In a groundbreaking move for roadway safety, the city of Fairlawn, located in Summit County, has been granted nearly $21 million in federal funds. This significant award makes Fairlawn the sole recipient of an implementation grant within Ohio under the federal government’s fiscal year 2025 initiative known as Safe Streets and Roads for All.
Recently updated data from the U.S. Department of Transportation reveals that Fairlawn will receive approximately $20.9 million through this competitive funding program. The primary goal of this initiative is to diminish traffic-related fatalities and severe injuries among pedestrians, cyclists, and motorists alike.
Across the nation, the U.S. Department of Transportation has allocated a staggering total of $982.2 million to 521 communities spanning 48 states, along with 18 tribal nations and Puerto Rico in this latest funding cycle.
Fairlawn’s grant is categorized as an implementation award, indicating that these funds will be directed toward tangible safety enhancements that align with an existing local safety plan. In contrast, other cities in Ohio that were awarded grants during the fiscal year 2025 received smaller amounts designated for planning and demonstration projects, according to federal records.
U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean P. Duffy highlighted that this funding will facilitate various projects aimed at enhancing intersection safety, upgrading sidewalks, constructing roundabouts, and improving emergency response systems. These efforts are part of a broader strategy to ensure safer streets for all users.
The grants provided through the Safe Streets and Roads for All program are awarded following a rigorous competitive review process conducted by the U.S. Department of Transportation, incorporating insights from multiple agencies, including the Federal Highway Administration, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, and the Federal Transit Administration.
Molly Walsh, who covers Lake and Geauga Counties for The Plain Dealer and Cleveland.com, contributed to this article. With experience in business reporting, criminal justice, and breaking news, she brings valuable insights to her coverage. Notably, her previous role included serving as a reporter for the Akron Beacon Journal.
This article was developed with the aid of AI tools and subsequently reviewed by the staff at Cleveland.com.
