POLSON, Mont. — The Polson Police Department will receive a $50,701 grant from the Montana Emergency Tourism Assistance Program to fund new tools to improve safety and traffic management.

The funding will allow the ministry to purchase two SMART 18-speed trailers and one SMART variable message sign.

“It’s simply a way for us to send messages to motorists as they pass through the city. Particularly for tourists if they are not used to driving through the region. The speed caravans will primarily be placed in our school zones to help slow down motorists in front of schools,” said Police Department Chief George Simpson.

Traffic management and speed monitoring tools will be used in school zones and high-traffic areas to provide real-time information.

Police will use the data to guide future law enforcement efforts and improve driver safety.

The initiative aims to improve road safety, especially during the tourist season.

The Polson Police Department sent the following:

The Polson Police Department (PPD) is pleased to announce the award of a $50,701 grant from the Montana Emergency Tourism Assistance Program. This funding will launch the Community Awareness Concerning Enforcement & Safety (CARES) program, aimed at improving traffic safety and public awareness in Polson, particularly during peak tourist season.

The grant will allow the PPD to acquire two 18-speed SMART trailers and a SMART variable message sign (VMS), essential tools for reducing speeding and managing traffic. These devices will be deployed in key areas such as school zones and high traffic locations to provide real-time speed information and provide crucial updates on road conditions, events and emergency alerts.

Using grant funds, the PPD can invest in advanced traffic management tools without diverting resources from essential operations, thereby ensuring financial accountability and maximizing taxpayer value.

The speed trailers and VMS will not only help reduce speeding, but also collect traffic data to guide future enforcement efforts. PPD’s proactive, data-driven approach is designed to make Polson’s roads safer for residents and visitors.

The Polson CARES program includes public outreach efforts to educate drivers on safe practices. Maintenance and outreach costs will be covered by the PPD’s annual budget, with ongoing community partnerships ensuring long-term sustainability beyond the grant period.

“This initiative marks a critical step in improving road safety and supports our mission to make Polson a safer place to live, work, learn and play.” – Police Chief George Simpson