Gov. Ron DeSantis has approved nearly $15.6 million for infrastructure improvements and development plans in small and rural communities in Florida.
Some 23 rural areas across the state will be getting a cut of the funding that will help pay for community projects and other essential infrastructure improvements. The funding is coming from the state’s Small Cities Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) and Community Planning Technical Assistance (CPTA) Grant programs.
“Florida’s success begins with strong communities,” said Secretary of Commerce J. Alex Kelly.
“Under Gov. DeSantis’ leadership, Florida is investing in projects that improve critical infrastructure, strengthen local economies and create new opportunities for Florida families, job seekers and job creators to thrive — getting communities the resources they need to support long-term economic growth and build an even brighter future.”
Kelly oversees FloridaCommerce, the state’s economic development bureau which distributes much of the funding approved by DeSantis. The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development sources much of the funding for the Small Cities CDBG and the CPTA programs.
Both of those programs provide funding for the infrastructure projects such as road development and housing development to benefit low- and moderate-income residents. They also help develop strategic plans designed to address economic challenges.
Much of the funding headed for the municipalities include projects such as sewer lift stations, water supply facilities, drainage improvements, parks and recreation plans, transportation development, tourist development, technical assistance and economic development plans among dozens of other services.
The communities receiving the CDBG grants include:
— City of Avon Park, $2.15 million.
— City of Coleman, $3 million.
— Hamilton County, $2.77 million.
— Hardee County, $1.86 million.
— Town of Bronson, $1.38 million.
— Town of Horseshoe Beach, $3 million.
The locales and agencies receiving CPTA funding include:
— Bradford County, $75,000.
— Central Florida Regional Planning Council, $75,000.
— City of Everglades, $66,035.
— City of Green Cove Springs, $75,000.
— City of LaBelle, $60,000.
— City of Perry, $86,825.
— Dixie County, $75,000.
— Hardee County, $48,000.
— Hendry County, $40,000.
— Highlands County, $50,000.
— Jefferson County, $65,000.
— Levy County, $75,000.
— North Florida Economic Development Partnership, $75,000.
— Putnam County, $65,000.
— Town of Havana, $75,000.
— Town of Horseshoe Beach, $75,000.
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