In a morning appearance in Bonifay, Governor Ron DeSantis unveiled more than $8.8 million in grant funding earmarked for essential infrastructure upgrades in twelve small and rural communities across Northwest Florida. The money comes from two state‑administered programs: the Small Cities Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Program, which leverages federal HUD funds, and the Community Planning Technical Assistance (CPTA) Grant Program, funded by the state.
Major construction awards
The bulk of the funding—over $8.3 million—will be directed toward construction and utility projects through the Small Cities CDBG program, managed by FloridaCommerce. Seven local governments received sizable awards:
- Franklin County: $1,769,250 to upgrade water and sewer lines and support upcoming workforce‑housing projects.
- City of Bonifay: $1,500,000 for utility work tied to the Decon Road Sewer Extension.
- Liberty County: $1,260,540 to resurface the road leading to the Bristol Boat Ramp on the Apalachicola River.
- City of Gretna: $1,257,800 for wastewater‑treatment plant upgrades and paving along 6th Street.
- City of Blountstown: $1,185,576 to repair aging wastewater collection and treatment facilities.
- City of Bristol: $786,440 to resolve drinking‑water issues linked to the Shuler Lane well and waterline project.
- Town of Malone: $622,375 to restore two drinking‑water wells and improve the municipal water network.
Planning assistance grants
Five additional entities received $75,000 each through the CPTA program, which supports long‑range planning, land‑use strategy and municipal modeling:
- Apalachee Regional Planning Council – funding a Regional Vertiport Study covering nine counties.
- City of Chipley – drafting an Economic Readiness and Planning Implementation Strategy.
- City of Freeport – updating its Comprehensive Plan for future commercial and industrial growth.
- Holmes County – building a public GIS and planning map.
- Town of Century – constructing a digital hydraulic model of its municipal drinking‑water system.
State officials emphasize impact on families
Secretary of Commerce J. Alex Kelly highlighted the role of strong infrastructure and thoughtful planning in creating opportunities for Florida’s small‑town families. “Under Governor DeSantis’ leadership, these investments will help communities address critical water, wastewater, roadway and infrastructure needs while strengthening economic readiness and long‑term resiliency,” Kelly said.
The Small Cities CDBG program draws from federal HUD funds and targets projects that primarily assist low‑ and moderate‑income residents. By improving water and wastewater systems, storm‑water infrastructure, roads and workforce housing, the grants aim to support rural families and local businesses for years to come.
Looking ahead
State officials note that detailed information about both grant programs is available through FloridaCommerce. The infusion of nearly $8.8 million represents a significant investment in the region’s physical foundation, with the expectation that upgraded utilities and better‑planned growth will attract new businesses, retain residents and enhance overall quality of life in Northwest Florida’s rural communities.
Original reporting: Tampa Free Press — read the source article.
