The Justice Department announced the launch of the Model Cities Initiative on June 3, directing nearly $300 million in federal funding to select cities to transform public safety. Through this program, two to four cities will be chosen to receive awards supporting comprehensive strategies aimed at reducing crime, restoring law and order, and enhancing community safety. Proposals from eligible 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.”
Funding under the initiative may be used for hiring personnel involved in violent crime reduction efforts; purchasing or leasing equipment such as real-time crime centers, forensic tools, body-worn cameras, license plate readers, artificial intelligence systems, unmanned aircraft systems and related technology; training programs for intelligence-led policing; facility costs tied directly to program operations; mental health and substance use services linked to public safety outcomes; reentry support programs aimed at reducing recidivism; victim services including emergency assistance and legal support; and youth crime prevention programs addressing risk factors for juvenile delinquency.
Applicants must be local government entities serving populations of at least 100,000 residents. The application process requires a whole-of-city approach involving city leaders such as mayors, sheriffs, county prosecutors and others collaborating on a single proposal that outlines how funds would strategically improve law enforcement engagement as well as victim services and preventive initiatives throughout their city.
Additional information about the award process can be found at www.justice.gov/grants. The competition is structured as a multi-phase process with initial award decisions expected in late 2026. Questions regarding applications can be directed via email.
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 in over 50 countries. It focuses on upholding the rule of law while ensuring national safety and safeguarding civil rights under Attorney General Merrick Garland’s leadership since March 11, 2021. Garland has overseen significant prosecutions during his tenure, including cases such as the Oklahoma City bombing case, according to the official website.