Florida News
Published Aug. 20, 2026, 2:16 p.m. ET | Updated Aug. 20, 2026
BONIFAY, Fla. — Gov. Ron DeSantis announced $8.8 million Thursday for infrastructure and community development projects across 12 small and rural Northwest Florida communities, while highlighting his administration’s focus on rural areas, hurricane preparedness and property tax relief.
Speaking in Holmes County, DeSantis said his administration has prioritized communities outside Florida’s major population centers throughout his time in office.
“I was the first governor to do public events in all 67 Florida counties,” DeSantis said. “I don’t think anyone has done any more for rural than our administration in the history of Florida.”
NOW: Florida is investing another $8.8 million into 12 small and rural Northwest Florida communities for critical infrastructure and development projects.@GovRonDeSantis: "I don’t think anyone has done any more for rural than our administration in the history of Florida.” pic.twitter.com/jdSuaXxnkO
The awards include $1.5 million for Bonifay to construct utility infrastructure improvements through the Deacon Road Sewer Extension Project and $75,000 for Holmes County to develop a GIS and public planning map.
Other funding will support water, wastewater, stormwater, road and planning projects in communities including Blountstown, Bristol, Gretna, Franklin County, Liberty County and Malone.
DeSantis also addressed hurricane preparedness as Florida enters what is typically the most active stretch of the season, joking about forecasts after years of predictions for particularly severe seasons.
“This year was the first time in eight years where it was like forecasters are predicting mild hurricane season, and I’m like, man, should I be worried?” DeSantis said.
WATCH: DeSantis jokes about this year's hurricane forecast@GovRonDeSantis: “Forecasters are predicting mild hurricane season, and I’m like, man, should I be worried?” pic.twitter.com/x0lA3MJFml
He cautioned that a milder overall season does not eliminate the threat to Florida.
“You can have a supposed more weak one, but all it takes is one to get hit,” DeSantis said, adding that Florida continues preparing regardless of forecasts.
DeSantis also touted Florida’s fiscal position, saying the state has reduced spending, paid down debt and built reserves while continuing to fund priorities including roads, Everglades restoration, teacher pay increases and law enforcement recruitment bonuses.
The governor said the combination of a strong state surplus and lower spending gives Florida flexibility to provide property tax relief while continuing to support rural communities.
“This is a chance to do it,” DeSantis said. “You guys will be able to benefit, and then we’ll be there on the rural to be able to help.”
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DeSantis announces $8.8 million for rural Northwest Florida communities – Florida’s Voice
