Bonifay, FL — April 22nd, 2025— The City of Bonifay is proud to announce the launch of a critical infrastructure project designed to address longstanding flooding issues in the downtown area. This effort stems from the City’s 2021 Stormwater Drainage Study, which identified key challenges in the existing drainage systems and provided a roadmap for improvements aimed at reducing flooding and supporting future downtown development.
The study, completed in partnership with engineers and planning experts, revealed several deficiencies including incomplete drainage networks, undersized pipes and structures, and a lack of cohesive design and system capacity. These conditions have led to frequent flooding events—sometimes triggered by even brief periods of heavy rainfall—posing a threat to both current and future business activity in Bonifay’s downtown core.
As a direct response, the City is moving forward with a multi-faceted stormwater improvement plan. The City received $2.5 million in funding from the Florida Department of Environmental Protection’s (FDEP) Resilient Florida Program to implement the improvements. This critical support will enable Bonifay to reduce flooding, improve water quality, and enhance long-term resilience in the downtown area and along US Highway 90. The centerpiece of this effort is the construction of a 0.64-acre wet-detention stormwater treatment and flood mitigation facility. This new facility will provide critical water quality treatment, slow and control stormwater flow, reduce erosion, and help protect both public infrastructure and private property from flooding.
The City has worked in close coordination with DHM Melvin Engineering, the Northwest Florida Water Management District (NWFWMD), and local officials to navigate the permitting process and ensure the project’s success. The City is also working with Emerald Coast Site Construction (ECSC) on this project.
Also included in the project is the reconstruction of the Moody Street culvert, a major contributor to localized flooding issues. The existing concrete box culvert will be replaced with a more robust triple 6’x4’ box culvert, featuring improved capacity and resiliency. Supporting infrastructure will include new curb inlets, 60-inch culverts, end treatments, riprap, and a new outfall structure. The project also encompasses roadway reconstruction, curb and gutter installation, new asphalt paving, pavement markings, and traffic signage to restore and improve transportation access.
The City of Bonifay is committed to investing in smart, forward-looking infrastructure that protects its community and lays the foundation for continued growth. This stormwater project is a significant step in that direction.
In addition to this project, the City of Bonifay is also preparing to launch a second stormwater infrastructure project targeting persistent flood-prone areas in residential neighborhoods. The City was awarded $1,233,000 through the Florida Commerce Rural Infrastructure Fund (RIF) Program to upgrade culverts at St. Johns Avenue, Hightower Avenue, Jernigan Avenue, and Clifford Street. These locations were identified in prior studies as having inadequate cross-drainage. This project will reduce flood risks, improve stormwater conveyance, and provide lasting protection to homes and businesses on the south side of the City.
“Our city is improving because of the proactive efforts to strengthen our local infrastructure, protect the community, and build a more resilient Bonifay. Both of these projects will significantly impact our community in many ways. We are so appreciative of all the entities we are working with to make this happen.” Says Mayor Larry F. Cook
For more information on these projects, contact Sierra Smith at Sierra.Smith [at] cityofbonifay.com (Sierra[dot]Smith[at]cityofbonifay[dot]com)