Appropriations Requests
Fiscal Year 2027 Appropriations Requests
Project Name: City of Ocoee for Ocoee Drinking Water Resiliency Project
Requested Amount: $4,224,000
Intended Recipient: City of Ocoee
Recipient Address: 1 N Bluford Ave, Ocoee, FL 34761
Request Explanation: This project strengthens the City’s drinking water system by expanding supply, improving water quality, and ensuring uninterrupted service for residents and businesses during an emergency or extreme weather event. Constructing a new drinking water well reduces reliance on two existing wells affected by PFAS contamination, directly protecting public health. Upsizing the transmission main and adding a new chlorination assembly increase system redundancy, operational flexibility, and long-term reliability. These improvements benefit the local community, Florida’s Congressional District 11, and the State of Florida by enhancing water resource resilience, supporting economic stability, and aligning with state and federal priorities for safe, sustainable drinking water. The project also advances national goals for PFAS mitigation and critical infrastructure modernization. Federal investment in this project is an appropriate use of taxpayer resources because it directly supports the federal government’s established role in protecting public health, ensuring access to safe drinking water, and safeguarding the nation’s water infrastructure. By reducing PFAS exposure, strengthening critical infrastructure, and improving system resilience, this project advances national priorities for environmental protection and public health. These benefits extend beyond the local community to the broader interests of Florida’s Congressional District 11, the State of Florida, and the nation.
Certification of Financial Disclosure
Project Name: Town of Oakland for North Pollard Street Wastewater Extension
Requested Amount: $1,500,000
Intended Recipient: Town of Oakland
Recipient Address: P.O. Box 98, Oakland, FL 34760
Request Explanation: The funding of this project will assist the Town of Oakland in meeting mandates related to environmental stewardship such as a reduction in the contamination of groundwater supplies caused by poorly maintained septic systems; it will also assist low to moderate income households to end their reliance on traditional septic systems. The reduction or elimination of septic systems reaches far beyond the boundaries of Oakland, Congressional District 11, and even the State. By capturing this waste product and effectively processing it through treatment plants, they end up making it again useful as reclaimed water. Federal resources can be utilized in instances where the general welfare of the citizens is at stake. In the Town of Oakland's particular case, the threat to the environment is readily acknowledged by all, and the benefit of having a central sewer system within Oakland is paramount. With the initiation of state regulations pertaining to the minimizing of nutrients entering our groundwater reserves; our precious lakes and rivers; and our magnificent flowing springs; the State of Florida has set the stage for unprecedented environmental improvements. The Town of Oakland is respectfully requesting that the Federal Government assist us in doing our fair share to minimize this threat.
Certification of Financial Disclosure
Project Name: Polk City for Wastewater Treatment Facility Upgrades
Requested Amount: $5,000,000
Intended Recipient: Polk City
Recipient Address: 123 Broadway Boulevard SE, Polk City, FL 33868
Request Explanation: This project would benefit all residents because it would eliminate the need of significant upgrades to wastewater fees which would be funded through charges directly to customers. This project will significantly improve community resiliency by constructing modern wastewater system which will include anoxic, aerobic, and secondary anoxic treatment for removal of cBOD and Nitrogren. This funding request is an appropriate use of federal taxpayer money because it protects public health, improves the environment of the Green Swamp Area of Critical State Concern, and increases water quality by effectively managing and cleaning wastewater before it is released back into natural ecosystems.
Certification of Financial Disclosure
Project Name: City of Fruitland Park SRF Eligible WWTP Reclaimed Water System
Requested Amount: $3,761,680
Intended Recipient: City of Fruitland Park
Recipient Address: 506 W Berckman St, Fruitland Park, FL 34731
Request Explanation: Over the past decade, Lake County has experienced exponential growth largely driven by the continued expansion of The Villages. The U.S. Census data show that The Villages’ population increased by more than 50 percent between 2010 and 2020, with continued growth of nearly 4 percent annually in recent years, placing pressure on aging regional infrastructure. A portion of The Villages lies within the municipal boundaries of the City of Fruitland Park, including approximately 693 acres annexed into the city. In 2015 Fruitland Park, faced with a failing wastewater treatment plant (WWTP), entered into a 10-year agreement with neighboring city, the Town of Lady Lake, to treat Fruitland Park’s wastewater, using the Lady Lake WWTP excess capacity. Now nearing the end of the decade-long agreement, Lady Lake aims to reclaim its capacity to account for future growth and development. To account for Lady Lake’s increased use of its daily WWTP capacity along with flooding and heavy stormwater from severe storms and hurricanes, Fruitland Park needs its own WWTP to manage the town’s wastewater and to mitigate subsequent overload and overflow issues. Without an adequate WWTP, Fruitland Park faces the degradation of natural and public health as well as water quality. Having its own facility will strengthen Fruitland Park’s resilience and adaptability in the face of increasing population and severe weather events in Florida. As demands on water infrastructure increase, a municipal-owned facility will enable Fruitland Park to responsibly manage development impacts, protect water quality, and ensure long-term public health and environmental resilience.
