Funding will help elevate rural development efforts in the region

Today, the Hamilton County Development Authority (HCDA) announced it was awarded $400,000 for crucial infrastructure enhancements through the Florida Department of Commerce’s Rural Infrastructure Fund (RIF) Program. The award was included in more than $24 million in awards to sixteen rural communities by Governor Ron DeSantis.

The award is the second such announcement over the last year. In 2022, the HCDA was awarded $5.4 million in funding from the Governor’s Florida Job Growth Grant Fund to facilitate the buildout of a 57-acre parcel at the intersection of I-75 and SR-6 in Hamilton County. The planned development will include a logistics park and travel center and will have the potential for future manufacturing opportunities.

Infrastructure and site readiness are key drivers to locating new and expanding industry to the county. The awards will allow the HCDA to improve available parcels and access points enhancing the county’s position for private investment and job creation.

“We are honored and grateful to receive this funding, a crucial investment that will pave the way for key improvements in our community,” said Chadd Mathis, Economic Development Director of the Hamilton County Development Authority. “This funding is a testament to our commitment to enhancing and fortifying the infrastructure that underpins the growth and prosperity of our rural area.”

This latest award will facilitate the property redevelopment at the first exit visitors and tourists experience on 1-75 as they enter Florida. These enhancements are anticipated to play a pivotal role in attracting new business ventures and creating employment opportunities.

“We are thrilled to be a recipient of this grant and thankful to Governor DeSantis and Secretary Kelly for their continued support of our county. This is yet another milestone achievement that will fuel essential improvements in our community,” said Nathaniel Combass, Chair of the Hamilton County Development Authority Board.

Learn more about the Rural Infrastructure Fund Program.