Government and Politics
October 31, 2022
From: Florida Governor Ron DeSantisTALLAHASSEE, FL — On Oct 27th, Governor Ron DeSantis announced $4.9 million in infrastructure investments to eight rural Northwest Florida communities through the Rural Infrastructure Fund (RIF) program. Awards include upgrading water and wastewater utilities, constructing public roadways and public building renovations. These awards will support business growth in Calhoun, Gadsden, Holmes, Jackson, Liberty and Washington counties.
“When we invest in infrastructure improvements, we are building a foundation of success for Floridians in our rural communities,” said Governor Ron DeSantis. “These investments will attract and expand business opportunities, facilitate the creation of good-paying jobs, and diversify local economies which will strengthen Florida Panhandle communities for generations.”
“Under Governor DeSantis’ leadership, DEO is proud to administer the Rural Infrastructure Fund to support infrastructure improvements that will keep Florida’s economy strong to withstand future storms and national economic conditions,” said DEO Secretary Dane Eagle. “These improvements will continue to shape the future of Florida by providing communities with the resources their residents need to start and expand their businesses, support their families, and enrich their communities.”
In 2022, the Legislature appropriated $30 million for eligible communities under the RIF program to assist in economic development projects in rural communities, of which $5 million is specifically for local governments in Calhoun, Gadsden, Holmes, Jackson, Liberty, and Washington counties and all municipalities within their boundaries.
The RIF program is administered by the Florida Department of Economic Opportunity (DEO) and provides funding to facilitate the planning, preparing, and financing of infrastructure projects in rural communities that encourage job creation, capital investment, and the strengthening and diversification of rural economies.
The following communities will receive awards through the RIF Program funds:
For more information about the RIF Program, please visit www.FloridaJobs.org/RIF.