Certification of Financial Disclosure
Project Name: City of Winter Garden for Crest Avenue Wastewater Treatment Facility Capacity Expansion and Process Optimization
Requested Amount: $5,000,000
Intended Recipient: City of Winter Garden
Recipient Address: 300 West Plant Street, Winter Garden, FL 34787
Request Explanation: The Crest Avenue Wastewater Treatment Facility Expansion and Optimization Project is a responsible use of taxpayer funds because it directly reduces nutrient loading into Lake Apopka—long impaired by harmful algal blooms, invasive vegetation, and degraded water clarity caused by decades of excess nitrogen and phosphorus. The advanced treatment upgrades under construction will significantly improve effluent quality, support regional restoration goals, and reduce environmental and public-health risks. The project also expands reclaimed-water production, lowering reliance on the Floridan Aquifer and benefiting multiple partner communities. Additionally, critical electrical and reliability improvements will ensure uninterrupted wastewater treatment during storms and power failures, protecting both residents and the environment. As a fully designed, permitted, and active construction project, federal funds will accelerate completion and deliver measurable regional benefits efficiently and effectively. This project is an appropriate and constitutional use of taxpayer resources because it directly improves public infrastructure essential for protecting water quality, public health, and regional environmental conditions. By significantly reducing nutrient pollution entering Lake Apopka—long impaired by harmful algal blooms, invasive vegetation, and degraded water clarity—the project advances well established federal environmental objectives and supports ongoing restoration efforts led by state and regional agencies The construction improvements also enhance the reliability of wastewater treatment during storms and emergencies, preventing potential environmental harm and ensuring residents continue to receive safe and compliant service. Federal support for this project therefore promotes measurable, community wide benefits consistent with long standing standards for public purpose funding.
Certification of Financial Disclosure
Project Name: City of Minneola Wastewater Treatment Expansion
Requested Amount: $2,000,000
Intended Recipient: City of Minneola
Recipient Address: P.O. Box 678, Minneola, FL 34715
Request Explanation: The grant funds will be used to expand wastewater treatment services to residential, commercial, and industrial properties, including developers and builders currently in various stages of development. The expansion will ensure that these properties have access to a reliable centralized wastewater treatment system supporting sustainable growth and meeting environmental and regulatory standards. Funding will support expanding wastewater treatment services for newly constructed residential, commercial, and industrial developments. This will provide reliable wastewater collection and treatment, ensuring public health, environmental protection, and sustainable growth. The expansion will also promote economic development and enhance local infrastructure. This project will expand the existing wastewater treatment plant's capacity to 2.5 million gallons per day (MGD), enhancing its ability to manage and treat wastewater effectively. The expansion will support growing community needs, improve environmental sustainability, and ensure the facility can continue to meet regulatory standards while safeguarding public health and water quality.
Certification of Financial Disclosure
Project Name: City of Groveland North Water Reclamation Facility Replacement Project
Requested Amount: $4,750,000
Intended Recipient: City of Groveland
Recipient Address: 156 S Lake Ave, Groveland, FL 34736
Request Explanation: The City of Groveland seeks federal investment to construct a new North Water Reclamation Facility (WRF) to replace the Sunshine Parkway WRF, which has exceeded its intended service life and is nearing permitted capacity. The adopted Facilities Plan states the Sunshine WRF currently treats about 0.55 MGD and is projected to reach 94 percent of its permitted 0.99 MGD capacity by 2031 based only on existing service commitments and developments already under construction, not speculative growth. Operating near capacity increases the risk of treatment inefficiencies, regulatory non-compliance, and service disruptions. The proposed North WRF would be built on a city-owned 25-acre site off Villa City Road in the North Sewer Service Area. The selected alternative includes the treatment facility, a new influent force main, reclaimed water transmission infrastructure, and on-site reclaimed water storage, while continuing to use the City’s existing reclaimed water system and permitted rapid infiltration basins for disposal. The facility will use a biological nutrient removal oxidation ditch process, a proven technology designed to meet Clean Water Act requirements and provide long-term reliability. The Facilities Plan evaluated three alternatives and found the North WRF has the lowest cost, estimated at $75.7 million, compared with higher-cost options requiring wetland impacts, mitigation, or continued reliance on aging infrastructure. Environmental reviews confirmed this site avoids adverse environmental impacts. Federal funding is justified because the project will protect public health, support compliance with federal and state water quality regulations, improve resilience, protect groundwater and nearby surface waters, and advance Basin Management Action Plan goals. The City’s financial analysis shows the project can be supported without additional rate increases, ensuring taxpayer funds address documented infrastructure needs rather than future growth inducement.
