Innovative Funding Processes for Rural Road Safety
WEBINAR: May 7, 2026, 10:00AM - 11:00AM PT
The second in a new series of FHWA webinars, Innovative Funding Processes for Rural Road Safety presents strategies for using non-traditional funding to improve safety efficiently across all types of rural roads.
State, regional and local transportation agencies will present on innovative funding programs, alternative contracting methods, and flexibilities to distribute resources effectively and efficiently across state, tribal, and local-owned rural roads to maximize safety impact. Strategies will emphasize effective investments and program eligibilities, non-traditional funding sources, and systemic data-driven investments.
In 2023, 41% of roadway fatalities occurred in rural areas despite only 20% of the population living in rural America. To help address this, FHWA is launching its 2026 Rural Road Safety Webinar Series, which will feature presentations and panels on innovative and effective practices that save lives on America’s rural roads.
Transportation professionals working in state, regional, local, and tribal transportation agencies will learn how to implement proven and promising strategies, tools, and technologies that accelerate delivery of effective and innovative safety projects and programs to advance a Safe System for all users in rural areas.
Other Upcoming Sessions:
- Coordinating with Emergency Medical Services to Improve Data Driven Safety Analysis & Traffic Incidence Management in Rural Areas: Fall 2026
- Working to Coordinate Effective Road Safety Efforts in Rural Areas: Winter 2026
Rural Programs & Resources
FHWA supports rural communities with the construction, maintenance, and preservation of highways, bridges, and tunnels, while also providing funding technical to state, tribal, and local agencies to advance safe, efficient, and reliable transportation on all rural roads. Many of these rural resources can be found here.
