Dearborn Gets $24.8M From Feds To Design Safer Roads

DEARBORN, MI — Dearborn officials announced Thursday the city secured $24.8 million in federal grant awards to improve safety on its roads.

The grants were awarded to the city through the U.S. Department of Transportation's (U.S. DOT) Safe Streets and Roads for All (SS4A) grant program.

The funding will be used to increase safety for both drivers and pedestrians along Warren Avenue, which is one of the city’s main residential and business corridors, officials said.

The project aims to reduce speeds and mitigate weaving traffic on the roadway, officials said.

Crews will also build new pedestrian walkways and biking paths along the roadway, and prepare for future green infrastructure projects, officials said.

"Warren Avenue is a cornerstone of our city. For too long, the area has endured serious traffic safety challenges. These dollars will go a long way in helping us reimagine traffic and pedestrian safety along the corridor and in doing so, improving its walkability and access to local businesses," Dearborn Mayor Abdullah H. Hammoud said.

Congresswoman Rashida Tlaib (D-Dearborn) and Nicole Hefty, the City’s Philanthropy and Grants Director, helped secure the grants.

"The safety and protection of our residents is critical and I welcome the recent announcement from the U.S. Department of Transportation. The $24.8 million in funding to the City of Dearborn for pedestrian and motor safety for our families will be transformative. I know too well why this funding is so needed. Last year, my uncle, Adnan Elabed, was tragically killed by a motorist. I am looking forward to working together to keep our families safe," Tlaib said.