An historic 7,485 pedestrians were killed while walking in the U.S. in 2021, according to data collected by the Governors Highway Safety Association. These deaths are both tragic and preventable: changes to roadway design and safety treatments, including accessibility improvements, are proven to reduce pedestrian deaths and serious injuries.
>>>Download the Guide – Polara SS4A 2023 Application Guide
For the more than 12 million people living with vision loss and over 30 million people with mobility loss, getting around can be difficult and dangerous. Although more cities than ever are upgrading their infrastructure with accessibility features like curb ramps, tactile warnings, and Accessible Pedestrian Signals, it can be difficult, especially for smaller communities, to secure funding.
Now in its second year, the Safe Streets and Roads for All (SS4A) grant program will award $1 billion this year to qualifying Vision Zero and Complete Streets initiatives, including accessibility improvements. This guide will walk you through the application process, and point toward other funding resources that can help you protect pedestrians in your community.
Safe Streets And Roads For All Grant Eligibility
- Metropolitan Planning Organizations (MPOs)
- Political subdivisions of a state, such as cities, towns, counties, special districts; transit districts, transit authorities, and public benefit corporations created under state law
- Federally recognized Tribal governments
- Multi-jurisdictional groups of the above entities
What’s Covered?
There are two types of grants. To be eligible for SS4A implementation grants, a qualifying comprehensive safety action plan must be in place.
- Action Plan grants cover the development or completion of comprehensive safety action plans
- Implementation grants cover the implementation of projects and strategies identified in an existing comprehensive safety action plan that address a roadway safety problem.
Create Your Action Plan
Below are listed a few safety improvement examples:
- Installing accessible pedestrian signals (APS) at signalized crosswalks
- Adding rectangular rapid-flashing beacons (RRFBs) and audible buttons to school and mid-block crossings
- Widening sidewalks and adding curb ramps
- Creating parking restrictions around crosswalks
- Improving night-time lighting
- Implementing road diets and safe speed limits
You can also see the safety initiatives that were funded in the first round (2022) here.
Online SS4A Resources
- Vision Zero Network – maximizing safety impact from SS4A grants
- Carmanah.com – Reducing traffic fatalities using the Safe Streets and Roads for All grant
- Applicant Toolkit for Competitive Funding Programs at USDOT – Helpful resources for navigating the grant application process
- Build America Bureau – the single point of contact and coordination for states, municipalities, and other project sponsors seeking federal transportation expertise
Download the Guide – Polara SS4A 2023 Application Guide
