community of livable bunkers. This is not a relic of the past, but a thriving community designed to house up to 10,000 people. Once used to store bombs and munitions from 1942 to 1967, these bunkers have been repurposed to provide life-saving shelter as part of the Vivos xPoint community.
The concrete and steel homes, which can be acquired for $55,000 plus an annual ground rent of $1,091, are part of what Dante Vicino, the executive director of the business, describes as an “epic humanitarian survival project.” He explains, “Vivos, now known as an epic humanitarian survival project, is fully prepared for whatever and whenever events may unfold.”
Contrary to what some might think, the residents of this doomsday community are not extreme preppers or the ultra-rich. “Our members are neither ‘preppers’ nor the ‘elite one per cent,’ but rather well-educated, average people with a keen awareness of the current global events and a sense of responsibility knowing they must care for and protect their families during these potentially epic and catastrophic times,” says Vicino. The economic profile of the members is diverse, ranging from lower middle-class incomes to high-net-worth individuals.
Vicino continues, “Vivos is the Plan B backup plan for their life assurance when all hell breaks loose – they view Vivos as a solution when it is needed. When everyone else is scrambling for a solution, our members will journey to their designated shelter, joined by hundreds of like-minded people, all prepared to lock the blast door and ride out whatever threats may be going on above.”
The bunkers are designed for a minimum of one year of autonomous operation without the need for residents to return to the surface. This is a feature that has become increasingly attractive in the wake of current global events. “As a result of the current Covid threat, the Ukrainian war and the ripple of subsequent consequences, the demand for Vivos has exponentially grown,” Vicino states.
“People are sensing that World War Three is about to break loose, from Russia to China, and the Middle East. We are living in very dangerous times, making the need to have a life-assurance shelter solution a must-have, for those who want to survive these extinction-level events, and to have the opportunity to emerge safely thereafter on the other side.”
The Vivos xPoint community prides itself as one of the safest places in North America, within a 24-hour drive from virtually all points within the United States. The semi-subterranean structures come unfurnished and can be used either as a primary residence or a home away from home. Various configurations are available, with the largest bunker able to accommodate 24 people. The community also boasts several communal spaces including a cinema, gym, and garden area.
In the wake of the pandemic, interest in the Vivos xPoint community has surged. “Inquiries and applications are up over 2,000 per cent year over year, plus sales are up over 300 per cent and growing exponentially,” says Vicino. “Everyone seems to be jumping off the fence and wanting an immediate survival solution.”
However, becoming a member of this unique community is not a simple process. Prospective residents must apply for membership by detailing skills and areas of expertise that would prove useful should the worst happen. The best candidates are then selected from the membership pool and invited to join the community.
Vicino concludes, “Vivos is not merely about concrete, steel and blast doors. It is about having a backup plan for mankind to survive and for families to have the opportunity to potentially be part of a like-minded community as these events unfold.” The company is currently also building Vivos Europa located in a mountain in Germany.
Our Thoughts
The concept of the Vivos xPoint community is fascinating, a perfect melding of history, survivalism, and community. It’s a testament to preparedness, not just for personal survival, but for the preservation of humanity in the face of potential disasters.
The price tag on these bunkers isn’t negligible, yet it’s not exclusive to the ultra-rich. This speaks volumes about the value individuals place on their safety and well-being.
What stands out is the diversity of the community. It’s not just for the elite or extreme survivalists, but for ordinary folks who understand the uncertainty of our times. This dispels the stereotype of survivalists as fringe figures, painting them as pragmatic individuals instead.
The community’s focus on skills and contributions is commendable. It’s not just about surviving, but thriving and rebuilding, should the worst happen.
Finally, the surge in interest is a clear sign of the times. Whether driven by fear or foresight, it seems more people are considering the possible need for such a survival solution. One can only hope that it will never be necessary.
Let us know what you think, please share your thoughts in the comments below.