Deerfield Beach, Florida – The U.S. Department of Transportation has given Deerfield Beach a major financial boost in the name of a grant focused at improving road safety worth $3.6 million. Part of the national Safe Streets and Roads for All (SS4A) program, this funding places Deerfield Beach in front of others in proactive traffic and pedestrian safety initiatives. Standing out as the only beneficiary in South Florida, the city is among just 70 U.S. cities to obtain such financing in 2024.
The money will be used to turn temporary traffic calming devices into long-term fixes along NE 3rd Avenue, between NE 38th Street and NE 44th Street. This stretch, known for its high traffic volume, had previously benefited from a temporary installation funded by Broward MPO and AARP in 2021. Painted crosswalks and designated bike lanes meant to lower speed and improve safety were part of the install. The project has shown success in enhancing the safety of this crowded corridor from its start.
Projected to be $4.5 million total, the cost of creating these temporary fixes permanent is Deerfield Beach will provide the remaining $900,000 even though the government grant covers most of the costs. This expenditure shows the city’s will to implement thorough safety enhancements to safeguard its citizens and guests.
Established with an eye toward distributing over a billion dollars to towns throughout the United States, the SS4A program helped to facilitate this grant. Its aim is to drastically lower or eliminate catastrophic injuries and deaths linked to transportation. To encourage safer neighborhood designs, the initiative also supports planning and demonstration projects. Under this program, Deerfield Beach got $192,000 for a demonstration project on SW 3rd Avenue/Martin Luther King Jr. Avenue, therefore helping the city to plan future road and stormwater system improvements slated for 2025.
Adoption of the Vision Zero Master and Action Plans by Deerfield Beach has been crucial in ensuring these awards. Targeting all traffic-related deaths and severe injuries, Vision Zero is a strategic approach meant to boost safety, mobility, and equity by means of elimination. This strategy emphasizes the city’s will to provide a safer surroundings for all the users of its streets.
Further information on the Vision Zero projects and other safety precautions in Deerfield Beach is available on the official city website for individuals who would want more.
