RESTORE ACT Direct Component Multiyear Plan Matrix — Department of the Treasury 

Applicant Name:

1. CUMULATIVE DIRECT COMPONENT ALLOCATION AVAILABLE FOR DISTRIBUTION TO APPLICANT:

3. Primary Direct Component Eligible Activity

Further Described in Application (Static Field)

4. Activity Number and Activity Title

(Static Field)

5. Location ‐  Municipality(ies)

(Static Field, locations also shown

on attached map)

6. Total Funding Resources For Activity Budget (refer to Instructions)

7. Proposed

Start Datemm/yyyy

8. Actual Start

Date

mm/yyyy

(Static Field)

9. Proposed

End Date

mm/yyyy

6a. Direct ComponentContribution

6b. Other RESTORE ActContribution

6c. Other Third PartyContribution 6d. Total Project Budget

Promotion of tourism in the Gulf

Coast Region, including

recreational fishing

Walton County Artificial Reef

Construction ‐ Miramar/Frangista

Miramar Beach, FL ‐ Gulfof Mexico $95,121.00 $0.00 $0.00 $95,121.00 11/2017 09/2019

Restoration and protection of thenatural resources, ecosystems,

fisheries, marine and wildlife

habitats, beaches, and coastalwetlands of the Gulf Coast Region

Student‐led HabitatRestoration in Walton County

Multiple locations ‐ Miramar Beach, FL; Santa

Rosa Beach, FL $113,300.00 $0.00 $0.00 $113,300.00 11/2017 09/2020

Restoration and protection of the

natural resources, ecosystems,

fisheries, marine and wildlifehabitats, beaches, and coastalwetlands of the Gulf Coast Region

Plant Removal and Habitat Improvement in Walton County's Rare Coastal Dune Lakes Grayton Beach, FL $113,300.00 $0.00 $0.00 $113,300.00 11/2017 09/2020

Promotion of tourism in the Gulf

Coast Region, including

recreational fishing

Artificial Reef Deployment 

and Monitoring

Multiple locations in Gulfof Mexico ‐ MiramarBeach, FL; Santa Rosa

Beach, FL; Seaside, FL $472,461.00 $0.00 $1,735,881.97 $2,208,342.97 11/2017 09/2027

Planning assistance

City of Freeport Stormwater

Master Plan and Capital

Improvement Strategic PlanUpdate Freeport, FL $135,960.00 $0.00 $0.00 $135,960.00 11/2017 09/2020

Planning assistance

Identifying Water QualityImpairments for Lagrange Bayou,Black Creek, and ChoctawhatcheeBay Freeport, FL $141,625.00 $0.00 $0.00 $141,625.00 11/2017 09/2020

Promotion of tourism in the 

Gulf Coast Region, including recreational fishing

Muscogee Nation of Florida Micro Farm Agritourism Project Bruce, FL $543,840.00 $0.00 $0.00 $543,840.00 11/2017 09/2021

Planning assistance

County Road 30A IntermodalTransportation InnovationProgram (ITIP)

Seaside, FL $135,960.00 $0.00 $0.00 $135,960.00 11/2017 09/2019

Planning assistance

Old Town Santa Rosa TMDL

Water Quality Restoration ‐ Phase

I Santa Rosa Beach, FL $594,506.37 $0.00 $0.00 $594,506.37 11/2017 09/2022

Infrastructure projects benefittingthe economy or ecologicalresources, including port

infrastructure

Coastal Dune Lakes HydrologicRestoration Project

Multiple locations inGrayton Beach, FL $1,175,396.16 $0.00 $0.00 $1,175,396.16 11/2017 09/2022

Walton County, Florida

$8,828,529.76 

2. TOTAL ALLOCATIONS PLUS KNOWN FUNDS NOT YET DEPOSITED IN TRUST FUND FOR DIRECT COMPONENT:
Coastal flood protection and

related infrastructure

Walton County Stormwater

Projects ‐ Western Lake Basin,Allen Loop Road, Golf Club Drive, and Mack Bayou Road DrainageImprovements

Multiple locations ‐ Miramar Beach, FL; Santa

Rosa Beach, FL $1,811,926 $0.00 $0.00 $1,811,926 11/2017 09/2022

Coastal flood protection and

related infrastructure

Walton County StormwaterProjects ‐ Palmetto Road andBay Grove Road DrainageImprovements

Multiple locations  ‐Freeport, FL

$922,596 $0.00 $0.00 $922,596 11/2017 09/2022

Planning assistance

Planning Assistance for FutureMYIP Revisions

County‐wide (Walton

County, FL) $215,400.00 $0.00 $0.00 $215,400.00 11/2017 09/2030

12. TOTAL FUNDING FOR BUDGET (refer to Instructions) $6,471,391.53 $0.00 $1,735,881.97 $8,207,273.50

According to the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995, no persons are required to respond to a collection of information unless it displays a valid OMB control number. The valid OMB control number for this information collection is 1505‐0250. Comments concerning the time required to compl

instructions, search existing data resources, gathering and maintaining the data needed, and completing and reviewing the collection of information, should be directed to the Department of the Treasury, RESTORE Act Program, 1500 Pennsylvania Ave., NW, Washington, DC 20220.
RESTORE ACT Direct Component Multiyear Plan Narrative

OMB Approval No. 1505-0250

EligibleApplicantName:

POC Name:

POC Title: Coastal Resource Liaison

POC Email: gatmelinda@co.walton.fl.us

POC Phone: +1 (850) 892-8108

B. PROVIDE A BRIEF NARRATIVE THAT DEMONSTRATES:

1. The need, purpose, and objectives for each activity, including a detailed description of each activity.

Project 1: Walton County Artificial Reef Construction – Miramar/Frangista

A. Description:

Construction of the artificial reef will involve the transport and placement of artificial material. The reef material will be

transported by barge and will be deployed within the Miramar “Frangista” Artificial Reef. The patch reef will consist of artificial reef

materials placed in a designated permitted area located 2.4 nautical miles (nm) south of Santa Rosa Beach. The reefs will be managed by

Walton County.

B. Eligible Activity

Promotion of tourism in the Gulf Coast Region, including promotion of recreational fishing

C. Need:

Artificial reefs create and improve underwater habitats for marine fish and marine invertebrate species thereby providing recreational

fishing and diving opportunities as well as creating an opportunity for residents and tourists alike to harvest and consume natural

resources from the Gulf of Mexico. Artificial reef deployments benefit marine habitats and environments, provide economic 

stimulus to adjacent coastal county populations, and offer tourism opportunities to regional, national, and international 

visitors.

D.Purpose:

The purpose of this project is to promote tourism in Walton County through the creation of an artificial reef, thereby creating and

improving underwater habitats for marine fish and marine invertebrate species. In doing so, this project will create an area and

opportunity for residents and tourists alike to enjoy recreational activities such as fishing and diving that will result in the harvest and

consumption of seafood from the Gulf of Mexico. The location of the artificial reef will become a public number (latitude and longitude)

and it is anticipated that residents and tourists both utilize the site.

