Cook County Board of Commissioners Approves Build Up Cook Intergovernmental Agreements

The Cook County Board of Commissioners approved funding today for construction projects through the Build Up Cook program. These projects include critical water infrastructure improvements such as water main repairs, pump replacements, back up generator replacements, hydrant replacements and valve repairs. The projects also include public building facility repairs, exterior repairs and roof replacements.

Through the work of the Build Up Cook Intergovernmental Working Group, 46 capital project needs were identified in 22 communities. These projects address needs for critical improvements in drinking water and stormwater infrastructure as well as other public buildings and facilities. With board approval to execute up to 25 Intergovernmental Agreements (IGAs) with these communities, Build Up Cook will be able to move forward with procurements and project completion.

"Today marks a significant milestone in our commitment to improving essential infrastructure in Cook County," said Cook County Board President Toni Preckwinkle. "Through the Build Up Cook program, we are ensuring that our communities, particularly those that have been historically underserved, receive the critical improvements they need. These projects will enhance public safety, improve quality of life and promote sustainable development across the County."

With a $30.5 million total budget from American Rescue Plan Act Funds, construction on projects can begin immediately and is expected to be completed by the end of 2026.

“This is a step forward in the mission of the bureau to provide sustainable, equitable and collaborative projects that improve the quality of life for the county’s residents.” said Bureau Chief Elizabeth Granato. "I’m proud of the work that Build Up Cook has already done to address some of the most critical issues in Cook County, and I look forward to highlighting the successes in the future.”

Led by the Bureau of Asset Management, the mission of Build Up Cook is to build municipal capacity to address capital improvement and infrastructure needs through consulting, professional development, engineering and construction support. The program prioritizes support to 26 under-resourced municipalities as identified using the 2023 Equitable Allocation Model, past County infrastructure investment and geographic data.

More information, as well as a comprehensive list of the municipalities and projects approved through IGAs in this program, is available at https://arpa.cookcountyil.gov/build-up-cook