(KAIR)--Jefferson County has been awarded more than $480,000 in federal funding aimed at improving roadway safety.

That word was delivered by the County's Planning and Zoning Director Stephan Metzger during the Jefferson County Commission's meeting of December 29.

According to the unofficial meeting minutes, Metzger explained to the County leaders that confirmation was received, in late December, from the U.S. Department of Transportation that Jefferson County will receive a total of $480,800, made available through the Safe Streets for All program.

The funding is guaranteed federal money and will support safety initiatives not only in Jefferson County, but also in the cities of Meriden, Oskaloosa, Winchester, and McLouth. Metzger, the minutes says, explained during the meeting that the City of Perry is exploring its own funding options, while Ozawkie chose not to participate at this time.

Metzger noted that the county’s out-of-pocket cost will be virtually nothing.

The Safe Streets for All program provides grants to regional, local, and Tribal governments to help prevent roadway fatalities and serious injuries by improving transportation safety.