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Mahoning Valley law enforcement agencies receive $818K in traffic safety funding

By Kelcey Norris Mahoning Matters

Updated December 29, 2023 11:15 AM

Over $23 million was distributed to law enforcement agencies to reduce traffic-related fatalities, according to the Ohio Traffic Safety Office. Ohio Department of Public Safety

Local law enforcement offices received money from the state to bolster their traffic safety programs.

Over $23 million was distributed statewide to law enforcement agencies to reduce traffic-related fatalities, according to the Ohio Traffic Safety Office.

“These grants align with Ohio’s mission to save lives and reduce injuries on our roads,” Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine said. “By supporting local programs that raise awareness, educate drivers and increase enforcement, we are working together to make Ohio’s roadways among the safest in the country.”

The Ohio Traffic Safety Office awarded 164 grants to 135 local agencies in 62 counties.

There were different types of grants given for specific programs, including countywide OVI task forces, awareness initiatives statewide to address traffic safety related priority areas and overall education.

The education programs focus on seat belt usage, impaired driving via alcohol or drugs, distracted driving and motorcycle safety, among other traffic safety issues.

“Last year more than half of Ohio’s fatal crashes were OVI-related, so impaired driving education, prevention, and enforcement campaigns are going to be more important than ever,” said Emily Davidson, OTSO director. “We must continue to keep making progress in saving lives on our roads, and prevent more families from experiencing the tragedy of losing a loved one to an impaired-driving crash.”