Gov. Kathy Hochul announced Monday that $90 million in funding is now available to help local governments enhance road safety and reduce fatalities as part of New York’s broader “Safe System” approach to highway improvements.
The funding, administered by the New York State Department of Transportation, will support projects designed to prevent vehicles from straying from lanes and reduce the severity of crashes. State officials say about 40% of fatal crashes in New York involve vehicles departing from their lanes. It is part of a multi-year action plan released last year by the state’s transportation agency, which calls for a comprehensive strategy involving engineering upgrades, public education, and law enforcement coordination to prevent roadway departures and reduce fatalities.
State Transportation Commissioner Marie Therese Dominguez said the initiative aligns with Hochul’s focus on improving public safety.
The funding is available through the Federal Highway Administration’s Highway Safety Improvement Program and can be used for projects such as installing rumble strips, median barriers, enhanced road striping, and curve warning signs. An additional $90 million has been earmarked for similar improvements on state highways.
A portion of the funding—about $10 million—will support municipalities in developing Local Road Safety Plans, which analyze problem areas and identify necessary improvements.
Lawmakers and local government leaders praised the initiative, with Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer noting that investments in road safety programs “save lives and lower costs related to crashes.” Other state and local officials echoed the importance of funding for safety improvements on New York’s roads and highways.
The “Safe System” approach is part of Hochul’s ongoing efforts to reduce traffic fatalities statewide. The state has previously implemented measures such as traffic enforcement initiatives, infrastructure investments, and public awareness campaigns aimed at increasing road safety.
