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Gov. DeSantis awards funds for revitalization, infrastructure projects

Gov. Ron DeSantis on Tuesday made two stops on opposite ends of the state to announce money for local revitalization and infrastructure projects. 

First, the governor appeared in Fort Pierce, which will receive $2.7 million from a state economic-development program to help revitalize its downtown. The money from the Job Growth Grant Program will be used for utility and road improvements to help with an eight-acre development known as King’s Landing, DeSantis said. 

“These public infrastructure improvements will help this area attract new businesses, including restaurants, retail stores and even a full-service hotel,” DeSantis said during an appearance at the 2nd Street Bistro. “Additionally, by improving this infrastructure and addressing transportation needs, the project will support additional growth in nearby areas.” 

Casey DeSantis Announces the 'Pathway to Purpose' Initiative

First Lady of the state of Florida Casey DeSantis officially announced the amplification of her Hope Florida – A Pathway to Purpose, which is intended to target the elderly community with support and increased assistance for those in need.

In 2021, the Mrs. DeSantis launched Hope Florida – A Pathway to Prosperity initiative with the intent to “break down traditional community silos to unite the private sector, faith-based institutions, non-profits, and government entities to maximize resources and uncover opportunities for Floridians in need” and has since served over 50,000 Floridians.

However, with the new program, seniors will have the opportunity to receive more immediate assistance. The way the initiative is designed allows retirees looking to serve their fellow community members in what’s called the “Hope Heroes Program,” to help out the elders who need it most.

Gov. DeSantis talks up $2.7 million state grant to Fort Pierce King's Landing site

Gov. Ron DeSantis appeared in Fort Pierce Tuesday to tout a $2.7 million state grant to the city to redevelop the 8-acre King's Landing site.

"We're very bullish on St. Lucie County as a whole. We think Fort Pierce, you know, really is a great spot," the governor said. 

DeSantis was at the 2nd Street Bistro with Department of Economic Opportunity Secretary Dane Eagle. The restaurant is at 122 North Second St.

Fort Pierce Mayor Linda Hudson said the city applied for the Florida Job Growth Grant Fund grant toward the beginning of the year and it was sponsored in the Legislature by Rep. Dana Trabulsy, R-Fort Pierce. The fund received $150 million in federal money to disperse.

Tampa, Miami top the nation in price increases over past year

Tampa and Miami have continued to top other metro areas across the country in home-price increases, according to an analysis released Tuesday. The Tampa area had a 35 percent price increase in June when compared to a year earlier, according to the S&P CoreLogic Case-Shiller U.S. National Home Price NSA Index.

Tampa was followed by the Miami area at 33 percent and Dallas at 28.2 percent. Tampa and Miami also led other metro areas in April and May. They were the only areas of Florida included in the 20-market analysis.

Craig J. Lazzara, managing director at S&P Dow Jones Indices, said in a prepared statement that price increases have slowed in recent months. But he added that it is “important to bear in mind that deceleration and decline are two entirely different things, and that prices are still rising at a robust clip.”