Lake Butler and Live Oak were among 19 small and rural communities on Thursday to receive funds through the rural Florida Small Cities Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) program.

Gov. Ron DeSantis announced more than $38 million in awards to rural towns and counties. According to the press release, the investments will fund neighborhood revitalization, housing rehabilitation, public infrastructure and commercial revitalization projects.

Live Oak was awarded $4.5 million, which will include $3 million for potable water system improvements and $1.5 million to rehabilitate or replace 21 homes for lower-income households.

Lake Butler received $2.8 million to replace undersized wastewater pipes with 15,00 feet of new force main.

Columbia County ($1.2 million) and Levy County ($750,000) were awarded funds to rehabilitate or replace homes for low-income families

“Our state’s small and rural cities drive key industries, support Florida families, and keep our economy moving,” said DeSantis in the release. “Today in Arcadia, I was proud to announce a new round of strategic investments through this program. These funds will support neighborhood revitalization, housing rehabilitation, and infrastructure development in 19 communities throughout Florida.” 

The Florida Small Cities CDBG program is funded by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) and administered by the FloridaCommerce. The program provides resources to municipalities and counties. Since 2019, Florida has awarded more than $138 million to over 120 communities through this program.

“Under to Governor DeSantis’ leadership, FloridaCommerce continues to invest in critical infrastructure in Florida’s small and rural communities,” said Florida Secretary of Commerce, J. Alex Kelly, in the release. “These awards strengthen the foundation of these local economies, enhance quality of life and support a more resilient and prosperous future in the heart of Florida.”