TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (WCTV) – Leon County is receiving $4.5 million in state funding for projects that protect Wakulla Springs, according to a press release.<\/p>\n
The funding was announced on Oct. 28 by Gov. DeSantis through the Florida Department of Environmental Protection\u2019s (FDEP) Springs Restoration Grant Program.<\/p>\n
Leon County received $3.5 million for the Woodville Sewer System Project, while the other $1 million was awarded for the Septic Upgrade Incentive Program. These projects are expected to extend central sewer service in Woodville and also upgrade septic systems, reducing nitrogen near Wakulla Springs. <\/p>\n
Leon County Commissioner Christian Caban said in the press release that the investment is also improving water quality in Woodville. \u201cWe appreciate the state\u2019s partnership in helping our community expand sewer service, address septic system impacts and protect the natural resources that make southern Leon County so special,\u201d Caban said.<\/p>\n
More news out of the Big Bend:<\/p>\n
Grant funding would go towards phase 2 of construction of the Woodville Sewer System that\u2019s extending sewer service to over 350 properties in the Primary Spring Protection Zone. The final easement agreement for the project is expected to be done by Jan. 2027. <\/p>\n
Construction is expected to begin in late 2027. \u201cConsistent with previous phases, the County will match the Woodville award with available local sales tax revenue for water quality improvements,\u201d per the press release.<\/p>\n
The Septic Upgrade Incentive Program is providing those in the Primary Spring Protection Zone with up to $7,500 to replace their septic systems with nitrogen-reducing ones. The program is funded entirely by state grants and so far the program has replaced 300 septic systems. It is expected to replace 133 more systems.<\/p>\n
Leon County Administrator Vincent S. Long said in the press release that the state funding is effective. \u201cThis funding helps protect Wakulla Springs and the aquifer for the long term, while giving more homeowners real help with the cost of upgrading their septic systems,\u201d Long said.<\/p>\n
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