Savannah Secures $9.9 Million Grant for Vital Traffic Safety Enhancements

Savannah Celebrates Major Grant for Traffic Safety Improvements

On a sunny Thursday afternoon, the charming city of Savannah was buzzing with excitement as it marked a significant milestone in its efforts to enhance road safety. At the foot of the beautiful Bull Street library steps, a crowd gathered to hear some thrilling news about a recent federal grant award aimed at preventing traffic deaths, and they were not disappointed. The event drew some notable attention, including a visit from Senior White House Advisor Tom Perez, who came to speak about the importance of this funding.

Funding from Safe Streets for All Program

The city proudly announced that it received a whopping $9.9 million from the Safe Streets for All program, an initiative funded by the recently passed Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. This law is one of the key achievements of President Joe Biden’s administration, and as Perez put it, “We are in the throes of an infrastructure decade.” This funding will play a crucial role in improving safety on one of the busiest corridors in Savannah.

One specific area set for enhancement is the 37th Street corridor, which has been identified as one of the most hazardous spots in the city for both pedestrians and motorists. With a staggering 970 crashes recorded between 2018 and 2022, it’s clear that changes are desperately needed. This proactive initiative connects well with the city’s ongoing Vision Zero project, a bold plan geared toward eliminating all traffic-related deaths in Savannah.

Community Engagement and Strong Collaboration

During the event, a variety of local leaders took to the stage. Savannah Mayor Van Johnson, city manager Jay Melder, and Georgia Department of Transportation Board Chair Ann Purcell were among them, expressing gratitude for the federal support. Perez praised Savannah for its in-depth data usage in the grant application, emphasizing the community engagement and collaboration with local partners that set the city apart in a competitive grant process.

“It’s difficult to underestimate what a game changer this investment will be, both as a proof of concept and a mobility revolution,” said District 4 Alderman Nick Palumbo, a passionate advocate of the Vision Zero initiative. He underscored the importance of these upgrades in making the roads safer, stating that tackling the most dangerous intersections is a top priority.

Upgrades on the Horizon

So, what can residents expect from this generous grant? The plan involves a significant upgrade to 15 intersections along the 37th Street corridor, which will include modernized traffic signals, dedicated left turns, improved sidewalks, and new crosswalks. Additionally, bike lanes will be extended, promoting safer travel options for cyclists. These changes not only aim to reduce accidents but also to foster a more pedestrian-friendly environment.

Federal Assistance Is Key

Mayor Johnson highlighted how vital this federal assistance is for the city. He remarked, “The fact is city taxpayers cannot pay for this by themselves; we need that federal help.” It’s an encouraging sentiment that reflects a collective effort to secure a safer future for all residents of Savannah.

Looking Ahead

With the election season heating up and the country taking note of local initiatives, this grant place the city in the national spotlight, showcasing how federal investment can directly benefit local communities. Savannah is poised to make roads safer and set a precedent for others to follow, paving the way for healthier and more secure neighborhoods.

As the city gears up for these transformative changes, the community can look forward to seeing their streets evolve into safer passageways for everyone. The future is looking bright, and together, Savannah is taking major strides toward a safer tomorrow!