Funding supports storm recovery, resilience, and long-term economic growth in 34 small and rural communities
STEINHATCHEE, Fla. (Jan. 7, 2026) — Florida Secretary of Commerce J. Alex Kelly joined Governor Ron DeSantis in Steinhatchee today to announce $167.5 million in infrastructure awards benefiting 34 small and rural communities across Florida.
The funding, awarded through the Community Development Block Grant–Disaster Recovery (CDBG-DR) Infrastructure Repair Program and the state’s Rural Infrastructure Fund (RIF), is designed to help communities recover from recent storm impacts, strengthen critical infrastructure, and position rural areas for long-term economic growth.
“Today, I announced funding for critical infrastructure projects in 34 small and rural Florida communities,” said Governor DeSantis. “These awards will bolster long-term recovery efforts in areas affected by major storms in 2023 and 2024, while also helping ensure our rural communities remain competitive, resilient, and full of opportunity for Florida families.”
Secretary Kelly emphasized the broader impact of the investments on everyday life and economic stability in rural Florida.
“For many of the communities hit hardest by recent storms, these projects represent far more than infrastructure repairs,” Kelly said. “They are foundational investments that restore essential services, strengthen resilience, and support long-term economic recovery.”
Infrastructure Investment Highlights
The awarded funds will support a wide range of infrastructure improvements, including:
- Water and wastewater system upgrades
- Stormwater drainage and flood-mitigation projects
- Emergency power and communications systems
- Roadway and bridge repairs
- Economic development and utility infrastructure
Notable projects include:
- Taylor County / City of Perry: Nearly $36 million to enhance wastewater infrastructure, construct a new parallel treatment train, and establish resilient independent water capacity.
- Taylor County Board of County Commissioners: Funding for residential road repairs in Steinhatchee and construction of a special-needs emergency shelter.
- Cross City: More than $37 million to build a new wastewater treatment facility and upgrade stormwater drainage systems.
- Port St. Joe: $25 million to rebuild and reinforce wastewater treatment infrastructure.
- Cedar Key Water & Sewer District: Over $11 million to construct and harden potable water and wastewater systems.
In addition to disaster-recovery projects, the Rural Infrastructure Fund will support economic development initiatives such as roadway improvements, airport infrastructure upgrades, industrial park planning, and utility enhancements aimed at attracting private investment and job creation.
Strengthening Resilience and Economic Opportunity
The infrastructure investments arrive as many rural communities continue recovering from a series of severe weather events that damaged aging infrastructure and disrupted essential services. By reinforcing critical systems and improving long-term sustainability, Florida is working to ensure rural communities are better prepared for future challenges while remaining attractive to businesses and residents.
About the Funding Programs
The Community Development Block Grant–Disaster Recovery (CDBG-DR) program supports the rebuilding and hardening of essential infrastructure damaged by federally recognized disasters.
The Rural Infrastructure Fund (RIF) helps rural communities finance infrastructure projects that promote economic development and resilience. Demand for the program continues to grow, with the current funding cycle receiving a record number of applications.