Certification of Financial Disclosure
Project Name: Town of Montverde Drinking Water System Improvements
Requested Amount: $4,400,000
Intended Recipient: Town of Montverde
Recipient Address: 17404 Sixth Street, Montverde, FL 34756
Request Explanation: By upgrading treatment facilities, modernizing system monitoring, and repairing undersized and deteriorating water mains, the project will protect public health and support the Town’s long-term sustainability. Average daily water demand has increased to approximately 200,000 gallons per day, exceeding the system’s finished water storage capacity. Existing storage is limited to a 150,000-gallon elevated storage tank, which is insufficient to support peak demands or provide redundancy in the event of system failures. To address these deficiencies, the Town’s Facilities Plan recommends construction of additional finished water storage and supporting infrastructure, including a new elevated storage tank and associated system improvements. Federal funds will be used solely for construction of clearly defined, implementation ready infrastructure that delivers immediate and long-term public benefit. The construction within this project would be as follows: improvements at the two existing WTPs including replacement of standby generators, building repairs, roof replacements; implementation of a new SCADA system for control and monitoring of the Town's three WTPs; and water distribution system repairs including replacement of aging infrastructure, replacement of undersized water main piping creating pressure and flow restrictions, and installation of new piping loops to eliminate distribution system dead ends. Federal participation is critical to closing the project funding gap and accelerating implementation of infrastructure that directly protects public health, supports planned growth, and strengthens emergency preparedness for this small community. This project directly supports federal goals related to drinking water reliability, infrastructure resilience, and community health protection. Federal participation is necessary to close the remaining funding gap for this project and will help ensure safe, reliable drinking water service.
Certification of Financial Disclosure
Project Name: New Clermont Health Center Building Project
Requested Amount: $5,000,000
Intended Recipient: Community Health Centers, Inc.
Recipient Address: 110 S. Woodland Street, Winter Garden, FL 34787
Request Explanation: This request will enable Community Health Centers, Inc. to expand access to affordable, comprehensive healthcare in Clermont and across Lake County, where rapid population growth and provider shortages continue to strain the healthcare system. The new health center will increase access to primary care, dental, and behavioral health services, helping residents receive timely preventive care and better manage chronic conditions. For communities in Florida's 11th congressional district and across Florida, the project will reduce reliance on costly emergency care, strengthen the local healthcare workforce, and support healthier communities—contributing to improved public health outcomes that benefit the nation as a whole. This project is a strong use of taxpayer funds because it expands access to affordable primary and preventive healthcare for residents of Lake County. By increasing access to primary care in Clermont, the new health center will help reduce costly emergency room visits and improve management of chronic diseases, lowering long-term healthcare costs. It also addresses documented provider shortages identified by the Health Resources and Services Administration while creating jobs and strengthening the region’s healthcare infrastructure to support a rapidly growing population.
Certification of Financial Disclosure
Project Name: Hooks Street Extension from Hancock Road to CR 455 (Hartle Road)
Requested Amount: $4,500,000
Intended Recipient: Lake County Board of County Commissioners
Recipient Address: 315 W. Main Street, Tavares, FL 32778
Request Explanation: Constructing Hooks Street between Hancock Road and County Road 455 in Clermont will create an important east–west reliever corridor for State Road 50, which currently experiences significant congestion due to rapid population growth and expanding commercial activity in South Lake County. The new connection will improve regional mobility by providing an alternative route for local traffic, reducing congestion and travel delays on SR 50 while improving access between residential neighborhoods, schools, and commercial areas. The project will include sidewalks, shared-use trails, landscaped streetscape elements, and modern roundabouts to enhance safety and improve traffic flow. Intersection improvements at Hancock Road and Hooks Street and at County Road 455 and Hooks Street will increase capacity and reduce crash risk for motorists, pedestrians, and cyclists. This project will improve safety, mobility, and connectivity while supporting economic growth and enhancing the overall quality of life for residents in the Clermont community. Federal resources used for this project are an appropriate use of taxpayer funds because they will provide broad public benefits, including improved safety, reduced traffic congestion, and enhanced mobility for motorists, pedestrians, and cyclists. The project directly provides relief to SR 50. The project supports economic development by improving access to businesses and commercial areas, increases property values, and strengthens regional connectivity. By addressing documented safety concerns and promoting efficient transportation, these federal funds directly serve the general welfare of the public, consistent with the constitutional purpose of funding infrastructure that benefits communities and the economy.
Certification of Financial Disclosure
Project Name: Mud Lake Emergency Access Roads – Phase 1
Requested Amount: $5,000,000
Intended Recipient: Greater Orlando Aviation Authority
Recipient Address: 1 Jeff Fuqua Blvd, Orlando, FL 32827
Request Explanation: This project will create new access routes and designated staging areas to support faster emergency response if an aircraft incident occurs in the water. Improving access to Mud Lake will help emergency teams reach the area more quickly, allowing airport rescue personnel to respond more effectively. It will also provide better coordination and support for partner emergency agencies that assist during response operations. Federal resources used to carry out this Community Project Funding (CPF) request would support the protection of public safety and critical transportation infrastructure. Airports are part of the national aviation system and play an essential role in interstate commerce, making investments that improve emergency response capabilities an appropriate use of federal funds. Enhancing access for aircraft incident response helps ensure the safety of passengers, crew, and surrounding communities while supporting coordinated emergency operations among federal, state, and local agencies.
