Office of Traffic Safety Awards $496,000 Grant to the Riverside Police Department for Traffic Enforcement

Published: 11/14/2025

Office of Traffic Safety Awards $496,000 Grant to the Riverside Police Department for Traffic Enforcement, Child Safety Seat Education, and "Ride to Live" Motorcycle Training Program

RIVERSIDE, CA - The Riverside Police Department announced today that it has been awarded three grants totaling $496,000 from the California Office of Traffic Safety (OTS). These grants will fund important programs focused on traffic enforcement, motorcycle safety training, and child passenger safety education through September 2026.

The department received $450,000 to strengthen its traffic enforcement and education efforts aimed at reducing dangerous driving behaviors and preventing crashes. These funds will support DUI checkpoints, distracted driving patrols, enforcement of speed and traffic signal violations, community safety presentations, and officer training programs.

"We are grateful for this funding, which will enhance our ability to keep Riverside's roads safe for all users," said Sergeant Daniel Macias. "Through a combination of enforcement and education, we aim to reduce serious injuries and fatalities."

In addition, $21,000 has been awarded to support the Ride to Live motorcycle safety program. This initiative offers free, hands-on rider training classes led by law enforcement officers to teach critical skills such as braking, turning, and safely entering traffic. These courses help riders avoid crashes and improve overall safety on the roads.

"The Ride to Live program empowers motorcyclists with the knowledge and skills they need to ride safely," Sergeant Macias said. "Education is key to preventing crashes and protecting everyone who shares the road."

Finally, the department received $25,000 to expand its Child Safety Seat Education Program. This funding will enable Riverside PD to provide child safety seat inspections, education classes, technician training, and distribution of free car seats to families in need.

"Proper use of child safety seats dramatically reduces the risk of injury or death," said Sergeant Macias. "This grant allows us to reach more families and ensure every child travels safely."

"Through these combined efforts, traffic enforcement, motorcycle safety education, and child passenger safety, we are building a stronger culture of safety in Riverside," added Sergeant Macias.

Funding for these programs was provided by grants from the California Office of Traffic Safety, through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.