POLK COUNTY, FL – Seven communities in Polk County have been awarded approximately $12.6 million in state funding to expand alternative water supplies as part of a $100 million statewide investment announced by Governor Ron DeSantis on Wednesday, October 28, 2026.
According to the Florida Department of Environmental Protection, the funding will support the Polk Regional Alternative Water Supply Receiving Facilities project in coordination with the Polk Regional Water Cooperative. The initiative aims to diversify local water supplies, including the use of brackish water, while reducing reliance on traditional freshwater sources.
The funding awarded to Polk County communities includes:
- Town of Dundee: $4,765,000
- Polk County Utilities: $2,000,000
- City of Haines City: $2,000,000
- City of Winter Haven: $2,000,000
- City of Auburndale: $750,000
- City of Eagle Lake: $600,000
- City of Bartow: $500,000
Dundee received the largest individual award in Polk County, securing nearly $4.8 million for its portion of the regional water supply initiative.
The Polk County funding is part of $50 million awarded to 22 alternative water supply projects across Florida. State officials say these projects will collectively produce more than 60 million gallons of water per day when completed.
An additional $50 million was awarded to 23 springs restoration projects statewide, bringing the governor’s total announcement to $100 million across 45 projects.
The investments are intended to improve water quality, promote conservation and help communities meet future water demands as Florida continues to grow.
SOURCE: DEPARTMENT OF ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION
