Florida Construction News staff writer
An additional $2.1 million was announced this week for Florida’s military-supporting infrastructure, bringing the total investment through the Defense Reinvestment Grant Program to $6.3 million since 2019. The funds will support key projects aimed at enhancing military readiness, diversifying local economies, and upgrading infrastructure across the state.
Several projects funded in this round of grants are expected to create opportunities for construction companies and related industries, including:
Cape Canaveral Space Force Station Wastewater Treatment Plant: $106,500
- The Economic Development Commission of Florida’s Space Coast will continue developing the third phase of its wastewater treatment plant at Cape Canaveral Space Force Station. The project is vital to support the station’s growing infrastructure needs, offering opportunities for contractors specializing in utilities and environmental construction.
Cyber Defense Facility at Corry Station: $250,000
- The Pensacola-Escambia Promotion and Development Commission received funding to develop advanced cyber defense facilities near Corry Station. This project will involve construction of secure, high-tech facilities, providing opportunities for contractors in specialized construction, security systems, and IT infrastructure.
Barefoot Palms Development Plan: $220,000
- Bay County has been awarded funding to create an Area Development Plan for Barefoot Palms, a property adjacent to Naval Support Activity Panama City. The plan may lead to land development and site preparation for military and defense-related projects, offering construction and planning opportunities.
Land Swap Master Plan for Naval Air Station: $250,000
- Santa Rosa County will use the grant to create a master plan for a land swap with the U.S. Navy, potentially leading to new infrastructure projects to support military needs in the region.
First Coast Expressway Development: $230,000
- The Clay County Economic Development Corporation will use funding to enhance the development of the First Coast Expressway. This will include road construction and other infrastructure improvements that could impact the regional defense economy.
Young-Rainey STAR Center Redevelopment: $250,000
- Pinellas County will use its funding to create redevelopment specifications for the former U.S. Department of Energy’s Young-Rainey STAR Center. The project could lead to construction of new facilities for science and technology, expanding Florida’s defense and aerospace sectors.
“These projects are a key part of our efforts to make Florida the most military-friendly state in the nation,” said J. Alex Kelly, Secretary of Commerce. “They will help ensure that our military installations and defense industries continue to innovate and grow.”
Since 2019, the program has provided about $6.3 million in funding to support a range of military infrastructure and community development projects.
For more information on the Defense Reinvestment Grant Program and other military community initiatives, visit the Office of Military and Defense website.