The project will deploy AI-adaptive smart traffic signal technology and intelligent, sensor-based transportation infrastructure to improve emergency evacuation operations and optimize surge traffic…

Federal Grant Award Summary

The City of Galveston received a $2.0 million Project Grant award from the U.S. Department of Transportation's Immediate Office of the Secretary under the Strengthening Mobility and Revolutionizing Transportation (SMART) Grants Program (CFDA 20.941) on July 15, 2025. The award will support the deployment of artificial intelligence-adaptive smart traffic signal technology and intelligent, sensor-based transportation infrastructure throughout Galveston to enhance emergency evacuation operations and optimize surge traffic flow during severe weather events and visitor peak periods. The project extends through January 14, 2027, and represents a Stage One planning and demonstration initiative funded under the $500 million program established by the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act.

This SMART Grants award enables Galveston to leverage advanced smart city technologies—including coordinated automation systems, AI-driven analytics, and real-time sensor networks—to address critical transportation management challenges specific to a coastal municipality experiencing both weather-related emergencies and seasonal visitor surges. The implementation of these intelligent infrastructure systems will enhance municipal transportation efficiency, improve public safety during evacuation scenarios, and strengthen the city's capacity in data collection and technology deployment for future transportation initiatives.

The project will deploy AI-adaptive smart traffic signal technology and intelligent, sensor-based transportation infrastructure to improve emergency evacuation operations and optimize surge traffic flow across the city of galveston during severe weather and visitor events.