U.S. Rep. Gus Bilirakis, R-Fla. announced Jan. 8 that he secured $14.625 million in federal grant funding for infrastructure, public safety, education and research projects across Florida's 12th Congressional District with the House passage of three appropriations bills.
The funding is included in the Commerce, Justice and Science Appropriations, Energy and Water Appropriations, and Interior Appropriations packages.
“These investments reflect my commitment to delivering results for our communities and ensuring taxpayer dollars are used wisely,” Bilirakis said. “These projects were identified by local government leaders as priority unmet needs. From improving public safety and protecting public health to strengthening water infrastructure and advancing lifesaving medical research, they have the potential to make a lasting, meaningful impact across our district — once these bills are approved by the Senate and signed into law.”
Bilirakis-sponsored projects in Hernando County included in the appropriations bills are:
Hernando County Sheriff’s Office Advanced Forensics Tools and Equipment Upgrades: $2.875 million to support digital and biological forensic tools, strengthening investigative capabilities and enhancing community safety.
City of Brooksville Wastewater Infrastructure Planning: $1 million for engineering and design to expand the wastewater treatment facility to handle up to 5 million gallons per day. With rapid growth projected to push capacity limits by 2028-29, this funding represents a critical first step toward long-term sustainability and environmental protection.
City of Brooksville Wastewater Treatment Facility Improvements: $750,000 to modernize wastewater infrastructure and ensure long-term compliance and service sustainability.
Hernando County Centralized Sewer System: $750,000 to help construct lift stations needed to decommission outdated RV sewer treatment package plants and connect them to a centralized sewer system, improving efficiency, environmental protection, and long-term sustainability.
University of South Florida Molecular Profiling Center for Brain Research: $2 million to support the purchase and installation of advanced single-cell proteomics and transcriptomics and related research instruments. These technologies will accelerate research into Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, ALS and other neurological disorders, including studies focused on traumatic brain injury, PTSD and vascular dementia among veterans.
“These projects represent mission-critical investments that strengthen public safety, protect public health, support students, safeguard our environment, and prepare our communities for future growth,” Bilirakis added. “While these bills have passed the House, the funding is still contingent on Senate approval and the president’s signature. I will continue working to ensure our district receives its fair share of federal resources and that these funds are spent responsibly and effectively.”
Photos by VINCENT F. SAFUTO/Hernando Today
File shot of Bilirakis