FloridaCommerce has announced the allocation of over $2.9 million for long-term recovery projects in communities affected by Hurricane Ian. This funding will support 25 projects across 19 communities through the Rebuild Florida Hurricane Ian Hazard Mitigation Grant Match Program (HMGMP). The funds are intended to assist local governments that qualify for the FEMA Hazard Mitigation Grant Program, which mandates a 25 percent local contribution.
The funding is sourced from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development’s Community Development Block Grant – Disaster Recovery Program. According to Florida Secretary of Commerce J. Alex Kelly, “Under Governor Ron DeSantis’ leadership, FloridaCommerce continues to prioritize funding impactful projects that support recovery efforts and harden infrastructure in Florida’s most vulnerable communities.” He further emphasized the importance of these projects in light of past hurricanes such as Idalia, Debby, Helene, and Milton.
Among the funded initiatives are various infrastructure improvements and installations aimed at enhancing resilience against future storms. Some notable projects include installing permanent generators in critical facilities in several cities like Arcadia, Eagle Lake, Lake Wales, Longwood, Marathon, Palm Coast, St. Petersburg, Wauchula, Winter Springs, and others.
In addition to generator installations, other significant undertakings involve flood control structures in Longwood and stormwater management improvements in Marathon and Okeechobee County. The Greater Naples Fire Rescue District and Johns Hopkins All Children’s Hospital are set to receive funds for repairing and strengthening existing critical facilities.
For more details about these initiatives or how to apply for similar programs, interested parties can visit the Rebuild Florida Hurricane Ian HMGMP webpage or contact CDBG-DR@Commerce.fl.gov.