Congressman Vern Buchanan has announced that $22,550,550 in federal funding will be directed toward a range of community projects in Florida’s 16th Congressional District. The funds, secured through the fiscal year 2026 appropriations packages, are intended to support infrastructure, economic development, public safety, veterans services, and health initiatives.
“I’m proud to have secured more than $22.5 million for Florida’s 16th District is about delivering for the people who live and work here,” said Buchanan. “This funding supports veterans, strengthens infrastructure, protects our water resources and advances lifesaving medical research. These are practical investments that improve safety, create opportunity and protect our quality of life. These projects will make a real difference for families across our community and strengthen our future for years to come.”
The funded projects include the establishment of an entrepreneurship center at the University of South Florida’s Sarasota-Manatee campus; trail construction connecting Palmetto to Parrish; building a veterans service center in Manatee County; roadway expansions; port channel improvements at SeaPort Manatee; intersection upgrades along State Road 64; stormwater improvements in Bradenton City Park; pedestrian safety enhancements at New College of Florida; flood mitigation in Holmes Beach; septic-to-sewer conversions in Wimauma; aquifer recharge programs in South Hillsborough; cancer imaging research at Moffitt Cancer Center; and facility upgrades for Manatee Children’s Services.
Local leaders expressed appreciation for the funding. Moez Limayem, President of the University of South Florida, stated: “We are grateful to Congressman Buchanan and thank him for his support of our university. This funding will allow the University of South Florida to create a world-class collaborative space for students, as well as entrepreneurs and small business professionals with state-of-the-art technology that is often something small businesses need but lack the resources to acquire.”
Manatee County Port Authority Chairman Mike Rahn commented: “SeaPort Manatee deeply appreciates the support of Congressman Buchanan in securing reimbursement of $3.345 million in federal funding for a critical project that, for the past decade, has been vital to the port’s continuing growth.”
Tal Siddique, Chair of the Manatee Board of County Commissioners added: “Thanks to our Congressman Vern Buchanan, these federal investments represent real momentum for Manatee County. They help us deliver on key community goals—improving quality of life, strengthening transportation networks and ensuring our veterans and their families have the support they deserve.”
Bradenton Mayor Gene Brown noted: “We are grateful to Congressman Buchanan and his team for securing this $4 million investment for Bradenton. The improvements along State Road 64 will enhance safety and mobility for residents and visitors. The stormwater funding for City Park is a key step that allows us to move forward with a larger vision for expanded recreation, youth programs, and community space around LECOM Park. Together, these projects strengthen essential infrastructure and directly benefit the people who call Bradenton home.”
Holmes Beach Mayor Judy Titsworth stated: “The City of Holmes Beach is thrilled to hear about the THUD appropriations bill being signed into law and is looking forward to beginning its review of stormwater infrastructure improvements along Marina Drive.  Improving the drainage in this portion of the City will help residents and first responders navigate the critical north/south roadway on Anna Maria Island.  The funding will help us improve services and is greatly appreciated.  Congressman Buchanan has always been a strong advocate for our city and we are most grateful for his support in our resiliency.”
Richard Corcoran, President of New College of Florida said: “We are honored to receive federal funding for the Pedestrian Greenway Corridor. We are so grateful to Congressman Buchanan for securing this funding for New College of Florida, which will help create a brighter future for the college, our students, and the entire community.”
Melinda Thompson, CEO of Manatee Children’s Services remarked: “This generous investment through the Community Project Funding is truly transformative for Manatee Children’s Services and, most importantly, for the children and families who turn to us during some of the most difficult moments of their lives. This support allows us to enhance the safety and quality of abuse examinations, strengthen our technology and infrastructure, and create a more secure, welcoming, and child-friendly environment across our campus. From updated medical and therapeutic equipment to ADA-accessible improvements and disaster preparedness, these funds help ensure that every child we serve receives compassionate, trauma-informed care in a space designed for healing. We are deeply grateful for this support which strengthens our ability to protect children promote recovery,and build a safer more hopeful futureforourcommunity.”
Dr.W.Gregory Sawyer from Moffitt Cancer Center added:“Thanks to Rep.Buchanan’s advocacy,thisfundingallowsus tobuil dnext-generationimagingcapabilitiesthattranslatedirectlyintobettertoolsforunderstandingdetecting,andultimatelytreatingcancer.Weareusingthistechnologytofollowhowtumorsevolveinthreedimensions,andhowindividualtumorcellsworktoevadetheimmunesystem,andresisttherapies.We will use these tools to find new treatmentsforthemostdangerouscancers.Itpairs sowellwithourexistingstrengthsinimagingandpatientavatars.”
Buchanan has represented Florida’s 16th district since 2007 after succeeding Katherine Harris. He previously served in the Florida House. Born in Detroit in 1951, he currently resides in Sarasota. He earned degrees from Cleary University (1975) as well as from University of Detroit Mercy (1986).
