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by Fox 49 Staff
BONIFAY, Fla. — Nearly $8.8 million in state funding is headed to 12 small and rural communities across Northwest Florida to pay for infrastructure upgrades and long-term planning projects aimed at strengthening local economies.
Gov. Ron DeSantis announced the awards in Bonifay, saying the money will support critical infrastructure investments and community development projects through the Small Cities Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Program and the Community Planning Technical Assistance (CPTA) Grant Program.
“This morning in Bonifay, I was pleased to announce more than $8.8 million in funding for critical infrastructure and community development projects in 12 small and rural Florida communities,” DeSantis said. “These Community Development Block Grant awards will help improve water and wastewater systems, stormwater infrastructure, roads, and workforce housing. These investments promote long-term economic growth that will help rural Florida families thrive for many years to come.”
Secretary of Commerce J. Alex Kelly said the funding will help communities address infrastructure needs and improve resiliency.
“Strong infrastructure and thoughtful community planning are essential to creating opportunities in Florida’s small and rural communities,” Kelly said. “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. These projects give local leaders the resources they need to build stronger communities, support businesses and create greater opportunities for Floridians.”
Seven communities will receive awards through the Small Cities CDBG Program:
The city of Blountstown will receive $1,185,576 to implement improvements to its aging wastewater collection and treatment facility.
The city of Bonifay will receive $1.5 million to construct utility infrastructure improvements through the Decon Road Sewer Extension project.
The city of Bristol will receive $786,440 to address potable water issues associated with the Shuler Lane well and waterline replacement project.
The city of Gretna will receive $1,257,800 to improve the city’s wastewater treatment facility and make paving and roadway improvements along 6th Street.
Franklin County will receive $1,769,250 to improve water and sewer infrastructure while supporting future workforce housing development.
Liberty County will receive $1,260,540 to improve the Bristol Boat Ramp roadway, providing primary access to the Apalachicola River.
The town of Malone will receive $622,375 to rehabilitate two potable water wells and improve the town’s public water system.
Five communities and organizations will receive awards through the CPTA Grant Program, with each receiving $75,000:
The Apalachee Regional Planning Council will conduct a Regional Vertiport Study for Calhoun, Franklin, Gadsden, Gulf, Jackson, Jefferson, Leon, Liberty and Wakulla counties.
The city of Chipley will complete an Economic Readiness and Planning Implementation Strategy.
The city of Freeport will update its Comprehensive Plan to support long-term industrial and commercial development.
Holmes County will develop the county’s GIS and Public Planning Map.
The town of Century will develop a hydraulic model of the town’s municipal drinking water system.
The Small Cities CDBG Program is funded by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development and administered by FloridaCommerce. It provides funding to eligible local governments for infrastructure, housing and economic development activities that principally benefit low- and moderate-income residents.
The CPTA Grant Program provides funding to help communities create strategic plans to address local economic challenges, meet statutory planning requirements and assist in community resiliency efforts.
2026 Sinclair, Inc.
DeSantis awards nearly $8.8 million for rural projects across Northwest Florida – wtwcfox
