City Council Approves $79K Grant Application and Cured Pipe Contract for Cypress Wood

On July 23, 2025, the City of Winter Haven held an Agenda Review Meeting that highlighted several key initiatives aimed at enhancing community infrastructure and resilience. The discussions centered around grant opportunities, infrastructure projects, and strategic planning for future developments.

One of the primary topics was the approval of a grant agreement with Hale Innovation, which will assist the city in identifying and managing grant applications over two fiscal years. The total cost for these services is $79,890, with a portion allocated from the current fiscal year's budget. This initiative underscores the city's commitment to securing funding for essential projects, even as it navigates budget approvals for the upcoming fiscal year.

Another significant discussion involved the award of a contract for cured-in-place pipe lining services within the Cypress Wood utility area. The city received six bids, ultimately selecting Insituform Technologies, which offered the lowest bid of $629,656. This project will cover approximately 11,844 linear feet of piping and is budgeted across fiscal years 2025 and 2026. The technology used in this project aims to seal cracks and prevent groundwater infiltration, which is crucial for maintaining the integrity of the city's water infrastructure.

The meeting also addressed the Sixth Street Complete Streets project, which aims to enhance traffic safety and pedestrian access. Funded in part by a $115,000 grant from the Florida Department of Transportation, the project will include traffic calming measures, improved landscaping, and drainage features. Carter Kaye Engineering was selected to lead the design work, with a total budget of $285,000 allocated for this initiative.

Additionally, the city discussed a comprehensive vulnerability assessment and adaptation plan, for which it secured a $360,000 grant from the Florida Department of Environmental Protection. This plan will evaluate flood risks and climate-related exposures, helping to identify priority areas for resilience improvements. The assessment is expected to position Winter Haven for future funding opportunities aimed at mitigating climate risks.

Lastly, the meeting covered the acceptance of a Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) grant to fund an updated airport master plan. This plan, which has not been revised since 2016, will reassess the airport's priorities and align future developments with community goals and economic opportunities. The FAA will cover 95% of the project costs, significantly reducing the financial burden on the city and the Department of Transportation.

In conclusion, the July 23 meeting showcased Winter Haven's proactive approach to infrastructure improvement and community resilience. By securing grants and initiating critical projects, the city is positioning itself to address current needs while preparing for future challenges. The commission's decisions reflect a commitment to enhancing the quality of life for residents and ensuring sustainable growth in the years to come.