C. Objective:

The objective of this project is to promote tourism through the construction of an artificial reef habitat for fish and other marine species to 

allow for fishing and diving opportunities. It is expected that within one year of completing the project, colonization of the material with 

invertebrate species will occur, which will create a food source for fish, including game fish. This artificial reef will not only create new 

marine habitat but improve surrounding marine habitat areas as it creates habitat connectivity as well as provides an additional area for 

predation and spawning for resident and migratory marine species. This artificial reef will serve as an area that residents and tourists may 

enjoy recreational activities such as fishing and diving. These two activities (fishing and diving) bring many regional, national, and 

international visitors to the area. 

E. Milestones:

Advertise RFP

Select Contractor

Construct Project

Documentation of Success

F. Location:

The project is located in the Gulf of Mexico, 2.4 miles offshore of Santa Rosa Beach in Walton County, Florida, in the Gulf Coast region.

G. Total Funding Sources:

Direct Component Contribution: $95,121.00 for construction and deployment of artificial reef material.

Name and Contact Information of the Person to be contacted (POC) on matters concerning this Multiyear Implementation Plan:

Walton County

Melinda Gates
Project 2: Student-led Habitat Restoration in Walton County

A. Description:

The Choctawhatchee Basin Alliance (CBA), AmeriCorps and local K-12 students will restore approximately four (4) acres of dune and salt 

marsh habitats within state or county properties located in Walton County. 

B. Eligible Activity

Restoration and protection of the natural resources, ecosystems, fisheries, marine and wildlife habitats, beaches, and coastal wetlands 

of the Gulf Coast Region

C. Need:

Saltmarshplantsprovide essential intertidal habitat,slowdownerosion, and absorbstormwaterrunoff. Sea oats helpto build and

stabilize the dunesystem,whichserves astheprimary defense againsttropicalstorms and also serves as a critical habitatfor

animals, including the endangeredChoctawhatchee BeachMouse. The CBAandWalton County recognize the needtorestoretwo

vitalhabitatswithintheChoctawhatcheeBaywatershed:theChoctawhatcheeBay's critical intertidalhabitat and the ecologically

rare dune systemsthatsurround the coastal dune lakes.

B. Purpose:

The goal of the student-led habitat restoration initiative is to improve degraded coastal and estuarine habitats. This program

helps to benefit two vital habitats within the Choctawhatchee Bay watershed: the Choctawhatchee Bay's critical intertidal habitat

and the ecologically rare dune systems that surround the coastal dune lakes. The student-led habitat restoration program

involves two, hands-on science programs that will produce native plants for restoration at designated sites throughout the

watershed. Native plants produced from these programs will be used to restore two (2) acres of salt marsh and two (2) acres of

dune habitat.

C. Objective:

The objective of the project is to address environmental degradation in the coastal and estuarine portions of the Choctawhatchee 

watershed. CBA proposes a student-led restoration initiative that will restore 2 acres of salt marsh habitat and 2 acres of dune habitat 

at public sites in Walton County. CBA scientists and trained AmeriCorps members will guide a student workforce as they grow, 

maintain, and plant native vegetation to restore ecosystem function to eroded salt marsh and dune habitats. The Direct Component 

funding requested for this project will be used solely to fund restoration of these habitats. Any associated outreach components will be 

funded through other sources.

D.Milestones:

Sign Sub-recipient agreement

Complete restoration activities

Document measure of success

E. Location:

CBA will coordinate with the Florida State Park system and the Walton County Parks and Recreation Department to restore 

approximately four (4) acres of dune and salt marsh habitats on public property in Walton County that benefit the Gulf Coast 

region.

F. Total Funding Sources:

Direct Component Contribution: $113,300.00 for materials, supplies and staffing needed to accomplish the restoration of 2 acres 

of dune habitat and 2 acres of salt marsh habitat
Project 3: Plant Removal and Habitat Improvement in Walton County's Rare Coastal Dune Lakes

A.Description:

The Choctawhatchee Basin Alliance (CBA) and Walton County is proposing a restoration and protection project on the globally rare 

and imperiled coastal dune lakes. The project will address the detrimental exotic invasive plants thriving in and around Walton 

County’s coastal dune lakes by expanding the CBA’s nuisance and exotic treatment and removal program and increasing

knowledge and widespread education about the lakes. An initial round of invasive plant treatment (with herbicide) will be followed

by removal of the treated plant material. Where needed, a second round of follow-up treatment will take place and subsequent

removal of the treated plant material. The same treatment and removal schedule will be repeated one year later. Aquatic plant

surveys of the coastal dune lakes will be conducted.

B. Eligible Activity:

Restoration and protection of the natural resources, ecosystems, fisheries, marine and wildlife habitats, beaches and coastal wetlands 

of the Gulf Coast region.

C. Need:

The most recent aquatic plant surveys completed on the coastal dune lakes revealed that invasive torpedo grass has infested all of

Walton County's globally rare and critically imperiled coastal dune lakes, with other exotic plants such as Chinese tallow trees and

alligator weed also present. Exotic/invasive plants disrupt the delicate balance of ecosystems by: out-competing beneficial native

plants for water, sunlight, nutrients, and space; diminishing biodiversity; reducing food sources and habitat for native wildlife; and

affecting natural fire regimes. These nuisance plants also decrease enjoyment of fishing, hiking, camping, boating, and other

outdoor activities, which are critical to Walton County's economy.

D. Purpose:

The purpose of this project is to restore critical coastal dune lake habitats. Coastal dune lakes are recognized as globally rare and

critically imperiled ecosystems according to the Florida Natural Areas Inventory (2010). The native plant communities that are

preserved will generate many impactful short-term benefits such as: shoreline stabilization, increased plant and animal biodiversity,

and improved water quality. The long-term, permanent result of this project will be a more balanced, connected and sustainable

coastal/estuarine ecosystem.

E. Objective:

The objective of this project is to restore critical coastal dune lake habitat by treating and removing exotic/invasive plants from the

coastal dune lakes' watershed areas and re-vegetating with native plants. By removing the invasive/exotic vegetation and revegetating with appropriate, native plants, these coastal dune lakes will be restored to the diverse habitat that they once were.

F. Milestones:

Sign sub-recipient agreement 

Sub-recipient awards contracts

Begin removal 

End removal

Document measure of success

G. Location:

CR 30A, Santa Rosa Beach, FL. This project is located within and around all existing permitted aquatic plant control sites of coastal

dune lakes in Walton County, Florida and includes: Draper Lake, Camp Creek Lake, Stallworth Lake, Big Redfish Lake, Alligator Lake,

Western lake, Allen Lake, and Oyster Lake.

