Bradenton’s ‘Project Fortify’ wins state award

BRADENTON, Fla. (WWSB) - The Bradenton Community Redevelopment Agency has received a state award for Project Fortify, a program that helps low-income homeowners strengthen their homes against storms, the city announced Tuesday.Project Fortify received a Roy F. Kenzie Award from the Florida Redevelopment Association in the Innovative Blight Management Programs (Large City) category, according to the city.The program combines redevelopment agency grants with funding from the State Housing Initiatives Partnership program. The city’s Housing and Community Development Division administers the state program.Sarasota Memorial named on “World’s Best Smart Hospitals,” listThe money helps pay for improvements such as impact-resistant windows, wind-rated metal roofs, stronger exterior doors and garage door reinforcements. The work is intended to help protect homes during severe weather.The city cited the effects of hurricanes Helene and Milton on the Bradenton area in 2024 as a reason for ongoing