Over the last 15 years, the City of Cook’s infrastructure was rapidly deteriorating. Water mains were breaking due to the corrosive nature of native soils. The storm sewer system was failing due to corroded metal plugging the piping, causing localized flooding. Finally, sanitary sewer mains were allowing Inflow/Infiltration to enter the system, requiring sewage bypasses during heavy rainfalls.


The City of Cook initiated a major revitalization program to replace 95 percent of the infrastructure over a 10+ year period. JPJ Engineering was procured to assist the City with planning, civil engineering, and grant-writing tasks to help solve these problems over several years. Utilities and streets were reconstructed in the replacement areas with modern methods and materials. Sidewalk reconstruction included truncated domes at intersections per ADA requirements.

Community Revitalization

Cook, MN

A majority of this revitalization was financed with $1.7 million in grants and $2.4 million in loans from the USDA and St. Louis County. The annual savings resulting from these improvements is estimated by the City of Cook to be between $30 – $50 K.

PROJECT EXPERIENCE