$25 million in cost-share dollars up for grabs

PALATKA, Fla., March 11, 2016 — The St. Johns River Water Management District is accepting applications through April 22 to share in $25 million in cost-share funding for water supply, water quality, natural systems and flood protection construction projects.

“The district is excited to continue its funding partnerships on construction projects that will help local communities stretch their dollars further,” said St. Johns River Water Management District Executive Director Dr. Ann Shortelle. “Projects will focus on water conservation, the development of alternative water supplies, improving water quality, enhancing natural systems or providing flood protection.”

Projects may include alternative water supply projects, stormwater or surface water treatment and enhancement projects, wastewater treatment plant upgrades, and water conservation enhancements. Other eligible projects may improve water quality, reduce nutrients, restore natural systems or protect against flooding.

Two workshops will be held:

  • March 22 at 11 a.m. at district headquarters, 4049 Reid St., Palatka; and
  • March 24 at 11 a.m. at the district’s Maitland Service Center, 601South Lake Destiny Road, Suite 200, Maitland.Projects are eligible for a maximum district cost-share of 10 percent of the total available funds,or a maximum of $2.5 million per project and per applicant. Projects may span a maximum of two years and must start by June 30, 2017. Those that are permitted and ready to begin construction will receive a higher score during the review process.

    The district will fund up to 33 percent of the construction costs for selected alternative water supply, water quality, flood protection and natural systems projects and up to 50 percent for water conservation projects. Rural Economic Development Initiative (REDI) communities shall submit a waiver of matching funds letter.

    Complete applications should be emailed to funding@sjrwmd.com by 5 p.m. April 22. For more information, visit the cost-share program Web page at www.sjrwmd.com/funding/.