Governor Ron DeSantis has announced $20 million in awards to support infrastructure projects in small county governments and rural municipalities across Florida. The funding, provided through the Rural Infrastructure Fund (RIF), is intended to complete critical infrastructure and bolster rural economies.
"Florida is committed to supporting our rural communities and providing the resources they need for economic growth," stated Governor Ron DeSantis. "These investments will support infrastructure improvement, attract businesses, and create long-term economic success."
J. Alex Kelly, Florida Secretary of Commerce, emphasized the state's commitment to these areas: "Under Governor DeSantis’ leadership, Florida continues to prioritize our rural communities. These strategic, targeted investments are focused on job creators – these funds will immediately create new jobs and ready sites for new business in the heart of Florida for generations to come."
The RIF program aids in planning and financing infrastructure projects aimed at fostering growth in rural communities. This year saw a record 93 applications requesting over $115 million. All $20 million allocated have been distributed among 17 communities including Cedar Key and Cross City.
The awarded funds will be used for various projects:
- City of Bonifay received $1,233,000 for drainage improvements.
- Cedar Key Water & Sewer District was granted $2,500,000 for rehabilitating lift stations post-Hurricane Idalia.
- City of Chipley obtained $295,000 for extending public sanitary sewer service.
- Town of Cross City secured $620,000 for evaluating and improving potable wells.
- Dixie County received $300,000 for developing a master plan at Cross City Airport.
- Hardee County Industrial Development Authority was given $1,478,822 for constructing a centralized parking area.
- Indian River State College got $1,500,000 for property assessment at Okeechobee School for Boys.
- Jackson County BOCC acquired $1,665,000 to enhance the public sewer system along US 231.
- Town of Lee received $1,100,000 for waterline upgrades servicing Madison County Industrial Park.
- City of Live Oak was awarded $559,365 to rehabilitate an existing lift station.
- City of Marianna secured $1,655,000 for facility upgrades expected to create 110 new jobs.
- City of Perry obtained $1,396,319 to rebuild a lift station preventing sewer overflows.
- Sebring Airport Authority received two allocations totaling $600,000 for road improvements within Logistics Park at Sebring Regional Airport.
- City of Sneads was granted $84,500 for urgent water system repairs following FDEP inspections.
- Wakulla County secured $4,504,369 to support Project Boomer with land acquisition and facility construction efforts creating 42 new jobs while retaining 79 jobs.
- Washington County got $67,500 for a feasibility study on current infrastructure readiness for commercial development.
- City of Wauchula was awarded $441125 for street expansion expected to create 40 new jobs.
Further information on the Rural Infrastructure Fund can be accessed online.