COLUMBUS, Ohio — Ohio Governor Mike DeWine announced that the Ohio Traffic Safety Office (OTSO) has awarded more than $23 million in federal grants to support traffic safety initiatives across the state for Federal Fiscal Year 2026, with Pickaway County agencies among the recipients.
The funding, provided through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), is aimed at reducing traffic-related deaths and serious injuries by addressing major risk factors such as impaired driving, speeding, distracted driving, seat belt usage, youthful driving, and motorcycle safety.
In total, 195 grants were awarded statewide, including 166 grants to 150 local agencies in 68 counties and 29 grants supporting statewide initiatives.
“From high-visibility enforcement to traffic safety education, this funding gives our local partners the tools they need to address the risks on our roads,” Governor DeWine said. “We are proud to support work that helps more Ohioans get home safely every day.”
Pickaway County Funding Highlights
Local agencies in Pickaway County received funding to strengthen enforcement and education efforts, including:
- Pickaway County Sheriff’s Office — Pickaway Impaired Driving/Selective Traffic Enforcement Program: $24,032.96
- Pickaway County Public Health — Pickaway Safe Communities Program: $38,500.00
These grants will support targeted enforcement efforts, public education campaigns, and community-based initiatives designed to reduce impaired driving and improve overall roadway safety in the county.
How the Funding Will Be Used
Across Ohio, OTSO grants will support a wide range of programs, including:
- Statewide education and enforcement initiatives
- Impaired driving and selective traffic enforcement
- Countywide OVI task forces
- Safe Communities coalitions
- Summer holiday enforcement
- Dedicated traffic enforcement pilot programs
“These grants are a strategic investment in the safety of everyone who uses Ohio’s roadways,” said OTSO Director Emily Davidson. “Our goal is to empower communities to take action against the leading causes of traffic crashes and save lives.”
The grant cycle was open to state agencies, nonprofits, colleges, universities, hospitals, and local governments in counties with high rates of fatal crashes.
A full list of grant recipients is available through the Ohio Traffic Safety Office.