H. Total Funding Sources:

Direct Component Contribution: $113,300.00 for an invasive/exotic plant contractor, materials and supplies required for treatment 

and re-vegetation including fuel, project assistance (technician labor), as well as a restoration coordinator for all described treatment 

areas.
Project 4: Artificial Reef Deployment and Monitoring

A. Description:

Through Natural Resource Damage Assessment (NRDA) funds, Walton County will be deploying 621 prefabricated artificial reef modules 

within 16 permitted sites off the Coast of Walton County in the Gulf of Mexico. The purpose of the deployment project is to promote 

tourism in the Gulf Coast Region by providing recreational opportunities of fishing and diving through the creation of fish and marine 

life habitat. The South Walton Artificial Reef Association is proposing to use Direct Component funds to monitor the 16 permitted areas

and obtain data to evaluate the NRDA project success and provide additional data that may help advance the science and future 

deployment plans of artificial reefs in Walton County. The proposed monitoring data will include: 

1.) Fish censusthattrack changesin fish speciesrichness and relative abundanceoftheartificialreefs

2.) Invertebrate census that track changes in invertebrate growth on the reefs

3.) Video and still photography to create an historical graphic archive ofthe reefsto document biological changes overtime

4.) Usage surveys to determine the human usage

5.) Track economic indices to determine growth of the marine sector in Walton County

B. Eligible Activity:

Promotion of tourism in the Gulf Coast Region, including promotion of recreational fishing

C. Need:

The need for this project is to increase tourism in Walton County by creating artificial reefs which improve underwater habitats for

marine fish and marine invertebrate species and thereby providing recreational fishing and diving opportunities in the Gulf of

Mexico. The South Walton Artificial Reef Association (SWARA) and Walton County recognizes the need to construct sustainable 

artificial reefs in Walton County. Funds have been obtained for the construction and deployment of 621 pre-fabricated modules

within the 16 permitted artificial reef sites located in Walton County. Direct Component funds will be used to monitor project 

success and provide additional data that may advance the science of artificial reefs in Walton County. 

D.Purpose:

The purpose of the project is to promote tourism by increasing the number of artificial reefs near Walton County thereby creating

and improving underwater habitats for marine fish and marine invertebrate species. The reefs provide recreational fishing and diving 

opportunities for residents and tourists. Studies have shown that artificial reef deployments provide a variety of benefits including 

significant economic benefits to the coastal communities in close proximity to the reefs. The reefs also provide a source of biological 

replenishment to local populations of marine vertebrates and invertebrates. Artificial reefs provide shelter, calm waters, and other 

conditions important to reef fish. Adequate data collection and monitoring is necessary to determine not only the success of an

artificial reef project but also to advance the science of artificial reefs by reporting on findings, lessons learned, etc. Significant

funds have already been secured to install 621 pre-fabricated artificial reef modules within 16 permitted artificial reef sites. Direct 

Component funds will specifically implement the Walton County Artificial Reef Monitoring Plan to determine the success of the

project.

E. Objective:

The objective of this project is to promote tourism in Walton County through the creation of an artificial reef, thereby creating

and improving underwater habitats for marine fish and marine invertebrate species. Direct Component funds will be used to collect

data and monitor the 16 artificial reef sites to determine project success and provide additional data that may advance the science

of artificial reefs in Walton County.

F. Milestones:

Sign Sub-recipient agreement

Successfully implement Monitoring Plan

Documentation of success

G. Location:

Permitted artificial reef sites are located in the Gulf of Mexico from 0.44 nautical miles to 4.4 nautical miles offshore, in water from 

12 ft to 80 ft in depth.

H. Total Funding Sources:

Direct Component Contribution: $472,461.00 for data collection, biological monitoring, and reporting post deployment.

Third-Party Contributions: $1,735,881.97 Deepwater Horizon Natural Resource Damage Assessment funds have been used to deploy 

621 pre-fabricated modules within 16 permitted artificial reef sites located in Walton County.
Project 5: City of Freeport Stormwater Master Plan and Capital Improvement Strategic Plan Update

A. Description:

The proposed project is to develop a Stormwater Master Plan (SMP) for the City of Freeport area with the intent to then fully

implement the SMP at a future date and reduce adverse environmental impacts from stormwater runoff within the City of Freeport

and Choctawhatchee Bay. While the Choctawhatchee watershed continues to support outstanding resources, it has also

experienced many of the impacts that are common to Florida estuaries. These include urban stormwater runoff and other nonpoint

sources of pollution, widespread sedimentation, domestic and industrial wastewater discharges, and habitat loss and degradation. 

B. Eligible Activity:

Planning Assistance

C. Need:

Numerous assessments and reports have documented a high pollutant load associated with stormwater runoff in the waters in and

around the City of Freeport area. The City of Freeport has recognized the need to develop a SMP with the intent to then fully

implement the SMP at a future time and reduce adverse environmental impacts from stormwater runoff within the City and

Choctawhatchee Bay. This SMP will accomplish the following tasks: inventory and map stormwater infrastructure, model stormwater

drainage for every basin within the City, identify both water quality and quantity problems, and prioritize capital improvement

projects aimed at addressing the problem areas.

D. Purpose:

This project will provide planning assistance to develop the SMP for the City of Freeport. It is the intent of the City and Walton 

County to then implement the SMP at a future date. Once implemented, nutrient and sediment loading will be reduced for

Choctawhatchee Bay, and many of the adverse impacts associated with stormwater runoff will be mitigated. The SMP will also meet

Walton County's goals of restoring, protecting, and conserving coastal bays and estuaries, restoring water quality, replenishing and

protecting living coastal and marine resources, and enhancing community resilience.

E. Objective:

The objective of the SMP will be to create an inventory and map of stormwater infrastructure, model stormwater drainage for every

basin within the City, identify both water quality and quantity problems, and prioritize capital improvement projects aimed at

addressing the problem areas. The development of the SMP is a critical first step towards addressing the harmful impacts of

stormwater runoff. The proposed project is forecasted to have an enormous net positive environmental benefit for both

Choctawhatchee Bay and the Gulf of Mexico. These benefits include water quality improvements in receiving waters, sediment

reduction/removal, trash removal, improved resilience, and a community understanding of public efforts being implemented to

improve the waters in their community.

F. Milestones:

Sign sub-recipient agreement

Sub-recipient awards contracts

Draft report 

Final Report

Documentation of Success

G. Location:

City of Freeport, Walton County, Florida in the Gulf Coast region.

H. Total Funding Sources:

Direct Component Contributions: $135,960.00 to develop the SMP for the City of Freeport.
Project 6: Identifying Water Quality Impairments for Lagrange Bayou, Black Creek, and Choctawhatchee Bay

A. Description:

The Water Quality Assessment (WQA) for Lagrange Bayou, Black Creek, and Choctawhatchee Bay is the initial step in a multi-phase

plan for the City to complete the full scope of a project to improve water quality by removing septic tanks near the Bay and providing a

sanitary sewer system connection to the City's WWTF. The proposed project, which is the planning phase only, is to develop a WQA for

the City of Freeport, with the intent to then fully implement the WQA to reduce adverse environmental impacts from stormwater runoff

and failing septic tanks within the City's utility franchise area. Implementation will occur during a future implementation phase. The

WQA will target unincorporated areas of Walton County near LaGrange Bayou, Black Creek and Choctawhatchee Bay. The four project

areas that will be included in the WQA have been identified in the City's draft Capital Improvements Plan (CIP) for sewer improvements.