Certification of Financial Disclosure
Project Name: Port Tampa Bay Pendola Point Berths 30 and 31 Redevelopment
Requested Amount: $4,200,000
Intended Recipient: Tampa Port Authority dBA Port Tampa Bay
Recipient Address: 1101 Channelside Drive, Tampa, FL 33602
Request Explanation: The Pendola Point Berths 30 and 31 Redevelopment project will transform an underused deep-water asset into a modern aggregates terminal that strengthens both local and statewide economic growth. By improving berth capacity, cargo handling efficiency, and vessel positioning, the project will enhance the flow of essential construction materials needed to support Florida’s rapidly expanding infrastructure and development sectors. Its proximity to economically challenged neighborhoods will generate new job opportunities, reduce barriers to employment, and advance racial equity in an Area of Persistent Poverty. Additionally, by enabling materials to be received closer to their final destination, the project will reduce truck miles traveled, lower emissions, improve roadway safety, and decrease wear on Florida’s transportation network. Collectively, this investment benefits Hillsborough County, Florida Congressional District 11, the State of Florida, and the broader national supply chain. Federal resources used for this Community Project Funding request would be an appropriate constitutional use of taxpayer funds because the project advances interstate and international commerce—one of the core authorities granted to Congress under the Commerce Clause. Modernizing Port Tampa Bay’s marine infrastructure directly supports the efficient movement of goods, strengthens supply chain reliability, and enhances economic competitiveness across multiple states. In addition, the project delivers broad public benefits such as improved roadway safety, reduced emissions, and increased access to jobs in economically disadvantaged communities, aligning with federal objectives to promote economic development and equitable opportunity.
Certification of Financial Disclosure
Project Name: USF AI-Assisted Gust Wind Tunnel for Advanced Air Mobility
Requested Amount: $5,000,000
Intended Recipient: University of South Florida
Recipient Address: 4202 E. Fowler Avenue, Tampa, FL 33620
Request Explanation: The University of South Florida recently established an aerospace engineering program within its internationally renowned College of Engineering. The development of this program recognizes the growing demand for the profession within the state and the greater Tampa Bay region for both defense and civilian applications. The proposed wind tunnel project would catapult USF and our region into a national leadership position in the emerging field at the intersection of AI and aerospace engineering. Both the military and defense contracting companies have expressed an interest in using the proposed wind tunnel to more accurately test products and materials, and this new technology would serve as a regional asset, attracting users state and nation-wide. The acquisition and availability of this state-of-the-art flight technology would also support Florida’s effort to ensure the headquarters of NASA is permanently located in our state. This project is a constitutional use of taxpayer dollars in alignment with Congress’ authority to provide for the general welfare, including supporting scientific and technological advancements. The proposed funding will support research aligned with NIST’s implementation task in section 272 of title 15, United States Code to: test, calibrate, and certify standards and standard measuring apparatus; study and develop fundamental scientific understanding and improved measurement, analysis, synthesis, processing, and fabrication methods for chemical substances and compounds, ferrous and nonferrous metals, and all traditional and advanced materials, including processes of degradation; study computer systems and their use to control machinery and processes; and undertake such research in engineering, pure and applied mathematics, statistics, computer science, materials science, and the physical sciences as may be necessary to carry out and support the functions specified in this section.
Certification of Financial Disclosure
Project Name: Police Equipment - Drone as First Responder
Requested Amount: $2,247,912
Intended Recipient: Orange County Sheriff’s Office
Recipient Address: 2500 W Colonial Dr, Orlando, FL 32804
Request Explanation: Orange County is a dynamic and densely populated region that includes residential communities, major travel corridors, tourism centers, large public venues, and critical infrastructure. With many outdoor venues in the area, including theme parks, stadiums, and crowded downtown areas, using drones as first responders will decrease response time and increase the safety of the public. Traditional emergency response models face limitations due to traffic congestion, geographic distance, and resource constraints that can delay vital information reaching officers in the earliest stages of an incident. The requested autonomous dock systems enable drones to launch immediately upon dispatch activation without requiring on-scene personnel, thereby reducing time to aerial intelligence and supporting faster, safer ground responses. Investing in this technology represents a prudent use of taxpayer funds because it leverages commercially available, proven systems that multiply agency capacity without proportional increases in staffing. Funding this project would substantially upgrade the region’s ability to respond to threats, ensuring the safety of residents, visitors, and law enforcement officers. The project strengthens public trust through transparency and improves response efficiency, making it a cost-efficient enhancement to existing emergency services. This is an appropriate use of taxpayer funds because it increases the safety of all residents in the 11th congressional district. This benefits those who live outside of Orange County because the Orange County Sheriff’s Office coordinates with neighboring public safety agencies to enhance their response efforts. As threat levels evolve, response technology must evolve simultaneously.
