The Bradenton Community Redevelopment Agency has received statewide recognition for Project Fortify, a program designed to help low-income homeowners make their properties more resilient to hurricanes and severe weather.
The Florida Redevelopment Association presented the agency with a Roy F. Kenzie Award in the Innovative Blight Management Programs (Large City) category, according to an announcement from the City of Bradenton on Tuesday, Nov. 10.
Project Fortify combines redevelopment agency grants with funding from Florida’s State Housing Initiatives Partnership (SHIP) program, administered locally by the city’s Housing and Community Development Division.
The program provides financial assistance for storm-resistant home improvements, including impact-resistant windows, wind-rated metal roofs, reinforced exterior doors and garage door upgrades. These improvements are intended to reduce storm damage and improve the safety and durability of homes.
The initiative is particularly significant following hurricanes Helene and Milton, which affected the Bradenton area in 2024 and highlighted the importance of strengthening residential properties against future storms.
By helping homeowners complete improvements that might otherwise be financially out of reach, Project Fortify also supports neighborhood preservation and the long-term maintenance of existing housing.
The Roy F. Kenzie Awards recognize redevelopment initiatives across Florida that demonstrate innovative approaches to community improvement and revitalization.
Residents interested in learning more about Project Fortify and available assistance can contact Todd Campbell with the City of Bradenton at Todd.Campbell@BradentonFL.gov.