The Preliminary Design Report (PDR) that is included as part of the WQA is vital for the City to seek additional funding sources to survey,

design, permit, and eventually construct the project (under a future phase). Upon completion of this planning phase, the preliminary

designs generated by this project will be incorporated into the City's CIP for future funding and implementation.

B. Eligible Activity:

Planning Assistance

C. Need:

Numerous assessments and reports have documented a high pollutant load associated with stormwater runoff and septic tanks near 

Choctawhatchee Bay in the waters in and around the City of Freeport. This project will evaluate and prioritize stormwater and nonpoint

source issues near Choctawhatchee Bay in and around the City of Freeport with the intent to then fully implement the best management

practices for improved stormwater conveyance and treatment systems at a future time. It is critical that prior to implementing solutions to

water quality impairments, a comprehensive evaluation and prioritization of issues be identified. This project directly relates to the eligible 

RESTORE activity of planning assistance for the development of infrastructure benefiting the economy or ecological resources. 

D. Purpose:

The purpose of this project is to develop a WQA to identify and evaluate water quality challenges and develop solutions that will result

in improved health of Choctawhatchee Bay. Although this project is for planning only, future efforts will use the results of this project

as the foundation for implementation of solutions.

E. Objective

The WQA for the City of Freeport will accomplish the following tasks: implement additional water quality investigation efforts, continue

evaluation efforts for four identified areas that contribute to the existing water quality issues, provide a PDR that identifies several

alternatives to address the current sources of water quality impairments, and prioritize capital improvement projects aimed at addressing

the problem areas.

F. Milestones:

Sign sub-recipient agreement

Sub-recipient awards contracts

Draft report

Final report

Documentation of Success

G.Location:

City of Freeport, Walton County, Florida, in the Gulf Coast region.

H. Total Funding Sources:

Direct Component Contribution: $141,625.00 to develop the WQA for the City of Freeport.
Project 7:Muscogee Nation of Florida Micro Farm Agritourism Project

A. Description:

The Muscogee Nation of Florida will create an agritourism destination using greenhouse and aquaponics farming techniques for locally

raised tilapia, organic vegetables, native blueberries, and bob white quail on seven acres of combined wetlands and farmland. The

project site is located at 278 Church Road, Bruce, FL 32455. The project will increase area employment by initially hiring two skilled and

three unskilled full time workers however employment within the community is anticipated to increase over time as the business and

marketing of the Micro Farm grow. Local engineers, farm extension services, and universities will cooperatively partner with the Tribe

on the restoration of an historic cypress pond; building a 2,800-foot wetlands walkway and learning pathway; the cultivation and

identification of indigenous species of plants and trees; and the utilization of “green” farming techniques. The Micro Farm will be open

to visitors for touring and to purchase or pick organically produced fruits and vegetables. The project will enable tourists and area

residents and school children to learn about micro farming as a future method of food production and alternative energy sources.

B. Eligible Activity:

Promotion of tourism in the Gulf Coast Region, including promotion of recreational fishing

C. Need:

The promotion of agritourism is a much needed commodity in Walton County. The Muscogee Nation of Florida Micro Farm and Land 

Development project will provide an agritourism destination, where tourists can learn the history and culture of the Muscogee tribe, learn 

about micro farming and buy locally grown produce and farm raised fish as well as the tribal artisans will provide a marketplace to sell 

handmade arts and crafts, including straw baskets, white oak baskets, natural herbal products, and shell artwork. 

D.Purpose:

This project will promote tourism that will benefit the Bruce Community of rural interior Walton County by increasing agritourism into a 

relatively unknown area through the creation of a Tribal Micro Farm that will have locally grown produce and farm raised fish, tribal

arts and crafts, and interactive educational opportunities. With the development of the Micro Farm, lands owned by the Muscogee

Nation of Florida will be visited by tourists as well as by schools located in the surrounding counties.

E. Objective:

This project is intended to promote tourism through the creation of an agritourism business where tourists will be educated on 

new agricultural methods of micro farming and using alternative energy sources. 

F. Milestones

Sign sub-recipient agreement

Start Construction Activities

EndConstructionActivities

Documentation of Success

G. Location:

The project site is located at 278 Church Road, Bruce, Florida 32455, in the Gulf Coast region.

H. Total Funding Source:

Direct Component Contribution: $543,840.00 for the construction, supplies, and staffing of an agritourism operation.
Project 8: County Road 30A Intermodal Transportation Innovation Program (ITIP)

A. Description:

This proposed project will provide the research and development needed to promote sustainable and advanced transportation

solutions to the Walton County population, as well as area tourists, through the use of public workshops, pilot programs and 

proposal development. This planning project will provide a research and development report, which will create the outline 

for addressing future mobility infrastructure needs in Walton County.

B. Eligible Activity:

Planning Assistance

C. Need:

Traffic and parking congestion along County Road (CR) 30A and surrounding roads have become a major safety concern. The

research, development and testing of innovative sustainable and advanced transportation solutions is needed to help solve this

problem. Solutions are needed that focus on building a transportation ecosystem that will position Walton County as a model in the

development of zero emission and intelligent transportation systems and dealing with road congestion and parking issues.

D. Purpose:

CR 30A and surrounding roads and communities of the county are becoming a major traffic and safety concern. According to the FDOT 

Annual Average Daily Traffic Report, the number of vehicles in some of the CR 30A segments can go up to 19,000 per day only in one 

direction. This massive amount of vehicles produces traffic congestion and parking issues that have a negative impact on the rich natural 

resources of the region, its tourism and economic development. In addition, the number of crashes reported by FLHSMV has increased in 

Walton County by 60% since 2011. The purpose of this project is to provide the planning needed to develop an intermodal transportation 

innovation program within Walton County that will create a mobility infrastructure that will benefit both the economy and environment. It 

is expected that through the research and development of this project, a report will be created that Walton County will be able to utilize to 

evaluate additional options for reducing traffic and parking congestion issues along CR 30A and surrounding roads and communities within 

the county. 

E. Objective:

The objective of this project is to provide the planning needed to create a mobility infrastructure project that will benefit both the 

economy and the environment. This project will provide research and development report of inter-modal, sustainable and advanced 

transportation solutions that will contribute to reduce traffic and parking congestion along CR 30A through public workshops, pilot 

programs, proposal developments.

F. Milestones:

Sign Sub-recipient agreement

Conduct proposed planning activities

Documentation of Success

G. Location:

This project is in Walton County, Florida in the Gulf Coast region.

H. Total Funding Source:

Direct Component Contribution: $135,960 for the planning assistance needed for an intermodal transportation innovation program and 

future mobility infrastructure.
Project 9: Old Town of Santa Rosa TMDL Water Quality Restoration, Phase I

A. Description:

This project will enable the County to conduct a drainage study and develop a stormwater master plan for the area of Old Town Santa

Rosa. This project will become the foundation for future phases of the project to design, permit, and construct the necessary

improvements. This Comprehensive Stormwater Master Plan (CSMP) will accomplish the following tasks: inventory and map stormwater

infrastructure, model stormwater drainage for the Old Town of Santa Rosa area, identify both water quality and quantity problems, and

prioritize projects aimed at addressing the problem areas. The planning and tasks associated with this project will result in a CSMP for

the Old Town of Santa Rosa area that will be used for future infrastructure improvements benefiting the economy or ecological 

resources.

