Cerrone Associates, Inc., based in Wheeling, West Virginia, provides solutions in water and wastewater across the state, greatly impacting local communities. They have been providing innovative and community focused infrastructure development for nearly a century, and guided West Virginia’s waterways through the 20th century and into modern times.
From Italy to Wheeling
The firm was founded by Dominick E. Cerrone, an Italian immigrant and civil engineering graduate of New York University. Dominick E. Cerrone left Italy after his family’s farm had been destroyed by World War II, and his family settled in Wheeling, West Virginia. Dominick first began his career at A.R. Todd Associates, a small Wheeling-based company focused on water and wastewater treatment, but in 1964, Dominick purchased the company and expanded its services statewide when he recognized the need for new water systems across the state. As the water systems of the early 20th century began to reach the end of their life cycle, a new approach was needed to maintain clean, safe water.
Cerrone’s Solutions Through the 20th Century
The post World War II era saw a massive growth in population, putting stress on the already failing water systems of the earlier half of the century. During this era, many communities still used sewer systems that drained directly into creeks and rivers, causing contaminated water sources and environmental issues that impacted public health. There were very few firms in West Virginia that offered a solution to this issue, until Cerrone Associates began to offer new developments in public water and sewage infrastructure. By the 70’s, Cerrone Associates had completed more water and sewage projects than any other firm across the state.
In the early years, Cerrone Associates traveled two-lane roads at all hours, serving communities from Logan, West Virginia, to Frostburg, Maryland, and Zanesville, Ohio. Known for their practical, high-quality solutions, the firm quickly became one of the most respected in the region for public water and sewer infrastructure.
As federal investment in rural infrastructure surged in the 1970s—through initiatives like the Clean Water Act—many out-of-state engineering firms opened temporary offices in West Virginia, but often left when federal funding declined. While other firms came and went, Cerrone Associates remained committed to the state, operating continuously from their Wheeling headquarters, where they are still located today.
Moving Forward and Staying Consistent
Today, the firm continues to deliver innovative, community-focused engineering with the same dedication and personal attention that defined its founding. Their current projects include water and sewer extensions with sediment and erosion control plans, focusing on long lasting and sustainable solutions. Through consistent innovation and strong partnerships, Cerrone Associates continues to supply resilient infrastructure, ensuring the well-being of the region.
For more information on Cerrone Associates and their projects visit cerrone1.com.
