SALEM, Ore. — The City of Salem has been awarded a $4 million federal grant to strengthen emergency response services, improve public safety infrastructure and enhance regional emergency coordination.
Oregon’s congressional delegation announced Friday, October 30, that Salem was selected to receive the funding through the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Safe Streets and Roads for All (SS4A) grant program. The bipartisan program provides federal funding to cities, counties, tribal governments and regional agencies for projects designed to improve transportation safety for pedestrians, bicyclists and motorists.
Salem officials say the new funding will build on previous federal investments and support several initiatives aimed at making the community safer while improving how emergency services respond to people in need.
City Manager Krishna Namburi said the grant recognizes Salem’s ongoing efforts to develop community-driven solutions through its Safe, Clean and Healthy Salem initiative.
The city plans to direct the $4 million investment toward three primary areas: expanding community-based emergency services, strengthening public safety infrastructure and modernizing regional emergency coordination.
One major focus will be expanding the city’s Rapid Engagement, Assessment and Community Health (REACH) program, which connects individuals experiencing crises with appropriate services and care.
Through community paramedicine, the program is designed to reduce repeat 911 calls by helping people access the medical and community resources they need. City officials say this approach can also help preserve traditional emergency response resources for critical incidents.
The grant will also support improvements to public safety infrastructure, including investments in emergency medical vehicles, equipment, technology, staffing and services. These improvements are intended to strengthen prehospital and ambulance services while improving emergency response capabilities and patient outcomes.
A third component will focus on improving regional emergency communications and coordination. Planned investments include better data collection, strategic planning, staff training and development of a Supplemental Safety Action Plan intended to identify additional opportunities to improve roadway safety.
Salem Fire Chief David Gerboth said the funding will also help strengthen partnerships with regional organizations, including Marion County, which plays an important role in supporting the city’s REACH program.
The city also hopes to expand collaboration with local and regional health care providers to improve services and better coordinate care for residents.
This latest award builds on Salem’s previous investment through the federal Safe Streets and Roads for All program. In 2023, the city received $2.8 million to develop a Safe Streets for All Action Plan and support a pilot project known as “20 is Plenty.”
The Salem City Council approved the 20 is Plenty pilot project in October 2026. The initiative is intended to improve roadway safety through lower speed limits in designated areas.
City officials say the additional $4 million will allow Salem to continue developing safety programs and emergency response partnerships while addressing community needs through coordinated public safety efforts.