B. Eligible Activity:

Planning Assistance

C. Need:

The Walton County Board of County Commissioners recognizes the need for a CSMP for the Old Town of Santa Rosa area. This area has

several currently known issues including an old platted subdivision with no master stormwater plan, high ground water table in the

area, several wetlands, a large portion located in the coastal high hazard area, localized flooding issues, poor soils, and approximately

10.29 miles of non-paved roads contributing to the sediment load of Choctawhatchee Bay. The CSMP will evaluate issues and offer

solutions to alleviate these problems.

D. Purpose:

The purpose of this project is to create a CSMP to address stormwater management needs in the Old Town of Santa Rosa area and identify 

infrastructure projects that will address water quality and quantity issues. This project has both a local benefit to the watershed within the

Old Town of Santa Rosa area, as well as Walton County and the Choctawhatchee Bay watershed as a whole.

E. Objective:

The objective of this project is to conduct a drainage study and develop a comprehensive stormwater master plan for the area of Old

Town Santa Rosa, in order to reduce flooding that affects over 300 residents and improve water quality. This proposed project will

develop solutions (to be constructed under a future phase) that will help reduce the sediment pollution into the Choctawhatchee Bay

watershed, ultimately improving the habitat of many marine and freshwater species, including seagrasses. Once constructed (under a

future phase) the project is expected to benefit the economy and ecological resources.

F. Milestones:

Advertise RFP

Select contractor

Draft report 

Finalize report

Documentation of Success

G. Location:

This project is located within the Old Town Santa Rosa watershed, Walton County, Florida, which is in the Gulf Coast region.

H. Total Funding Sources:

Direct Component Contribution: $594,506.37 to develop the CSMP for the Old Town of Santa Rosa area.
Project 10: Coastal Dune Lakes Hydrologic Restoration Project

A. Description:

This project will include the design, permitting, and construction of bridges that will replace old culverts that connect the northern and 

southern portions of Walton County’s Globally Rare and imperiled Coastal Dune Lakes. The old culverts will be removed and replaced with 

newly constructed bridges.

B. Eligible Activity:

Infrastructure project benefiting the economy or ecological resources, including port infrastructure

C. Need:

The Walton County Board of County Commissioners recognize that certain old and dilapidated culverts under County Road 30A need

to be replaced with bridges for motorists’ safety and to restore the connection and circulation of the coastal dune lakes and

improve the lakes’ natural communities and adjacent ecosystems. These coastal dune lakes are classified by the Florida Natural Areas

Inventory as globally imperiled because of their rarity and vulnerability. The culverts act as physical barriers to fish and wildlife

migrations, making it difficult for them to pass from one side to the other. Sediments accumulate on the upstream side of the culverts

causing the depth of water to be dramatically different on the north and south side of the road. Additionally, the culverts restrict the

lakes from flushing naturally. As a result, the north side of each lake has become an exclusively freshwater system while the south side

has retained the brackish characteristics of a coastal dune lake.

D.Purpose:

The purpose of this project is to replace dilapidated culverts with bridges for motorists’ safety while restoring the connection and 

circulation of coastal dune lakes and improving associated natural communities.

E. Objective:

The objective of this project is to remove old and dilapidated culverts under County Road 30A and replace them with bridges for

motorists’ safety and water quality improvement in the targeted lakes. The project will decrease the effects of storm water runoff and

improve flood protection by allowing the lakes to flush when the natural openings occur, thereby enhancing fish and wildlife habitats.

F. Milestones:

Advertise RFP

Select Contractor

Complete Design and Permitting

Start Construction

EndConstruction

Documentation of Success

G.Location:

This project is located along CR 30A in Walton County, Florida, in the Gulf Coast region.

H. Total Funding Sources:

Direct Component Contribution: $1,175,396.16 for the design, permitting, engineering, and construction of the project.
Project 11: Walton County Stormwater Projects – Western Lake Basin, Allen Loop Road, Gulf Club Drive, and Mack Bayou Road

Drainage Improvements

A. Description:

This project will implement conveyance and stormwater improvements with the Western Lake Basin, Allen Loop Road, Gulf Club Drive, and 

Mack Bayou Road. The proposed improvements will address the much needed coastal flood protection within the southern portion of the 

County. 

B. Eligible Activity:

Coastal flood protection and related infrastructure

C. Need:

The Walton County Board of County Commissioners recognizes the need for stormwater and drainage improvements on several roads

within subdivisions/neighborhoods throughout Walton County. Several roads and subdivisions have been documented to flood during 100-

year storms, making them impassible and creating emergency ingress/egress issues for local neighborhoods. Stormwater from unimproved 

roads carry sediment and other pollutants into the Choctawhatchee Bay. 

D.Purpose:

The purpose of this project is to address life safety and emergency ingress/egress issues for the aforementioned neighborhoods. This

will be done by improving stormwater systems to prevent flooding of these roadways during a 100-year storm. These drainage

improvements will make critical upgrades to Walton County's stormwater and drainage infrastructure and help improve the water 

quality of the beach and bay system, enhancing the habitat of many marine and freshwater animal species.

E. Objective:

The objective of this project is to implement conveyance and stormwater improvement upgrades around Western Lake, Allen Loop 

Road, Gulf Club Drive and Mack Bayou Road to improve stormwater drainage in neighborhoods that are currently lacking

infrastructure. The proposed drainage improvements will alleviate flooding of roadways for subdivisions and will provide temporary

storage and treatment of stormwater runoff to capture a variety of pollutants that would otherwise end up in area waterways.

F. Milestones

Advertise RFP

Select Contractor

Complete design and permitting

Start construction

Endconstruction

Documentation of Success

G. Location:

Multiple roads in southern portion of Walton County, Florida, in the Gulf Coast region.

H. Total Funding Sources:

Direct Component Contribution: $1,811,926 for the design, permitting, and construction of the project.
Project 12: Walton County Stormwater Projects –Palmetto Road and Bay Grove Road Drainage Improvements

A. Description:

This project will implement conveyance and stormwater drainage improvements to Palmetto Road and Bay Grove Road. The 

proposed improvements will address the much needed coastal flood protection north of the Choctawhatchee Bay. 

B. Eligible Activity:

Coastal flood protection and related infrastructure

C. Need:

The Walton County Board of County Commissioners recognizes the need for stormwater and drainage improvements on Walton County 

roads (Palmetto Road and Bay Grove Road). Currently, flooding on unimproved roads affects neighborhoods and limits the use of these 

roads for hurricane evacuation. Stormwater and drainage improvements will also address water quality concerns. Stormwater from these 

roads carry pollutants into the Choctawhatchee Bay, and ultimately into the Gulf of Mexico.

