Governor Ron DeSantis announced today that $20 million in funding for infrastructure projects in 17 rural Florida communities was being funded through the Rural Infrastructure Fund (RIF). These investments aim to address critical infrastructure needs, boost local economies, and attract new businesses to these areas.
“Florida is committed to supporting rural communities and equipping them with the tools needed to drive economic growth,” said Governor DeSantis. “These targeted investments will enhance infrastructure, foster business development, and create a foundation for long-term prosperity.”
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“Thanks to Governor DeSantis’ leadership, Florida continues to prioritize the economic development of our rural communities,” said Florida Secretary of Commerce J. Alex Kelly. “This funding will create jobs, attract businesses, and ensure sustainable growth for generations to come.”
The Rural Infrastructure Fund supports the planning and development of critical projects in rural areas to stimulate economic growth. This year, FloridaCommerce reviewed a record 93 applications requesting over $115 million.
The $20 million allocated for 2024 has been awarded to 17 projects, including previously announced recipients Cedar Key and Cross City. Since 2019, the program has provided more than $90 million in funding.
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Awarded Communities and Projects
- City of Bonifay: $1,233,000 to construct drainage improvements and address significant flooding at four critical locations.
- Cedar Key Water & Sewer District: $2,500,000 to rehabilitate 17 lift stations impacted by Hurricane Idalia.
- City of Chipley: $295,000 to design and plan the extension of public sanitary sewer services along Brickyard Road.
- Town of Cross City: $620,000 to upgrade and evaluate the town’s potable wells, including plans for a potential fourth well.
- Dixie County: $300,000 to develop a master plan to improve access to Cross City Airport.
- Hardee County Industrial Development Authority: $1,478,822 to build a centralized parking area in Wauchula to support businesses, tourism, and housing.
- Indian River State College: $1,500,000 for property assessment and planning to revitalize the Okeechobee School for Boys, creating 10 new jobs.
- Jackson County BOCC: $1,665,000 to enhance the public sewer system along US 231 by rehabilitating the Barber Road Lift Station.
- Town of Lee: $1,100,000 to upgrade the waterline servicing Madison County Industrial Park, projected to create 40-50 jobs.
- City of Live Oak: $559,365 to rehabilitate an existing lift station to improve capacity and support city growth.
- City of Marianna: $1,655,000 for facility upgrades, including OSHA-compliant features, creating 110 new jobs.
- City of Perry: $1,396,319 to rebuild a lift station to prevent sewer overflows and replace outdated equipment.
- Sebring Airport Authority: $600,000 for design and drainage improvements at Logistics Park in Sebring Regional Airport.
- City of Sneads: $84,500 for urgent water system repairs identified by FDEP inspections.
- Wakulla County: $4,504,369 to acquire and improve land for a facility supporting Project Boomer, expected to create 42 jobs and retain 79 jobs.
- Washington County: $67,500 to conduct a feasibility study for future commercial development.
- City of Wauchula: $441,125 for resurfacing and expansion of Hogan Street, creating 40 new jobs.
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