Certification of Financial Disclosure
Project Name: Digital Twin Manufacturing Testbed
Requested Amount: $5,000,000
Intended Recipient: Florida State University
Recipient Address: 2005 Levy Avenue, Tallahassee, FL 32310
Request Explanation: This project would strengthen Florida’s economy by accelerating innovation in its aerospace, defense, and medical device sectors—industries that provide high-wage jobs and drive regional growth. By establishing a shared digital twin manufacturing testbed at Florida State University, the state would expand in-state product development, reduce reliance on out-of-state supply chains, and enhance readiness to support national security missions. It would also train a highly skilled workforce, positioning Florida as a national leader in advanced manufacturing and defense technology innovation. This project is a strong use of taxpayer dollars because it establishes shared, high-impact digital twin manufacturing infrastructure that enables rapid translation of new concepts into validated, pilot-scale products and processes. The proposed testbed will provide affordable access to advanced engineering capabilities, expert support, and workforce training that are essential for the aerospace, defense, and healthcare sectors but are often beyond the reach of individual organizations. By filling critical gaps in infrastructure, expertise, and skilled talent, the facility will reduce development risk, accelerate innovation, and support pilot production while avoiding duplicative investments. As a shared resource serving public and private users, the testbed will strengthen Florida’s industrial base, expand workforce readiness, stimulate regional economic growth, and directly support national security and healthcare missions.
Certification of Financial Disclosure
Project Name: City of Webster Lift Station Replacement Project
Requested Amount: $1,536,165
Intended Recipient: City of Webster
Recipient Address: 85 E Central Ave, Webster, FL 33597
Request Explanation: For a rural or semi-rural community like Webster, these benefits are especially significant. A single lift station failure can affect the entire service area. Replacing the station now prevents escalating risks and positions the community for safe, sustainable growth. This project represents a responsible and efficient use of taxpayer dollars by proactively addressing aging and vulnerable wastewater infrastructure before failures occur. By rehabilitating and hardening two critical lift stations, the City of Webster will reduce the risk of costly emergency repairs, environmental contamination, and public health impacts associated with sanitary sewer overflows. Investing in preventative upgrades now will extend the useful life of existing infrastructure, improve system reliability during severe weather events, and reduce long-term operational and maintenance costs. This approach ensures federal funds are used strategically to protect essential public services, safeguard water quality, and strengthen infrastructure resilience for the community.
Certification of Financial Disclosure
Fiscal Year 2026 Appropriations Requests
Project Name: USF Cybersecurity Technology, Research, and Workforce Training Program
Requested Amount: $2,500,000
Intended Recipient: University of South Florida
Recipient Address: 4202 E. Fowler Avenue, Tampa, 33620
Request Explanation: The funding would be allocated towards acquiring and deploying cutting-edge cyber training tools and environments, analyzing cyber training outcomes to establish best practices, and prioritizing the facilitation of cybersecurity certificate training. Funding this program would enable hundreds of students to meet the critical, growing demand across our nation.
Certification of Financial Disclosure
Project Name: Wildwood Water Reclamation Facility and Biological Nutrient Removal Improvements
Requested Amount: $2,000,000
Intended Recipient: City of Wildwood
Recipient Address: 100 N. Main Street Wildwood, FL 34785
Request Explanation: This project will provide increased reclaimed water, with reduced nutrient concentrations, for one of the fastest-growing areas of the State. A state-of-the-art BNR/AWT treatment facility, constructed in phases, will be implemented including a 5-Stage BNR treatment system to reduce nutrients entering local groundwater systems (PAR and RIBs), protect the Silver River and the Upper Silver River BMAP Basin, and further the goals and objectives of the BMAP. This is needed to ensure access to clean water by the city of Wildwood and surrounding communities, including The Villages, and preserve Florida’s natural resources.
Certification of Financial Disclosure
Project Name: FSU Quantum Communication Testbed
Requested Amount: $4,550,000
Intended Recipient: Florida State University
Recipient Address: 600 W College Ave Tallahassee, FL 32304
Request Explanation: The funding would be used by the Florida State University-Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University School of Engineering for the creation of a quantum communication testbed, which would leverage existing University infrastructure including the highly unique and specialized National High Magnetic Field Laboratory and the Florida Center for Advanced Aero-Propulsion to study extreme effects on quantum communication. Meeting this challenge is necessary to maintain the United States’ position as a world leader in technology and research.
Certification of Financial Disclosure
Project Name: Polk City Wastewater Improvement Project
Requested Amount: $3,997,196
Intended Recipient: City of Polk City
Recipient Address: 123 Broadway Boulevard SE Polk City, FL 33868
Request Explanation: Funding will be used to upgrade failing piping to the Polk City wastewater collection system delivered to Cardinal Hill Wastewater Treatment Facility located in Polk City, Florida. Specifically, funding will support the lining of 30,000 linear feet of piping which will extend the lifetime of the current failing piping and increase capacity for approximately 1,600 people.