D. Purpose:

The purpose of this project is to address emergency ingress/egress problems associated with roadway flooding, make improvements to

drainage systems, eliminate flooding in neighborhoods surrounding ponds and lakes during 25- to 100-year storm events, and provide

treatment prior to discharge into adjacent water bodies.

E. Objective:

The objective of this project is to make critical upgrades to Walton County's stormwater and drainage infrastructure and help improve

water quality. These improvements will also accomplish flood mitigation, resulting in increased level of service and an improved

hurricane evacuation route. The proposed upgrades and additions will be able to provide temporary storage and treatment of

stormwater runoff and capture a variety of pollutants that would otherwise end up in these waterbodies. These proposed

improvements will help reduce sediment pollution into the Choctawhatchee Bay system, thus improving the habitat of many marine

and freshwater animal species.

F. Milestones

Advertise RFP

Select Contractor

Complete design and permitting

Start construction

Endconstruction

Documentation of Success

G. Location:

Multiple roads north of the Choctawhatchee Bay in Walton County, Florida in the Gulf Coast region.

H. Total Funding Source: 

Direct Component Contribution: $922,596 for the design, permitting, engineering, and construction of the project.
Project 13: Planning Assistance for Future MYIP Revisions

A. Description:

Walton County will develop a revised Multi-year Implementation Plan (MYIP) to submit to Treasury following the policies and procedures

of the RESTORE Act and related guidance. This will include the RESTORE Act Direct Component Multiyear Plan Matrix, RESTORE Act Direct

Component Multiyear Plan Narrative, a Location Map of all projects, an explanation of how project selection criteria and priorities were

developed, and significant broad-based public involvement, at a minimum. Walton County is expected to receive $31,645,606 from the BP

settlement; the revised MYIP will create a plan to allocate these funds.

B. Eligible Activity:

Planning Assistance

C. Need:

Walton County is submitting a MYIP in 2016 that will allocate $6,732,188 in RESTORE Act Direct Component funds; however, 

approximately an additional $31,000,000 resulting from the BP settlement must be allocated in a future revision of the MYIP in order for 

the County to access funds. It is anticipated that the first year payment from BP will be deposited into the Trust Fund and available to 

Walton County in April 2017. Walton County will need to provide a revised MYIP to Treasury to allocate funds from BP.

D. Purpose:

The purpose of this project is to develop an amended MYIP for Walton County based on known allocations from the BP settlement.

The revised MYIP will allow Walton County to apply for projects funded by the BP settlement.

E. Objective:

The objective of this project is to develop and submit a revised/updated MYIP to Treasury that includes a plan for BP settlement funds.

F. Milestones

To complete updated MYIP requirements from the Department of Treasury.

G. Location:

This project will occur in Walton County, Florida in the Gulf Coast region.

H. Total Funding Sources:

Direct Component Contribution: $215, 400 for future amendments to Walton County's MYIP.
2. How the applicant made the multiyear plan available for 45 days for public review and comment, in a manner calculated to obtain broad-based

participation from individuals, businesses, Indian tribes, and non-profit organizations, such as through public meetings, presentations in languages other

than English, and postings on the Internet. The applicant will need to submit documentation (e.g., a copy of public notices) to demonstrate that it made its

multiyear plan available to the public for at least 45 days. In addition, describe how each activity in the plan was adopted after consideration of all

meaningful input from the public.

Each activity in the plan was adopted after consideration of all meaningful input from the public. The County made the plan available

on their website (and in person via hard copy) for 45 days and advertised the availability of the plan in the local newspaper. Over the

last three years, the County has held dozens of public meetings, developed a stakeholder list, and established a Local Restore

Committee. Through these efforts, the County has developed broad based participation in this process as evidenced by attendance

at public meetings and the call for project response. Individuals, non-profits, businesses, and Indian tribes were all involved in the

process and submitted project proposals to the County. Ultimately, the County held several public meetings to rank and approve the

final activity list. However, no public comments were received during the official 45 day public comment period, July 22, 2016 to 

September 5, 2016. The County Restore Coordinator received several phone calls inquiring on the process approval status; but no

written comments were received.

Since the 45-day public comment period, the following modifications to the Walton County Multi-Year Implementation Plan have been 

made:

Project 1: Walton County Artificial Reef Construction – Miramar

The project narrative was modified. The material to be deployed will be in compliance with state and federal permits. 

Project 2: Student-led Habitat Restoration in Walton County

The project narrative was modified to emphasize the primary purpose of the restoration activities. 

Project 3: Plant Removal and Habitat Improvement in Walton County's Rare Coastal Dune Lakes

The project narrative was modified to emphasize the primary purpose of the restoration activities.

Project 4: Artificial Reef Deployment and Monitoring

The project narrative was modified to show that significant funds were obtained to construct artificial reefs within the Gulf of 

Mexico through Deepwater Horizon Natural Resource Damage Assessment funds and the direct components identified in this 

project are a companion project that will be utilized to monitor the success of the material and provide data for any future 

reef deployments.

Project 5: City of Freeport Stormwater Master Plan and Capital Improvement Strategic Plan Update

The project narrative was modified to clarify any eligible activity discrepancies.

Project 6: Identifying Water Quality Impairments for LaGrange Bayou, Black Creek, and Choctawhatchee Bay

The project narrative was modified to clarify any eligible activity discrepancies.

Project 7: Muscogee Nation of Florida Micro Farm and Land Development Project

The project narrative was modified to emphasize the primary RESTORE Act eligible use of promoting tourism in the Gulf Coast 

Region.

Project 8: CR 30 A Intermodal Transportation Innovation Program (ITIP) 

The project narrative was modified to clearly outline the RESTORE Act eligible activity.

Project 9: Old Town of Santa Rosa TMDL Water Quality Restoration, Phase I

Clarifying changes were made to the project narrative.

Project 10: Coastal Dune Lakes Hydrologic Restoration Project

The project narrative was modified to remove the specific lake names because other funding may become available to 

construct components of the proposed project. 

Project 11: Walton County Stormwater Projects – Western Lake Basin, Allen Loop Road, Golf Club Drive and Mack Bayou Road

Drainage Improvements

The project narrative was modified to remove Bunker Place Rd from the list for consideration because the County does not 

have access to construct the project. Additionally Project 11 and 12 were reorganized to show regional significance. Project 

11 is the south of the Choctawhatchee Bay projects and Project 12 is the north of the Choctawhatchee Bay projects. The 

monetary total value of Project 11 and 12 has not increased and the specific details of the project have not changed. Be 

advised that the individual BCC approved stormwater projects were consolidated into two regional projects to reduce the 

number of grant applications submitted at a later date. 
Project 12: Walton County Stormwater Projects –Palmetto Road and Bay Grove Road Drainage Improvements

Project 11 and 12 were reorganized to show regional significance. Project 11 is the south of the Choctawhatchee Bay projects

and Project 12 is the north of the Choctawhatchee Bay projects. The monetary total value of Project 11 and 12 has not 

increased and the specific details of the project have not changed. Be advised that the individual BCC approved stormwater 

projects were consolidated into two regional projects to reduce the number of grant applications submitted at a later date. 

