$82.6 Million Allotted to Improve Road Safety
The U.S. Department of Transportation revealed recently that it has assigned $82.6 million for grants to ensure road safety in 46 states.
Some of these funds are specifically designated for important projects related to truck transportation in several states, including Colorado, Florida, Indiana, New Jersey, and Vermont.
Pete Buttigieg, the Transportation Secretary, spoke about this issue on October 27. He highlighted concerns that almost 14,000 fatalities occurred in the communities receiving these grants over the past five years. Buttigieg also stressed the importance of the allotted funding in enabling targeted safety measures, ultimately aiming to save lives.
The DOT outlined the planned use of these grants, which include creating safety action plans and implementing improvements along vulnerable routes. They are also experimenting with “quick-build” strategies such as designated bicycle lanes and intersection enhancements, and other related initiatives. This grant program is a crucial part of the agency’s comprehensive national strategy for road safety.
Polly Trottenberg, the Deputy Transportation Secretary, expressed enthusiasm for collaborating with diverse communities nationwide to quickly develop effective safety plans.
Multiple States with Big Plans for Grant Money
Rifle, Colorado received $120,000 to conduct a thorough safety analysis and devise a plan to reduce fatalities and serious injuries. The town encounters safety challenges due to heavy traffic on Interstate 70 and Colorado State Highway 13, combined with challenging weather conditions that require alternative routes.
Pasco County in Florida is set to receive $320,000 in federal funding to support a $400,000 safety action plan. Their aim is to reduce transportation-related fatalities and injuries on county roads. Positioned strategically on the Gulf Coast, the county serves as a vital access point to major seaports, the Tampa International Airport, rail lines, and highways, facilitating efficient transport of goods. Despite its advantageous position, the county has been struggling with a high volume of accidents, requiring prompt safety measures.
The city of Rushville, Indiana plans to use its federal grant to implement a $984,500 road safety plan. The region has experienced an increase in commercial traffic, raising safety concerns for road users, including motorists, local agricultural producers, and the Amish community.
Edison Township in New Jersey has secured a $320,000 grant to develop a comprehensive travel safety plan. Due to its dense urban population, insufficient pedestrian infrastructure, and considerable truck traffic, the township has been dealing with various road safety challenges.
Authorities in Lamoille County, Vermont, have allocated a $107,348 federal award to strengthen road safety measures for all travelers. Their initiatives will focus on assessing safety risks associated with freight trucks, passenger vehicles, and other commuters, with the aim of implementing effective infrastructure solutions.
Buttigieg is expected to announce additional road safety grants later in the year. Reaffirming the DOT’s commitment to prioritizing and improving national road safety initiatives is their primary goal.
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