The Biden administration awarded more than $49 million in grants on Thursday to 21 Florida communities to improve road safety and reduce traffic fatalities.
The Biden administration awarded over $49 million in grants to 21 Florida communities to improve road safety under the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law’s national initiative.
U.S. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg announced the funding Thursday under the Safe Streets and Roads for All (SS4A) program, aimed at reducing traffic fatalities and serious injuries. Launched in 2022, the SS4A program is distributing $1 billion nationwide, focusing on both urban and rural areas with high rates of traffic-related deaths and injuries. Florida is among the key states receiving funding to enhance pedestrian and cyclist safety, as well as overall road conditions.
Marion County, one of the largest recipients, was awarded $19 million for the Maricamp Road Multimodal Safety and Access Management Improvements Project. The funds will be used to redevelop a nine-mile segment of Maricamp Road, with a focus on safer facilities for cyclists and pedestrians.
Other municipalities receiving funds include Tallahassee, which will get $9.6 million for the Jake Gaither Community Pedestrian and Street Safety Project, targeting infrastructure improvements in an underserved area. The funding will improve access to five schools, community centers, parks, and public transit, enhancing safety for pedestrians and cyclists. Palm Bay will receive $2.4 million for the Emerson Drive Sidewalk and Lighting Improvement Project, which involves building a 6-foot-wide sidewalk along Emerson Drive near two schools. Deerfield Beach is set to receive $3.6 million for the NE 3rd Avenue Improvements Project.
“Today’s roadway safety grants will deliver funding directly to 354 communities and continue the important work we’re doing to reduce traffic fatalities to the only number that’s acceptable: zero,” said Buttigieg.
In addition to the larger projects, Florida will receive $15.1 million for 17 safety planning and demonstration projects designed to help local governments address road safety issues in their communities.