Schatz Announces $2.8 Million In Grants for Hawaii
WASHINGTON – Senator Brian Schatz announced $2.8 million in federal funding for Hawaii programs that will assist Hawaii’s infrastructure and help train the workforce.
“This $2.8 million in federal funding will help the state of Hawaii during a time that the state faces severe spending cuts due to sequestration,” said Senator Brian Schatz, member of the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science and Transportation. “It is critical that we continue to find ways to expand our workforce and ensure that we continue advancing transportation safety by combating drunk driving, improving information systems, and implementing safety improvements for all road users. As a member of the Commerce committee with jurisdiction over transportation issues, I will continue to work with the newly confirmed Transportation Secretary Anthony Foxx on ways to strengthen transportation and safety in Hawaii.”
The U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) is awarding the Hawaii Department of Transportation with the following grants:
- Ignition Interlock Grant for $1,104,028
DOT’s Ignition Interlock Grant program supports state efforts to prevent drivers from operating vehicles while intoxicated. The grants allow states to pay for and install ignition interlock systems on the vehicles of persons convicted of driving while intoxicated, which prevents drivers from turning their engines on while under the influence of alcohol. - State Traffic Safety Information Systems Grant for $295,744
DOT’s State Traffic Safety Information Systems Grants program administers awards to states that are committed to enhancing the timeliness and accuracy of their state safety information, which improves driver awareness and promotes traffic safety. The grants also encourage states to develop safety information systems that are compatible between states and can integrate other national data. - Occupant Protection Grant for $246,953
DOT’s Occupant Protection Grants are intended to encourage states to adopt and implement effective programs to reduce highway deaths and injuries resulting from individuals riding unrestrained or improperly restrained in motor vehicles. - Motorcyclist Safety for $34,286
DOT’s Motorcyclist Safety grants are awarded to states to help them develop and implement effective programs to reduce the number of crashes involving motorcyclists, such as motorcycle ride training courses. The grants enable states to increase motorcycle safety and reduce causalities on the road.
The U.S. Department of Labor is awarding the City and County of Honolulu’s Department of Community Service with $1.1 million for the YouthBuild Honolulu Program.
The YouthBuild program is a workforce and community development program that serves youth ages 16-24. The YouthBuild program targets at-risk populations and uses a dual program model combining academic instruction and occupational skills training leading to the completion of a high school diploma or GED. Participants receive an opportunity to gain industry-recognized credentials in construction trades while gaining hands-on experience in the construction industry.
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