Governor DeSantis Awards $38 Million to Strengthen Florida’s Small and Rural Communities
ARCADIA, Fla. – Governor Ron DeSantis announced more than $38 million in funding for 19 small and rural Florida communities through the Florida Small Cities Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) program. The awards will support public infrastructure improvements, neighborhood revitalization, housing rehabilitation, and commercial revitalization projects across the state.
“Our state's small and rural cities drive key industries, support Florida families, and keep our economy moving,” said Governor DeSantis. “These funds will strengthen communities, improve infrastructure, and enhance quality of life for residents across Florida.”
Strategic Investments for Local Growth
The Florida Small Cities CDBG program, funded by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) and administered by FloridaCommerce, provides essential resources to municipalities and counties. Since 2019, Florida has awarded over $138 million to more than 120 communities through this program.
“Under Governor DeSantis’ leadership, FloridaCommerce continues to invest in critical infrastructure in Florida’s small and rural communities,” said Florida Secretary of Commerce J. Alex Kelly. “These awards strengthen local economies, enhance quality of life, and support a more resilient and prosperous future for Florida residents.”
Highlights of the 2025 Awards
City of Arcadia – $6.4 million to upgrade the William Tyson Wastewater Treatment Plant, benefiting nearly 8,000 residents.
City of Florida City – $5.9 million for wastewater system upgrades across nine service areas, serving nearly 12,000 residents.
City of Live Oak – $4.5 million, including $3 million for potable water system improvements and $1.5 million to rehabilitate or replace 21 homes for lower-income households.
City of Webster – $2.89 million for a new master lift station and emergency generator.
City of Lake Butler – $2.8 million to replace undersized wastewater pipes with 15,000 feet of new force main.
City of Port St. Joe – $1.7 million for neighborhood infrastructure upgrades, including underground utilities, sidewalks, and landscaping.
City of Green Cove Springs – $1.2 million for stormwater improvements.
City of Blountstown – $1 million to replace aging water and sewer lines and improve streets.
Liberty County – $1 million to improve Veterans Memorial Park.
Santa Rosa County – $1 million for retention pond construction at Whiting Aviation Park, creating 10 new jobs and retaining 19.
Town of Esto – $949,000 for water plant improvements and water line replacements.
Town of Malone – $912,000 to expand and renovate Johnny Williams Memorial Park.
Housing Rehabilitation Awards
Funding was also designated to rehabilitate or replace homes for low-income families:
Hamilton County – $1.5 million
Lafayette County – $1.5 million
Columbia County – $1.2 million
Madison County – $950,000
Hendry County – $900,000
St. Lucie County – $850,000
Levy County – $750,000
These investments aim to enhance public infrastructure, strengthen neighborhoods, and improve housing conditions, providing both immediate benefits and long-term growth opportunities for Florida’s small and rural communities.