Safe Streets and Roads for All (SS4A) is a U.S. Department of Transportation competitive grant program focused on preventing roadway deaths and serious injuries. It supports local and regional efforts to plan for safer streets and carry out safety improvements. For civil engineering firm Firm owners, the program can create opportunities to support public agencies with planning, analysis, design, and delivery services.
The official SS4A program page is the place to confirm current requirements and application details.
What it funds
SS4A supports both safety planning and projects that put safety strategies into practice. Planning work can include developing or updating a comprehensive safety action plan. Implementation work can include projects that address roadway safety risks, such as changes to street design or infrastructure.
Funding priorities, eligible activities, and application requirements are set out in the program's current notice of funding opportunity. Check the official program page before advising an agency on eligibility or shaping a scope.
Who applies
Public agencies apply for SS4A funding. Eligible applicant types can include local governments, Metropolitan Planning Organizations (MPOs), Tribes, and other public authorities. The Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act provides a basis for FHWA programs and activities, and the supplied source notes that many of those programs allow public entities to compete directly.
Consultants do not apply for SS4A grants on behalf of an agency unless the program rules expressly permit a particular form of support. The agency remains responsible for its application and grant obligations.
Award size and funding available
Check the official program page and the current notice of funding opportunity for those figures, funding categories, and any match requirements.
The official program page describes the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act as investing $350 billion in highway programs over 5 years. That figure covers highway programs broadly and should not be treated as the SS4A funding total.
Cycle and current status
The supplied source lists a FY26 SS4A notice of funding opportunity dated 3/27/2026, and FY25 SS4A awards dated 12/23/2025. Check the official program page for the current cycle status and schedule.
The official program page says the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act provides the basis for FHWA programs and activities through September 30, 2026. Confirm the current program authority and any updates on the official page.
How consultants win the design work
Agencies apply for the grant. Consultants are selected separately by the agency, generally through a qualifications-based selection (QBS) process when applicable. A firm may support planning, benefit-cost analysis, and grant writing where program and procurement rules allow. If the agency receives an award, it may also procure design and construction phase services.
Grant selection does not award a consulting contract. Agencies must follow applicable procurement requirements, including rules tied to federal funds. Firm owners should review the solicitation, selection criteria, contract terms, and agency procurement process before proposing services.
What owners should do now
- Identify public agency clients with roadway safety needs and ask whether they have a current safety action plan or are developing one.
- Review the official SS4A page and current notice for eligible activities, applicant requirements, deadlines, and award details.
- Prepare relevant qualifications in safety planning, benefit-cost analysis, roadway design, and construction phase services. Follow each agency's procurement instructions.
- Track the agency's grant timeline and anticipated consultant procurements. Confirm that any grant writing support is allowed before offering it.
Official program page: https://www.transportation.gov/grants/SS4A. Check it for current notices of funding opportunity before advising a client.
