Governor Desantis’ office has announced that 19 rural and small communities in Florida will receive more than $38 million in infrastructure, housing and neighborhood development. Funds provided through the Florida Small Urban Community Development Block Grant Program and managed by the Florida Department of Commerce will support projects such as wastewater system upgrades, stormwater improvements, park renovations and affordable residential rehabilitation.
Key investments include $6.4 million for Arcadia to upgrade its wastewater treatment plant, $5.9 million for Florida’s wastewater system, and $4.5 million for Live Oak to improve water services and support low-income households with housing needs. Additional grants were distributed to Hamilton, Lafayette, Columbia, Madison, Hendry, St. Lucie and Levy County for residential rehabilitation projects. Since 2019, the program has directed more than $138 million to more than 120 communities, strengthening Florida’s rural economy and improving the quality of life statewide.
From private investment, AT&T said $5.5 billion invested in strengthening and expanding network infrastructure from 2020 to 2024 has been successful.
In addition to faster internet, AT&T Fiber is deployed to over 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, but supports public safety through first responder FirstNet. AT&T is partnering with schools and learning centers across the state to close digital disparities.
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 “The Art of Politing” podcast. During the episode, Sheriff Adkinson and Commissioner Simpson discussed many 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) and its impact on public trusts on social media.
Liberty partner of Tallahassee President and CEO Jennifer Green says that all the investment and dollars spent is improving the state’s rural communities.
