Like many rural communities, Sacred Heart’s utility systems were failing. Due to old age and deteriorating conditions, major overhaul to the City’s drinking water, wastewater, and storm water systems was needed to stop emergency utility repairs, MPCA violations, structural deficiencies, and so much more. In 2011, Bollig staff began planning efforts with Sacred Heart leaders. It became apparent that a two-phased project approach would work best.
In 2014, funding was secured for Phase 1 which included major Wastewater Treatment Plant improvements and significant underground sewer, water, and storm sewer infrastructure replacement. Phase 2 construction began in 2018 to address additional treatment plant needs.
Funding Success: Infrastructure improvements totaled $19.3 million. Bollig staff worked to secure 56% of project costs in grant funding totaling $10.9 million including significant USDA Rural Development grant dollars, MN Public Facilities Authority Water Infrastructure Funding, and a MN DEED Small Cities grant.