Certification of Financial Disclosure
Project Name: City of Clermont 8th Street Pier Stormwater Infrastructure Improvements
Requested Amount: $2,257,200
Intended Recipient: City of Clermont
Recipient Address: 685 West Montrose Street Clermont, FL 34711
Request Explanation: The project would upgrade an antiquated stormwater retention area into a tiered greenspace featuring an immersive stormwater retention pond, bioswales, and native rain gardens. This infrastructure would naturally filter stormwater and improve both water quality and aquatic habitat within the lake. Additional elements would include shoreline native species and tree planting to cool water temperatures and provide habitat, restoration of a vegetated littoral shelf along the lake shoreline, construction of a green-roofed restroom building, and installation of pervious pavement for the parking areas and promenade.
Certification of Financial Disclosure
Project Name: Central Florida Training Equipment - Orange County Sheriff
Requested Amount: $685,920.60
Intended Recipient: Orange County Sheriff’s Office
Recipient Address: 2500 W Colonial Dr Orlando, FL 32804
Request Explanation: This project will help increase safety and security for citizens and area visitors. All funds will go towards the purchase of technology and equipment needed to respond more quickly and effectively, improve officer safety, increase transparency, and enhance community relations.
Certification of Financial Disclosure
Project Name: Crest Avenue Wastewater Treatment Facility Capacity Expansion and Process Optimization
Requested Amount: $5,000,000
Intended Recipient: City of Winter Garden
Recipient Address: 300 W. Plant Street Winter Garden, FL 34787
Request Explanation: The funding would be used to increase capacity and achieve Advanced Wastewater Treatment standards. Expanding capacity and optimizing the Crest Avenue Wastewater Treatment Facility in Winter Garden will improve water quality, increase the production of reclaimed water, and protect source water obtained from Lake Apopka in order to advance ongoing restoration efforts, improve boat navigation, and enhance ecotourism.
Certification of Financial Disclosure
Project Name: University of Florida’s Health Central Florida Elevating Care Through Workforce Development: Simulation Lab
Requested Amount: $1,500,000
Intended Recipient: UF Health Leesburg Hospital
Recipient Address: 600 E. Dixie Ave Leesburg, FL 34748
Request Explanation: The funding will enable purchase of technological equipment for a new Simulation (SIM) lab, which is needed to address workforce challenges and shortages in the healthcare sector in one of the fastest-growing areas in Florida. The program will give nursing students at University of Florida’s Health Central, located at Leesburg Regional Medical Center in Leesburg, a hands-on clinical experience that will significantly improve skill performance and knowledge acquisition, creating a pipeline of better-prepared students entering our healthcare sector.
Certification of Financial Disclosure
Project Name: Modeling & Simulation Small Business Accelerator
Requested Amount: $5,000,000
Intended Recipient: National Center for Simulation
Recipient Address: 3039 Technology Parkway Orlando, FL 32826
Request Explanation: This funding would support the establishment of a Modeling and Simulation (M&S) Small Business Accelerator at the National Center for Simulation located in Orlando, FL. If funded, the Center would be able to support a series of innovative challenges designed to boost production efficiency in modeling and simulation. By helping small businesses scale their operations, the accelerator could directly lead to job creation and enhanced national security and public welfare. This project fosters innovation, drives economic growth, creates jobs, strengthens U.S. industries, and accelerates the commercialization of cutting-edge technologies that benefit national security and public welfare.
Certification of Financial Disclosure
Project Name: Lake Apopka Shoreline Restoration Project
Requested Amount: $4,000,000
Intended Recipient: City of Winter Garden
Recipient Address: 300 W. Plant St Winter Garden, FL 34787
Request Explanation: The funding would be used to support Phase 1 of a multi-phase dredging project to restore a portion of the Lake Apopka shoreline. It addresses critical environmental concerns in Lake Apopka, preserves water quality, and safeguards the well-being of local residents and ecosystems.
Certification of Financial Disclosure
Project Name: MCO Airport Public Roadway Wayfinding and Signage Phase 1
Requested Amount: $4,000,000
Intended Recipient: Greater Orlando Aviation Authority
Recipient Address: One Jeff Fuqua Boulevard Orlando, FL 32827
Request Explanation: Nearly 60 million annual passengers use MCO each year and the public roadway system to access Terminals A, B and C is reaching its limits of capacity on many segments of the system, particularly in the North Terminal at Terminals A and B. A solution to mitigate this problem is to expand and improve the airport's roadway wayfinding and signage program to route traffic to less used roads such as Heintzelman Boulevard on the east side of the airport to bypass the most congested parts of the roadway system. This approach will benefit almost all passengers and better distribute traffic across the entire roadway network.
