The Modesto Police Department has received two grants from the California Office of Traffic Safety, totaling more than $520,000, to support programs designed to reduce traffic crashes, injuries, and fatalities in the city. The grants, which run through September 2026, include $485,000 for a two-year Traffic Enforcement Program and $36,400 for a Bicycle and Pedestrian Safety Program.
According to the department, these funds will help enhance education, enforcement, and outreach efforts to improve safety for drivers, cyclists, and pedestrians in Modesto.
“We are grateful to receive these grants, which will strengthen our traffic enforcement efforts and improve road safety,” Sgt. Darien Wilson said in a statement. “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.”
The larger grant will be used for DUI checkpoints and patrols, operations targeting distracted driving, speeding, red-light violations, as well as officer training in impaired-driving enforcement. It will also support community education events and joint operations with neighboring law enforcement agencies. A key focus will be on repeat DUI offenders with outstanding warrants.
The $36,400 grant for bicycle and pedestrian safety aims to promote safe practices for those walking or biking and educate drivers about sharing the road. Planned activities include safety audits of high-risk streets, school presentations, youth bike training courses, helmet fittings for children who need them, community bike rides, and “Open Streets” events that encourage walking and cycling.
“By focusing on education, awareness and promoting safe practices, we aim to reduce crashes and prevent injuries,” Wilson said. “Ultimately, we’re working toward building more walkable and bike-friendly neighborhoods where everyone can travel safely and confidently.”
Stephanie Dougherty, Director of the Office of Traffic Safety, noted that these grants are part of a broader effort across California: “Through focused enforcement, education and partnerships, we’re working toward a future where everyone on California roads can travel safely,” Dougherty said.
Funding for both grants comes from the California Office of Traffic Safety in partnership with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
Recent data from the Modesto Police Department’s 2024 annual report highlights ongoing safety challenges. In 2024 officers investigated 2,489 collisions—an increase from 1,912 in 2023. Over 7,700 citations were issued last year alongside 616 DUI arrests; fatal collisions decreased slightly from 21 in 2023 to 20 in 2024. Pedestrian safety continues to be an issue: Modesto has been ranked among the most dangerous peer cities statewide for pedestrian crashes during nighttime hours due to factors such as low visibility.
The city’s traffic safety unit has faced resource constraints; it was previously reported that staffing dropped from 21 officers to just five—a reduction some critics say has contributed to rising crash rates.
With this new funding secured through September 2026, the Modesto Police Department plans expanded enforcement activities along with increased public outreach and educational initiatives intended to make local streets safer for all users.
