During a recent government meeting, officials discussed significant updates regarding transportation initiatives and safety improvements in the city. A key highlight was the announcement of a Safe Routes grant from the Regional Planning Commission, which aims to enhance pedestrian safety across several parishes, including the city. The commission identified the intersection of Thomas and Oak as one of the least safe areas in Tangipahoa Parish, alongside several other segments in Hammond that require urgent attention.

The meeting revealed that the city plans to engage more actively with the Regional Planning Commission, which serves as the transportation development arm for the metropolitan area. Officials noted that the commission is currently coordinating a Safe Routes Action Plan funded by federal grants, with a draft map expected to be available in November.

In addition to the Safe Routes initiative, the city is exploring opportunities for transportation studies through a Louisiana Main Street technical assistance grant. This grant could provide funding for examining connectivity within neighborhoods, a move that aligns with the city’s focus on improving transportation infrastructure.

Officials also discussed plans to improve eight major intersections in downtown Hammond, including those at Cherry to Magnolia along Thomas and Morris. The city aims to collaborate with engineering firms to develop plans for these improvements, which could potentially be funded through implementation grants from the Regional Planning Commission.

Furthermore, the Department of Transportation and Development (DOTD) has a state route assistance program designed to make intersections compliant with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). This program allows for funding requests without a competitive application process, which officials view as a promising opportunity for enhancing accessibility in the city.

Overall, the meeting underscored a proactive approach to addressing transportation safety and infrastructure, with multiple funding avenues being explored to support these initiatives.