Governor DeSantis’ office announced that 19 rural and small communities in Florida will receive more than $38 million in infrastructure, housing, and neighborhood development. The funding, provided through the Florida Small Cities Community Development Block Grant program and administered by the Florida Department of Commerce, will support projects such as wastewater system upgrades, stormwater improvements, park renovations, and affordable housing rehabilitation.
Major investments include $6.4 million for the City of Arcadia to upgrade its wastewater treatment plant, $5.9 million for Florida City’s wastewater systems, and $4.5 million for the City of Live Oak to improve water services and assist low-income households with housing needs. Additional grants were distributed to Hamilton, Lafayette, Columbia, Madison, Hendry, St. Lucie, and Levy Counties for housing rehabilitation projects. Since 2019, the program has directed more than $138 million to over 120 communities, strengthening Florida’s rural economies and improving quality of life across the state.
From private investment, AT&T says the $5.5 billion invested in strengthening and expanding network infrastructure from 2020-2024 is becoming a success.
In addition to quicker internet, AT&T Fiber has been deployed to more than 2.5 million customers in over 165 cities across the state. Additionally, AT&T is working to expand 5G coverage in rural and urban areas, while also supporting public safety through FirstNet for first responders. AT&T is also partnering with schools and learning centers throughout the state to close the digital divide.
Walton County Sheriff Mike Adkinson was recently joined by Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS) Commissioner Wilton Simpson on an episode of “The Art of Policing” podcast. During the episode, Sheriff Adkinson and Commissioner Simpson discussed numerous topics, including FDACS’ public safety and consumer protection responsibilities. Commissioner Simpson also highlighted his agency’s work with the Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE), as well as the impact of social media on public trust.
Liberty Partners of Tallahassee President & CEO Jennifer Green says all of the investment and dollars being spent is improving the rural communities in the state.
