USDA Rural Development State Director Colleen Landkamer joined local, state, and federal officials with representatives of the Cook County Health & Hospitals System (CCHHS) today to celebrate the groundbreaking of a $26,757,500 hospital & care center project.
“The commitment by Cook County Health and Hospitals System to improve upon the quality of healthcare for the Cook County community is important to recognize,” said Colleen Landkamer, USDA Rural Development State Director. “Solid infrastructure and modern healthcare facilities play a key role in the economic sustainability of rural communities – attracting new businesses, retaining population and providing opportunities for future growth.”
With a population of just below 5,200 people, CCHHS provides service to three townships and the City of Grand Marais and employs nearly 3 percent (150 individuals) of the entire Cook County population – 12 percent of the Grand Marais population. Located 83 miles away from the nearest Critical Access Hospital, CCHHS’ services are an essential part to the well-being of Cook County residents.
Originally built in 1958, the current facility is in much need of modernization and expansion. With help from USDA Rural Development’s Community Facilities Program, in the form of a $13.8 million direct loan and a $9.8 million loan guarantee through AgStar Financial Services, CCHHS will be able to expand their current facility to include one additional hospital wing and two care center wings. Upon completion, CCHHS will have a 16-bed Hospital and 37-bed residential Care Center – providing 100 percent private rooms and bathrooms for increased quality of care.
In addition to AgStar, USDA Rural Development partnered with the Iron Range Resources and Rehabilitation Board (IRRRB) and MN Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED) to leverage funds in the form of a $350,000 grant that will be split between the two organizations to make this project as affordable as possible.
Since 2009, USDA Rural Development has invested over $401 million in essential community facilities and equipment for rural communities through Minnesota. Rural Development also invests in housing, water and wastewater treatment, businesses, renewable energy and broadband.
For more information on USDA Rural Development programs, please contact your local Area Office by visiting www.rd.usda.gov/mn.
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