Certification of Financial Disclosure
Project Name: Town of Montverde CR 455 Complete Street
Requested Amount: $2,000,000
Intended Recipient: Lake County
Recipient Address: 315 W Main St Tavares, FL 32778
Request Explanation: The funding would be used to improve County Road 455, which is a major connector roadway in Lake County that passes through the rural Town of Montverde. The project would provide bike lanes, multi-use trail, sidewalk, improved street crossing, traffic calming, as well as critical drainage improvements. With project completion, residents and visitors will be able to safely travel this key roadway in Lake County and accompanying Central Florida connector roads that are critical to this region’s business, residential and tourist traffic.
Certification of Financial Disclosure
Project Name: Eustis Workforce Education & Training Center (EETC)
Requested Amount: $3,250,000
Intended Recipient: Lake – Sumter State College
Recipient Address: 9501 U.S. Highway 441 Leesburg, FL 34788
Request Explanation: The funding would be used to construct the EETC Building, which will be a workforce development facility that will provide training and certifications in utility linework and commercial driving. This training and certification will address critical labor shortages in these vital industries. There is an estimated shortage of over 24,000 drivers in the trucking industry and anticipated 21,800 line-worker job openings in 2025
Fiscal Year 2025 Appropriations Requests
Project Name: Lake Apopka Shoreline Restoration Project
Requested Amount: $4,000,000
Intended Recipient: City of Winter Garden
Recipient Address: 300 W. Plant St., Winter Garden, Florida, 34787
Request Explanation: The funding would be used to support Phase 1 of a multi-phase dredging project to restore a portion of the Lake Apopka shoreline. It addresses critical environmental concerns in Lake Apopka, preserves water quality, and safeguards the wellbeing of local residents and ecosystems.
Certification of Financial Disclosure
Project Name: Jeff Fuqua Boulevard (Loop Road) A Terminal Entrance Improvement Project
Requested Amount: $3,375,000
Intended Recipient: Greater Orlando Aviation Authority
Recipient Address: One Jeff Fuqua Boulevard, Orlando, Florida, 32827
Request Explanation: The funding would be used to deliver critical improvements to the intersection of Jeff Fuqua Boulevard and South Park Place/Station Loop Road. The project will simplify traffic movements, reduce congestion, decrease pollution from idling vehicles and improve overall traffic. The Orlando International Airport (MCO) has experienced tremendous growth in vehicular traffic over the past decade, resulting in delays that cause unsafe conditions and affect airport operations.
Certification of Financial Disclosure
Project Name: Town of Montverde CR 455 Complete Street Project
Requested Amount: $1,500,000
Intended Recipient: Lake County
Recipient Address: 315 West Main Street, Suite 308, Tavares, Florida, 32778
Request Explanation: The funding would be used to improve County Road 455, which is a major connector roadway in Lake County that passes through the rural Town of Montverde. The project would provide bike lanes, multi-use trail, sidewalk, improved street crossing, traffic calming, as well as critical drainage improvements. With project completion, residents and visitors will be able to safely travel this key roadway in Lake County and accompanying Central Florida connector roads that are critical to this region’s business, residential and tourist traffic.
Certification of Financial Disclosure
Project Name: Wildwood Wastewater Project
Requested Amount: $5,000,000
Intended Recipient: City of Wildwood
Recipient Address: 100 N. Main Street Wildwood, Florida, 34785
Request Explanation: The funding would be used to provide necessary wastewater capacity to support the ongoing regional growth in housing, commercial, and industrial development. It will improve existing infrastructure and aging equipment in order to meet the Advanced Water Treatment standards set by the U.S. Department of Environmental Protection.
Certification of Financial Disclosure
Project Name: Polk County Emergency Operations Center Office Expansion
Requested Amount: $1,875,000
Intended Recipient: Polk County
Recipient Address: 330 West Church Street, PO Box 9005, Drawer CA01 Bartow, Florida, 33831
Request Explanation: The funding would be used for expanding the existing Emergency Operations Center, responsible for planning and coordinating actions to prepare, respond and recover from natural or man-made disasters in Polk County. It also plans and conducts emergency training and serves as a liaison with state and federal emergency agencies. The 15-year-old facility does not meet current or future needs.
Certification of Financial Disclosure
Project Name: Winter Garden Wastewater Project
Requested Amount: $ 5,000,000
Intended Recipient: City of Winter Garden
Recipient Address: 300 W. Plant Street Winter Garden, FL 34787
Request Explanation: The funding would be used to increase capacity and achieve Advanced Wastewater Treatment standards. Expanding capacity and optimizing the Crest Avenue Wastewater Treatment Facility in Winter Garden will improve effluent water quality, increase the production of reclaimed water, and protect source water obtained from Lake Apopka in order to advance ongoing restoration efforts, improve boat navigation, and enhance ecotourism.
Certification of Financial Disclosure
Project Name: University of South Florida’s Cybersecurity Technology, Research, and Workforce Training Program
Requested Amount: $2,500,000
Intended Recipient: University of South Florida
Recipient Address: 4202 E. Fowler Ave., Tampa, FL 33620
Request Explanation: The funding would be allocated towards acquiring and deploying cutting-edge cyber training tools and environments, analyzing cyber training outcomes to establish best practices, and prioritizing the facilitation of cybersecurity certificate training. Funding this program would enable hundreds of students to meet the critical, growing demand across our nation.
