The Justice Department announced on June 3 the launch of the Model Cities Initiative, which will provide nearly $300 million in federal funding to support public safety efforts in selected American cities. The initiative aims to select two to four cities that will receive awards for implementing comprehensive strategies designed to reduce crime, restore law and order, and enhance public safety. Proposals from qualifying cities are due by September 1.
“This administration is leveraging every authority to ensure the safety of all Americans,” said Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche. “The Model Cities Initiative will supercharge our law enforcement partners and restore the rule of law to America’s neighborhoods, towns, and cities. Our message is clear: We will help those who help us Make America Safe Again.”
U.S. Attorney Timothy Courchaine said, “The Model Cities Initiative presents an exceptional opportunity to enhance and modernize public safety infrastructures and reduce rates of violent crime. Law enforcement in Arizona has a long history of working together to protect our communities. I encourage cities in Arizona to apply for the grant funding, and I look forward to our continued cooperation.”
Eligible applicants include local government entities serving populations of at least 100,000 people. The initiative supports a range of activities such as hiring personnel involved in violent crime reduction efforts; purchasing or leasing equipment like real-time crime centers or forensic tools; training programs; facility costs related directly to program operations; mental health and substance use services tied to public safety outcomes; reentry programs aimed at reducing recidivism; victim services including emergency assistance and shelter; as well as youth crime prevention initiatives.
Cities must apply using a whole-of-city approach that involves collaboration among city leaders such as mayors, sheriffs, county prosecutors, and others who submit one application outlining how funds would be used strategically across their community.
Additional information about the award process can be found on www.justice.gov/grants, with initial award decisions anticipated later in 2026. For questions regarding applications or grants administration, contact details have been provided by the department.
The Justice Department serves as the principal federal agency for law enforcement with more than 115,000 employees operating across the United States and internationally—including over 50 countries—and focuses on upholding the rule of law while safeguarding national security and civil rights, according to its official website.