Third round of SAFE grants approved

CONCORD, NH — Today, the Governor and Executive Council approved nearly $10 million in funding for more than 260 school safety projects throughout the state.  

“New Hampshire remains committed to providing as many resources as possible to communities across the state to improve security,” said Governor Chris Sununu. “Our community-first, hands-on collaboration between the state and schools is the right approach to maximize our efforts.”

Following a recommendation from the Public School Infrastructure Commission, the Governor and Executive Council voted Wednesday to allocate a combined total of $9,861,447.31 to enhance access control, emergency alerting and surveillance at numerous schools. The funds will be utilized for 267 security projects at 167 schools.

“New Hampshire remains steadfast in its dedication to keep our schools safe and continuously invest in school safety. This additional $9.9 million in school safety funding that was approved today will work to ensure that schools are supplied with new advancements to boost school safety and the protection of our children,” said Frank Edelblut, education commissioner. 

This is the third round of the Security Action for Education (SAFE) grants program. During previous rounds of SAFE grants, about $13.9 million was awarded to 341 schools throughout the state – bringing the new total to $23.8 million. Schools that did not receive SAFE grants in round one or round two were prioritized during this new, third round of applications.  

“The new approval of $9.9 million toward school safety projects shows New Hampshire’s commitment to students, staff and parents. These projects will not only increase safety, but also will help to provide peace of mind,” said Robert Buxton, Director of the Department of Safety’s Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Management. 

A waitlist remains in place for proposed school safety projects if additional funding becomes available.