Certification of Financial Disclosure
Project Name: University of Florida’s Health Central Florida Elevating Care Through Workforce Development: Simulation Lab
Requested Amount: $1,500,000
Intended Recipient: Leesburg Regional Medical Center, Inc.
Recipient Address: 600 E Dixie Ave. Leesburg, Florida, 34748
Request Explanation: The funding will enable purchase of technological equipment for a new Simulation (SIM) lab. The program will give nursing students at University of Florida’s Health Central, located at Leesburg Regional Medical Center in Leesburg, a hands-on clinical experience that will significantly improve skill performance and knowledge acquisition, creating a pipeline of better-prepared students entering our healthcare sector.
Certification of Financial Disclosure
Project Name: Florida State University’s Quantum Communication Testbed
Requested Amount: $4,550,000
Intended Recipient: Florida State University
Recipient Address: 222 S. Copeland Street, Tallahassee, Florida, 32306
Request Explanation: The funding would be used by the Florida State University-Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University School of Engineering for the creation of a quantum communication testbed, which would leverage existing University infrastructure including the highly unique and specialized National High Magnetic Field Laboratory and the Florida Center for Advanced Aero-Propulsion to study extreme effects on quantum communication. Meeting this challenge is necessary to maintain the United States’ position as a world leader in technology and research.
Fiscal Year 2024 Appropriations Requests
Project Name: Cyberworks, Cybersecurity Workforce Training Program
Requested Amount: $ 2,500,000
Intended Recipient: The University of South Florida (USF)
Recipient Address: 4202 E. Fowler Avenue, Tampa, FL 33620
Request Explanation: The funding would allow 300 additional Floridians to participate this fiscal year in CyberWorks, a 19-week cybersecurity certificate training program that prepares non-traditional adult students, and especially recently discharged military veterans, to enter the civilian and defense cybersecurity workforce as Tier 1 Security Operation Center (SOC) Analysts.
Certification of Financial Disclosure
Project Name: Rapid DNA system
Requested Amount: $695,540
Intended Recipient: Lake County Sheriff
Recipient Address: 551 West Main Street, Tavares, FL 32778
Request Explanation: The funding would be used to purchase a Rapid DNA system to help bolster law enforcement efficiency, investigations and reduce crime lab backlogs. The Sheriff’s office would house the instruments at their jail and would make them available to surrounding agencies as needed to assist with public safety across the county.
Certification of Financial Disclosure
Project Name: Southbound Jeff Fuqua Realignment at Orlando International Airport
Requested Amount: $5,000,000
Intended Recipient: Greater Orlando Aviation Authority
Recipient Address: One Jeff Fuqua Boulevard, Orlando, FL 32827
Request Explanation: The funding would help deliver improvements to the intersection of Jeff Fuqua Boulevard and South Park Place/Station Loop Road at Orlando International Airport (MCO) to simplify traffic movements, reduce congestion, decrease pollution from idling vehicles at red lights, and improve overall traffic flow at one of the nation’s busiest airports. More than 115,000 vehicles per day already travel through MCO terminals causing traffic delays that result in unsafe conditions and affect airport operations.
Certification of Financial Disclosure
Project Name: PD&E for the FDC Grove Road/Northridge Trail Flyover of Interstate 4/US Highway 27 interchange
Requested Amount: $4,000,000
Intended Recipient: Polk County Board of County Commissioners
Recipient Address: 330 W. Church Street, Bartow, FL 33830.
Request Explanation: The funding would be used to complete planning for a bridge/flyover I-4 west of US 27 to connect FDC Grove Road to the Northridge Trail to allow traffic to bypass that interchange by moving local north/south traffic on a route parallel to US Highway 27.
Fiscal Year 2023 Appropriations Requests
Project Name: CR 466A 4-Laning Final Phase Completion
Requested Amount: $3,611,561
Intended Recipient: Lake County, FL
Recipient Address: 315 W Main St #3813, Tavares, FL 32778
Request Explanation: The funding would enable completion of a major 4-laning project providing regional traffic connectivity and improved traffic flow from US 301 in Sumter County to US 27/441 in Lake County.
Certification of Financial Disclosure
Project Name: Citrus Grove Road Phase II
Requested Amount: $1,000,000
Intended Recipient: Lake County, FL
Recipient Address: 315 W Main St #3813, Tavares, FL 32778
Request Explanation: Citrus Grove Road is a major collector roadway connecting US Hwy 27 to N. Hancock Road at the Florida turnpike Interchange in Minneola. Phase II is part of a 5-phase project; Phases I and III are complete; Phases IV and V are soon to be under construction; Phase II will complete the project. The existing road is an old farm to market road that is inadequate to serve current regional transportation needs. There are no adjacent homes or businesses on this segment of road. The funding requested is for final design of the project.