Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis (R) announced $80 million is being warded to multiple South Florida communities to help develop and revitalize storm infrastructure projects. The projects are a part of the Florida Department of Economic Opportunity’s (DEO) Rebuild Florida Mitigation General Infrastructure Program.
The City of Miami will receive almost $20 million to support flooding and stormwater inlets. Miami will receive an additional $18.4 million to go to the community of East Little Havana to alleviate repeated flooding issues.
Broward County is receiving $16.6 million, Hallandale Beach is receiving $14.8 million, the City of Opa-Locka is receiving $7 million, and the City of North Lauderdale is receiving just over $3 million.
“Florida’s economy and communities are thriving because we invest in projects that make meaningful impacts,” said DeSantis in a release. “Today we were able to devote $80 million to fund projects that support economic growth, protect our environment, and improve hurricane mitigation – this is how you build strong communities.”
DeSantis was joined at the announcement by Miami Mayor Francis Suarez who said these investments end up protecting billions of dollars worth of property.
“This is going to protect $1.6 billion worth of property,” said Suarez. “So when you think about spending $40 million, you know, that’s a lot of money, but you’re protecting $1.6 billion worth of property, so it’s a good investment.”
Governor DeSantis is awarding over $80 million for infrastructure projects in South Florida. https://t.co/7s6iwmokFq
— Ron DeSantis (@GovRonDeSantis) January 28, 2022
DEO Secretary Dane Eagle, whose department is overseeing the entirety of the program, said these projects help ensure Florida’s resiliency.
“Hardening Florida’s infrastructure is critical to ensuring that our state remains prepared and equipped to withstand any future natural disasters,” said Eagle. “I am proud to stand with Governor DeSantis as he awards more than $80 million to communities in South Florida, and we will remain diligent in protecting homes, businesses, and the livelihoods of Floridians for years to come.”
DeSantis has recently been prioritizing environmental infrastructure and flood prevention. In December, DeSantis requested lawmakers to appropriate $276 million for 76 state projects prioritized by the Florida Department of Environmental Protection.
He also announced a separate $100 million for water quality projects.
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Grant Holcomb is a reporter at the Florida Capital Star and the Star News Network. Follow Grant on Twitter and direct message tips.
Photo “infrastructure projects” by Governor Ron DeSantis.
