Jackson Township has been awarded $204,000 through the federal Safe Streets and Roads for All (SS4A) Grant Program, a U.S. Department of Transportation initiative aimed at reducing roadway fatalities and serious injuries. Township officials said the funding will support data-driven planning efforts to improve safety for drivers, pedestrians, cyclists, seniors, and individuals with disabilities.

The competitive grant application was spearheaded by Mayor Jennifer Kuhn, whose direct involvement and leadership were credited as key factors in securing the award. Township officials noted that the application process required extensive coordination, organization, and follow-through, prompting the mayor to form an internal team, establish monthly meetings, and ensure consistent progress throughout the process.

The SS4A program provides funding to local governments to develop comprehensive roadway safety action plans. Grant funds are typically used for crash data analysis, public outreach, identification of high-risk roadways and intersections, and the development of strategies to reduce traffic-related injuries and fatalities. Eligible applicants include townships, counties, metropolitan planning organizations, and tribal governments that meet federal requirements.

With the funding secured, Jackson Township will begin planning efforts that may include reviewing local crash trends, identifying problem areas on roadways, gathering public input, and creating a prioritized safety action plan. Officials said these steps will also position the Township to pursue future federal funding for roadway and traffic safety improvements.

Council President Mordechai Burnstein praised the effort, saying, “We are grateful to Mayor Jennifer Kuhn for her hard work in securing this grant. Her efforts will help Jackson Township take important steps toward safer roads for all residents.”

During the Township’s next grant coordination meeting, officials are expected to review next steps, including finalizing the award agreement and coordinating with the Federal Highway Administration to formally launch the project. Mayor Kuhn said she looks forward to moving ahead with the program and advancing roadway safety initiatives for the community.