The Tennessee Highway Safety Office (THSO), which operates under the Tennessee Department of Safety and Homeland Security, has revealed a significant allocation of $33.5 million in federal grant funding aimed at enhancing highway safety initiatives throughout the state. This financial support, sourced from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, is designated for use during the federal fiscal year spanning 2025 to 2026.
In total, over 415 grants have been distributed to a variety of recipients, including law enforcement agencies, non-profit organizations, and traffic safety collaborators across Tennessee. The funds will be utilized for a range of purposes, including traffic enforcement, educational programs, advocacy efforts, training sessions, and public awareness initiatives. Notably, approximately $3 million of this funding is earmarked for statewide media campaigns that focus on reducing traffic accidents and ultimately saving lives.
Commissioner Jeff Long highlighted that this investment underscores the state’s dedication to ensuring the safety of Tennesseans on the roads. Meanwhile, THSO Director Buddy Lewis pointed out the critical role that both local and state partnerships play in the ongoing mission to decrease traffic-related fatalities. Together, these efforts reflect a comprehensive approach to improving road safety across Tennessee.