TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – Today, Governor Scott announced that more than $1.6 million has been awarded to support projects in rural communities across the state. This grant funding was provided through the Rural Infrastructure Fund to help with the planning, preparation and financing of infrastructure projects in rural communities. These projects will result in job creation, capital investment and the strengthening and diversification of Florida’s rural economies. During Gov. Scott’s time in office, every county has had a decrease in unemployment and every region in Florida has experienced job growth.

Governor Scott said, “Over the last seven and a half years, Florida’s economy has created 1.5 million jobs because we’ve focused on allowing our private sector to grow. In fact, during my time as Governor, the unemployment rate in every Florida county has gone down. These rural grants continue our mission of supporting important economic development in all parts of our state. We will never stop working to make Florida number one for jobs.”

Cissy Proctor, Executive Director of the Florida Department of Economic Opportunity, said, “The Rural Infrastructure Fund is an important economic development tool used to benefit our state’s rural communities allowing them to attract businesses and create jobs. Rural communities provide unique assets that play a vital role in our economy and we are proud to partner with these communities to help them accomplish their economic goals.”

The City of Fernandina Beach, Liberty County and the City of Marianna have been selected to receive Rural Infrastructure Fund grants.

City of Fernandina Beach ($882,622) – To develop and construct a new general aviation terminal building at the Fernandina Beach Municipal Airport.

Liberty County ($50,000) – To aid future expansion for the Hosford and Telogia water systems to support commercial development.

City of Marianna ($735,885) – For the construction of a water main, which will connect the existing system at the intersection of Old Cottondale Road and State Road 276 to allow for warehouse expansion.

The Florida Department of Economic Opportunity is still reviewing applications for grants available in the Rural Infrastructure Fund. For more information, visit FloridaJobs.org/RIF.

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