Press Releases

WALTON COUNTY, FL – 1/26/24

Barge Design Solutions, a leading engineering and architecture firm, along with team member Florida Atlantic University (FAU), has been selected by the Walton County Board of County Commissioners (BOCC) to spearhead the development of a groundbreaking Watershed Management Plan (WMP). This initiative is made possible through a strategic grant partnership with the Florida Department of Environmental Management and FEMA.

The primary objective of the WMP is to propel Walton County to a Class 4 rating in the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) Community Rating System (CRS). Currently holding a Class 6 rating, this endeavor is poised to bring substantial benefits to county residents.

Key Points:

1. 1. Grant Funding: The project is partially funded through grants from the Florida Department of Environmental Management and FEMA, emphasizing the importance of this collaboration in bolstering community resilience.

   2. NFIP Community Rating System (CRS): The County's current Class 6 rating affords residents a 20% discount on NFIP flood insurance policies. Upon approval and adoption of the WMP by FDEM/FEMA and the BOCC, a Class 4 rating will secure an even more substantial 30% reduction.

   3. Comprehensive Study Scope: The WMP encompasses a county-wide study, reviewing critical stormwater storage and conveyance facilities, inventorying public infrastructure, developing high-level HUC models to assess potential flood areas, and holding a public meeting for stakeholder input.

   4. Projected Timeline: The project is scheduled for completion and adoption by September 2024, marking a significant milestone in the county's journey towards enhanced resilience and flood mitigation.

   5. Community Benefits: Residents can anticipate increased resilience, the identification and prioritization of mitigation efforts, and, notably, reduced insurance premiums.

Quotes:

"This project underscores the commitment to strategic planning by the Walton County Board of County Commissioners.  The collaboration with Barge Design Solutions and Florida Atlantic University reflects the dedication to the well-being of our residents and the sustainable development of Walton County," added Uriah Matthews, Executive Director of Walton County Economic Development Alliance, Inc.

About Barge Design Solutions:

Barge Design Solutions is a nationally recognized engineering and architecture firm committed to delivering innovative solutions for communities. With a focus on sustainability and resilience, the firm brings extensive experience to projects that shape the future of communities.

About Walton County Economic Development Alliance: 

The Walton County Economic Development Department Alliance is a collective effort of key stakeholders dedicated to fostering economic growth, community development, and resilience within Walton County. By leveraging strategic partnerships, the alliance aims to create a vibrant and sustainable future for all residents.

For media inquires, please contact; 

Uriah Matthews
Executive Director, Walton County Economic Development Alliance
media@wcedafl.com

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Walton County Economic Development Alliance Secures $830,961 Defense Infrastructure Grant

Strategic Investment to Improve Intersection at SR 20 and CR 83A West

WALTON COUNTY, FL – 1/15/24

The Walton County Economic Development Alliance (WCEDA) is proud to announce the successful acquisition of a $830,961 grant through the Defense Infrastructure Grant Program. This strategic investment will be directed towards enhancing the intersection at SR 20 and CR 83A West, a crucial route for employees commuting to Eglin Air Force Base.

Under the leadership of Governor Ron DeSantis, the Defense Infrastructure Grant Program aims to fortify military communities by supporting vital infrastructure projects. WCEDA's successful grant application underscores the strategic vision of the Alliance and the commitment of Walton County to bolstering the well-being of its military community.

"This grant marks a significant milestone in our ongoing efforts to enhance the safety and operational efficiency around our local military installations," said Uriah Matthews, Executive Director of WCEDA. "We are excited about the positive impact this will have on our community and the continued growth of Walton County."

The awarded funds will be dedicated to improving the SR 20 and CR 83A West intersection, aligning seamlessly with WCEDA's mission to foster economic development and ensure the prosperity of the military community in Walton County.

For media inquiries, please contact:

Uriah Matthews

Executive Director, Walton County Economic Development Alliance

media@wcedafl.com

State of Florida Press Release: https://www.flgov.com/2024/01/12/governor-ron-desantis-announces-more-than-1-8-million-to-strengthen-military-communities/