Project 13: Planning Assistance for Future MYIP Revisions

The project narrative was modified to address comments by the Department of Treasury.

Changes were made to the third-party funding acknowledgment to be consistent with Department of Treasury guidance. 
The following described activities included in the multiyear plan matrix are eligible for funding under the RESTORE Act. Each activity

in the Plan was adopted after consideration of meaningful input from the public, further described in Section B.5 and the MYIP 

Supplemental Narrative.

Project 1: Walton County Artificial Reef Construction – Miramar

A. PrimaryEligibleActivity: Promotion of tourism in the Gulf Coast Region, including recreational fishing since artificial reefs create and

improve underwater habitats for marine fish and marine invertebrate species thereby providing recreational fishing and diving

opportunities for tourists.

B. GeographicEligibility:The project will occur in the Gulf of Mexico, 2.4 miles offshore of Santa Rosa Beach in Walton

County, Florida, in the Gulf Coast region

Project 2: Student-led Habitat Restoration in Walton County

A. PrimaryEligibleActivity:Restoration and protection ofthe naturalresources, ecosystems, fisheries, marine and wildlife habitats,

beaches and coastal wetlands of the Gulf Coast region by restoring approximately four (4) acres of dune and salt marsh habitat in 

the Gulf coast region.

B. Geographic Eligibility: The project will occur in multiple locations throughout Walton County, Florida, in the Gulf Coast region

Project 3: Plant Removal and Habitat Improvement in Walton County's Rare Coastal Dune Lakes

A. PrimaryEligibleActivity:Restoration and protection ofthe naturalresources, ecosystems, fisheries, marine and wildlife habitats,

beaches and coastal wetlands of the Gulf Coast region by removing nuisance exotic vegetation from the coastal dune lakes, it will 

restore the natural coastal dune lake habitat.

B. Geographic Eligibility: The project will occur in multiple locations throughout Walton County, Florida, in the Gulf Coast region

Project 4: Artificial Reef Deployment and Monitoring

A. PrimaryEligibleActivity: Promotion of tourism in the Gulf Coast Region, including recreational fishing since artificial reefs

create and improve underwater habitats for marine fish and marine invertebrate species thereby providing recreational

fishing and diving opportunities for tourists.

B. GeographicEligibility:The project will occur at varioussitesin the Gulf of Mexico offshore of Walton County, Florida, in the Gulf

Coast region

Project 5: City of Freeport Stormwater Master Plan and Capital Improvement Strategic Plan Update

A. PrimaryEligibleActivity:Planning assistance for future infrastructure projects that will benefit the economy and environment in the 

Freeport area by providing a stormwater master plan to identify future phase infrastructure needs.

B. GeographicEligibility: This project will occur in the City of Freeport in Walton County, Florida, in the Gulf Coast region

Project 6: Identifying Water Quality Impairments for LaGrange Bayou, Black Creek, and Choctawhatchee Bay

A. PrimaryEligibleActivity:Planning assistance for future phase infrastructure projects that will benefit the economy and environment 

in the Freeport area by providing a water quality impairment report to identify future infrastructure needs.

B. GeographicEligibility: This project will occur in the City of Freeport in Walton County, Florida, in the Gulf Coast region

Project 7:MuscogeeNationof FloridaMicro FarmandLandDevelopment Project

A. Primary Eligible Activity: Promotion oftourism in the Gulf Coastregion, including recreational fishing by creating an agri-tourism 

destination open to the public and tourists. 

B. Geographic Eligibility: This project will occur in the unincorporated municipality of Bruce Community in Walton County, Florida, in

the Gulf Coastregion

Project 8: CR 30 A Intermodal Transportation Innovation Program (ITIP) (CHANGE)

A. Primary Eligible Activity: Planning assistance for future infrastructure projects benefiting the economy or ecological resources by 

providing research and development that can be used for future phase infrastructure needs.

B. Geographic Eligibility: This project will occur in Walton County, Florida, in the Gulf Coast region

Project 9: Old Town of Santa Rosa TMDL Water Quality Restoration, Phase I

A. Primary Eligible Activity: Planning assistance for future coastal flood protection and related infrastructure by providing a master 

stormwater plan to identify future phase infrastructure needs. 

B. Geographic Eligibility: The project will occur in the Old Town of Santa Rosa in Walton County, Florida, in the Gulf Coast region

Project 10: Coastal Dune Lakes Hydrologic Restoration Project

A. PrimaryEligibleActivity:Infrastructure projects benefiting the economy or ecological resources, including port infrastructure by 

construction of bridge infrastructure. 

B. GeographicEligibility:This project will occur in Walton County, Florida, in the Gulf Coastregion

3. How each activity included in the applicant's multiyear plan matrix is eligible for funding and meets all requirements under the RESTORE Act.
Project 11: Walton County Stormwater Projects – Western Lake Basin, Allen Loop Road, Golf Club Drive and Mack Bayou Road Drainage

Improvements

A. PrimaryEligibleActivity: Coastalfloodprotectionandrelatedinfrastructure by the construction of drainage improvements south of 

the Choctawhatchee Bay in Walton County.

B. Geographic Eligibility: The project will occur southern portion of Walton County, Florida, in the Gulf Coastregion

Project 12: Walton County Stormwater Projects –Palmetto Road and Bay Grove Road Drainage Improvements

A. PrimaryEligibleActivity:Coastalfloodprotectionandrelatedinfrastructure by the construction of drainage improvements north of 

the Choctawhatchee Bay in Walton County.

B. GeographicEligibility: The project will occur north of the Choctawhatchee Bay in Walton County, Florida, in the Gulf Coast region

Project 13: Planning Assistance for Future MYIP Revisions

A. Primary EligibleActivity: Planning assistance for amendment of the Multiyear Implementation Plan

B. GeographicEligibility:This project will occur in Walton County, Florida, in the Gulf Coastregion
4. How the applicant will evaluate success of the activities included in the matrix.

Project 1: Walton County Artificial Reef Construction - Miramar

The success of this project will be evaluated by the increase in tourism resources.

Project 2: Student-led Habitat Restoration in Walton County

The success of this project will be evaluated based on the amount of area restored. 

Project 3: Plant Removal and Habitat Improvement in Walton County's Rare Coastal Dune Lakes

The success of this project will be evaluated based on the amount of area restored.

Project 4: Artificial Reef Deployment and Monitoring

The success of this project will be evaluated by the increase in tourism resources. 

Project 5: City of Freeport Stormwater Master Plan and Capital Improvement Strategic Plan Update 

The success of this project will be evaluated by the creation of a Stormwater Master Plan by the City of Freeport which addresses 

stormwater and infrastructure needs.

Project 6: Identifying Water Quality Impairments for LaGrange Bayou, Black Creek, and Choctawhatchee Bay 

The success of this project will be evaluated by the creation of a Water Quality Assessment Report by the City of Freeport which 

addresses solutions to water quality impairments and necessary infrastructure needs to address those issues.

Project 7: Muscogee Nation of Florida Micro Farm and Land Development Project

The success of this project will be evaluated by the increase in tourism resources.

