Fort Myers Police Launch Pedestrian and Bicycle Safety Program With State Grant

The Fort Myers Police Department secured $27,374.99 from the state. The money will fund enforcement and education aimed at pedestrian and bicycle safety until May 8, 2026. City Council approved the funding on Nov. 3, 2025.

The Florida Department of Transportation and the Institute of Police Technology and Management provided the grant. It pays for the department's participation in the High Visibility Enforcement for Pedestrian and Bicycle Safety Program.

Officers complete a four-hour training course, preparing them to handle traffic violations that threaten walkers and cyclists. The program seeks to reduce crashes causing serious and fatal injuries. Enforcement targets speeding, impaired driving, and distracted driving.

The Institute of Police Technology and Management selected eight city locations for concentrated enforcement and education. Crash data and safety concerns determined these sites.

Florida has one of the nation's highest pedestrian fatality rates. Programs like this attempt to change that through increased police presence and public awareness.