MEMPHIS, Tenn. — The Tennessee Highway Safety Office (THSO) has announced $33.5 million in federal grant funds to support law enforcement agencies, prosecutors, and safety organizations statewide in efforts to curb traffic crashes and save lives.
The grants, funded by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), will support education, enforcement, advocate, and training programs across the state for the 2025-2026 federal fiscal year.
“These grant dollars represent our commitment to protecting lives in every corner of Tennessee,” said Tennessee Department of Safety and Homeland Security Commissioner Jeff Long. “Safety is our top priority, and these funds will support proven efforts that keep Tennesseans safe on our roads.”
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More than 415 grants were awarded statewide, including millions in funding to agencies across the Mid-South. Local departments receiving funds include:
- Shelby County: Memphis Police Department ($400,000), Shelby County Sheriff’s Office ($500,000), and Millington Police Department ($20,000) for traffic enforcement and impaired driving initiatives.
- Tipton County: Covington, Mason, Munford, Atoka, and the Tipton County Sheriff’s Office collectively awarded more than $115,000 for impaired driving enforcement and traffic safety services.
- Fayette County: Fayette County Sheriff’s Office, Oakland, Piperton, and Somerville police departments awarded $90,000 combined for high visibility and impaired driving enforcement.
- Lauderdale County: Lauderdale County agencies, including the DA’s office, awarded over $397,000 for DUI prosecution and traffic enforcement.
- Dyer County: Dyer County DA’s office awarded over $230,000 for DUI prosecution; Newbern Police Department received enforcement grant.
- Hardeman, Haywood, McNairy, and Crockett counties were awarded grants for impaired driving enforcement and pedestrian safety initiatives.
In total, Mid-South agencies received millions of dollars in grant support to address impaired driving, distracted driving, pedestrian safety, and other roadway hazards.
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THSO Director Buddy Lewis said the funding is a critical investment in local partnerships. “These funds will be used to increase traffic safety education, public awareness, advocacy, training, and enforcement initiatives to improve driver behavior and protect Tennessee roadways,” Lewis said…