Crown Point, Merrillville, Portage and Valparaiso were awarded grants under the Department of Transportation's Safe Streets and Roads for All (SS4A) program.
The SS4A Grant program aims to improve roadway safety. It supports communities in implementing infrastructure projects designed to reduce transportation-related fatalities and serious injuries.
Crown Point will receive $280,000; Merrillville will receive $280,000; Portage will receive $280,000; and Valparaiso will receive $200,000. Each town will use the funding to develop safety action plans aimed at eliminating roadway fatalities.
“When we invest in our transportation infrastructure to make it safer for pedestrians, drivers and commuters, we attract new economic activity, businesses and opportunities to our region,” U.S. Rep. Frank Mrvan said in a press release.
Officials from Crown Point, Merrillville, Portage and Valparaiso expressed gratitude to Mrvan for championing safer streets in their towns.
“The Safe Streets for All Grant Program is an incredible opportunity for us to tackle the dangers posed by vehicular traffic, ultimately saving lives and preventing injuries in the future,” Portage Mayor Austin Bonta said. “The city of Portage is thrilled to have been given access to this powerful tool to enhance the safety of walkers, cyclists and drivers making their way around our growing city.”
Greg Falkowski, Crown Point economic development director, said Crown Point is eager to develop a safety plan for the residents and visitors who travel the city’s roads.
Valparaiso Mayor Jon Costas emphasized the importance of transportation safety.
“Public safety is a top priority in Valparaiso and we see roadway safety as one more way to enhance the quality of life for our residents and visitors,” Costas said.
Merrillville Town Manager Michael Griffin said the funding would be instrumental in developing a plan to make Merrillville safer.
The SS4A Grant program was created under the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act. It was signed into law during the 117th Congress. Rep. Mrvan previously announced SS4A Grant awards for East Chicago, Gary, Hammond and Burns Harbor.