Project 8: CR 30 A Intermodal Transportation Innovation Program (ITIP)

The success of this project will be evaluated by completion of the research and development report which addresses solutions to 

mobility infrastructure needs in Walton County. 

Project 9: Old Town of Santa Rosa TMDL Water Quality Restoration, Phase I

The success of this project will be evaluated by the creation of a Comprehensive Stormwater Master Plan which identifies solutions to 

infrastructure and coastal flood protection needs in Walton County.

Project 10: Coastal Dune Lakes Hydrologic Restoration Project

The success of this project will be evaluated by the creation of bridge infrastructure along CR 30A for the benefit of the economy and 

the environment. 

Project 11: Walton County Stormwater Projects – Western Lake Basin, Allen Loop Road, Golf Club Drive and Mack Bayou Road

Drainage Improvements

The success of this project will be evaluated by the construction of infrastructure which addresses coastal flood protection south of the 

Choctawhatchee Bay in Walton County. 

Project 12: Walton County Stormwater Projects –Palmetto Road and Bay Grove Road Drainage Improvements

The success of this project will be evaluated by the construction of infrastructure which addresses coastal flood protection north of the 

Choctawhatchee Bay in Walton County. 

Project 13: Planning Assistance for Future MYIP Revisions

The success of this project will be evaluated by completion of an amended MYIP, adoption of the amended MYIP by Walton County, 

and submittal of the amended MYIP to Treasury.
Criteria Used to Establish Multi-Year Plan Priorities:

In April 2013, Walton County began developing guidelines for use of Direct Component funds. At the May 14, 2013 BCC meeting, a set 

of specific evaluation criteria was discussed and adopted. At the May 22, 2013 LRC meeting, an evaluation and criteria subcommittee

was formed and subsequently held ten (10) meetings over the next 18 months. On May 28, 2013, Walton County adopted Resolution

2013-25 to ratify the guidance and to ratify the Local RESTORE Committee (LRC) in order to engage citizen input throughout the MYIP 

process. Eleven members were appointed to the LRC representing a set of diverse interests including environmental, economic

development, coastal restoration/management, business, tourism, fishing, health/human services, community leaders, education, and

arts/culture. Also at the May 28, 2013 BCC meeting, the BCC assigned percentage values based on importance to each of the eligible

activity categories provided in the RESTORE Act plus the following factors developed by the LRC subcommittee:

• Area of impact;

• Economic benefit;

• Environmental benefit;

• Ability to leverage otherfunding sources;

• Long termimplications(value andcost);

• Shovel readiness;

• Comprehensive Plan projects;

• Comprehensive Plan compliance;

• Capital Improvement Plan projects; and

• Funding amountrequested.

On February 11, 2015, the LRC approved the final draft RESTORE Act Project Funding Application and the final draft RESTORE Evaluation

Matrix. On February 24, 2015, the BCC reviewed and approved the final RESTORE Act Project Funding Application and final RESTORE

Evaluation Matrix. On June 3, 2015, the LRC voted to approve the utilization of a Feasibility Review Panel made up of County staff, which

would provide technical and compliance reports to the LRC on each project. At this meeting, the LRC also set the date for the project

submission period and decided it would be open for a period of 121 days. Ultimately the LRC and the BOCC settled on a total scoring

regime that included an application score, allowable use score, and project type score. The adopted RESTORE Act Scoring Criteria,

Guidelines, and Evaluation Matrix can be found on the Walton County website (http://www.co.walton.fl.us/DocumentCenter/).

How the Activities included in the Multiyear Plan Matrix were prioritized:

Walton County followed an established objective process for prioritizing projects in the MYIP. The County chose to allow members of the

public to submit project proposals to the County that would then be reviewed, scored, and ranked based on the criteria outlined in the

previous section. By inviting the public at large to submit project proposals, Walton County aimed to attract a broad range of interests

County-wide. The County issued a public notice to open the process for RESTORE project submittals on April 1, 2015. A public workshop

was held on March 24, 2015 to walk applicants through the project submittal process and explain the adopted RESTORE Act Scoring

Criteria, Guidelines, and Evaluation Matrix. Projects were submitted via email and in hard copy to the County for consideration of funding.

The window for project submittals was open for a period of 121 days until July 31, 2015 and during this period a total of 42 project

submissions were received. A copy of the Walton County RESTORE Act Project Funding Application can be found on the Walton County 

website (http://www.co.walton.fl.us/DocumentCenter/). Once the project submittal period closed to the public, Walton County tasked the

individual members of the LRC with reviewing each project and providing a numeric score in accordance with the adopted Walton County

RESTORE Act Scoring Criteria, Guidelines, and Evaluation Matrix. In September through October of 2015, the LRC scored each project and

County staff compiled the scores into a spreadsheet. The LRC held public meetings on September 23, 2015, October 7, 2015, and October

21, 2015 to review and discuss the scored projects. County staff then compiled the final LRC scores into a ranked prioritized funding list.

The LRC held a public meeting on December 1, 2015 and approved a prioritized project funding list to be recommended to the BCC. On

January 26, 2016, the BCC held a public meeting to discuss the projects recommended for funding. Projects scopes and budgets were

discussed as well as the potential to phase some projects. Project submitters from the public spoke before the Board to provide an

overview of their projects and the need for funding. Ultimately, the BCC voted to approve the projects as presented for Phase I with the

addition of one project – the International Transportation Innovation Center (ITIC), Phase I. The minutes of the December 1, 2015 LRC

meeting and January 26, 2016 BCC meeting can be found on the Walton County website (http://www.co.walton.fl.us/DocumentCenter/).

Walton County Board of County Commissioners approved seven (7) stormwater projects, which address coastal flood protection and related 

infrastructure needs in Walton County, to be included in the Phase 1 Multi-year Implementation Plan. To reduce the number of grant 

applications submitted to the Department of Treasury, Walton County consolidated those projects into two (2) regionally located projects: 

south of the Choctawhatchee Bay and north of the Choctawhatchee Bay. One (1) stormwater project (Bunker Place) was removed from the 

January 26, 2016 BCC approved list because the County determined that there was not proper right-of-entry authorized for the site.

5. How the activities included in the multiyear plan matrix were prioritized and the criteria used to establish the priorities.
According to the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995, no persons are required to respond to a collection of information unless it displays a valid OMB control number. The valid

OMB control number for this information collection is 1505-0250. Comments concerning the time required to complete this information collection, including the time to review

instructions, search existing data resources, gathering and maintaining the data needed, and completing and reviewing the collection of information, should be directed to the

Department of the Treasury, RESTORE Act Program, 1500 Pennsylvania Ave., NW, Washington, DC 20220.

6. The relationship, if any, between the activities the applicant included in the multiyear plan matrix and other activities funded under the RESTORE Act.

Project 4: Artificial Reef Deployment and Monitoring

Project 4 is a companion project with Deepwater Horizon Natural Resource Damage Assessment funds granted to Walton County to 

construct artificial reefs in the Gulf of Mexico. 

No other known relationships between any of the activities included in the multiyear plan matrix and other activities funded under the

RESTORE Act.