Long Beach Police Receive $400K Traffic Safety Grant

The Long Beach Police Department received a $401,000 grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety to support traffic enforcement and educational programs aimed at reducing serious injuries and fatalities. The grant is expected to support programs and resources such as: — DUI checkpoints and patrols focused on stopping suspected impaired drivers; — High-visibility, distracted-driving enforcement operations targeting drivers in violation of the state’s hands-free cell phone law; — Enforcement operations focused on top driving violations that cause crashes such as speeding, failure to yield, stop sign and/or red-light running and improper turning or lane changes; — Community presentations on traffic safety issues such as distracted driving, impaired driving, speeding and bicycle/pedestrian safety; and — Officer training and/or recertification to detect and evaluate impairment levels in suspected impaired drivers. “We are grateful to receive this grant, which will strengthen our traffic enforcement efforts and improve road safety. Through a combination of education and enforcement efforts, our goal is to reduce dangerous driving behaviors, prevent crashes and make our roads safer for everyone,” Sgt. M. Valenzuela said in a statement. The grant program is expected to run through September 2027. Police said the grant was provided by the California Office of Traffic Safety through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. “Through focused traffic enforcement and education, we’re working toward a future where everyone will be safe on California roads. By encouraging people to prioritize safety in their daily choices, we are creating a strong road safety culture together,” OTS Director Stephanie Dougherty said.