Governor Bredesen Awards Highway Safety Grants for Haywood County

 

Tennessee officials announced September 7, 2007, that Haywood County has been awarded three highway safety grants for a total of $76,057.

 

The agencies to receive funding in Haywood County are the Haywood County Sheriff's Department as well as the Brownsville Police Department, which will be receiving two grants.

 

Brownsville Police Department                  

Multi-Violation/Crash Prevention Grant         $56,057

Brownsville Police Department                  

Network Coordinator                          $15,000

Haywood County Sheriff’s Department          

High Visibility Law Enforcement Campaign     $5,000

 

The grants are awarded through the Governor’s Highway Safety Office (GHSO) whose mission is to save lives and reduce injuries on Tennessee roadways through leadership, innovation, coordination, and program support in partnership with other public and private organizations.  The grants awarded will be used to promote this mission.

 

“These highway safety grants reflect a continued commitment to work with local and state agencies to make our roadways even safer than they are today,” said Bredesen. “I am proud that we are able to help fund important programs at the state and local level that help reduce the number of traffic crashes on Tennessee roadways.”

 

“These grants are an example of continuous support of local efforts to protect our community,” said Senator John Wilder. “Safety is important to our residents as well as motorists traveling through on our roadways.”

 

“Designing programs of partnership with law enforcement agencies cannot be implemented without adequate funding,” added Speaker Jimmy Naifeh. “We are pleased that the Brownsville Police Department and Haywood County Sheriff’s Department will be able to continue its efforts in making this community safe.”

 

Grant awards are issued to agencies that successfully applied for funding based on problem and statistical need.

 

“The funds made available through these grants will support the efforts of many local and state highway safety partners to reduce the number of people killed and injured in traffic crashes each year,” stated Commissioner Gerald Nicely, Tennessee Department of Transportation. “These grants will make a difference in the effectiveness of our highway safety partners.”

 

There are several elements that contribute to a sound and safe roadway system. Some of those aspects are an accurate traffic safety data collection and analysis system; well-trained and equipped law enforcement personnel; and effective emergency medical and trauma systems. A major part of roadway safety is educating motorists about laws and good driving behaviors.

 

“Grants awarded by the GHSO are provided in areas of need,” reported Kendell Poole, Director, GHSO. “Statistics show our problem areas and we strive to put the funding where it will be most effective. We are dedicated to saving lives across Tennessee and pledge to work with grantees statewide to accomplish our mission.”

 

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration provides the funding for GHSO grants.