Maryland awards more than $13.3M in federal highway safety grants

The Maryland Department of Transportation Motor Vehicle Administration recently awarded 87 agencies, organizations and programs more than $13.3 million in federal highway safety grants.

The administration’s Highway Safety Office will distribute funds on Oct. 1.

Funding was allocated based on crash data for each county or organization. It supports initiatives that increase the efficiency and capability of Maryland’s traffic data systems; promote the correct use of child passenger safety seats; increase safety for pedestrians, motorcyclists and bicyclists; prevent impaired, aggressive and distracted driving; increase the use of seat belts in all seats; support police training for highway safety and traffic enforcement; and fund overtime enforcement of Maryland’s traffic laws.

“Ensuring a safe and equitable roadway system in Maryland is crucial for protecting every individual who travels on our roads,” Paul J. Wiedefeld, Maryland Department of Transportation secretary, said. “In 2023, we experienced a significant rise in fatalities, including 173 vulnerable road users who were killed. By distributing these grants for education and awareness initiatives, we are focusing on preventive measures to reduce these tragic incidents before they occur.”

Last year, 621 people were killed on Maryland roadways, an increase from 2022. Fatalities included 15 bicyclists and 158 pedestrians.

Funding is for federal fiscal year 2025.

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