The FY26 Downtown Public Safety Grant funds research-driven projects to reduce downtown crime and improve safety in Tennessee’s largest cities, administered by the Department of Finance and Administration.
Funder: Tennessee Department of Finance and Administration
Due Dates: Not specified (refer to program page for announcement/solicitation release)
Funding Amounts: $100 million total available statewide; award sizes and maximums vary by jurisdiction and eligibility.
Summary: Supports Tennessee local governments and eligible BIDs in reducing downtown crime and improving public safety through place-based strategies, infrastructure, and technology.
Key Information: Only select cities and qualifying BIDs in municipalities with 181,000+ population are eligible; strict reporting and compliance rules apply.
The FY26 Downtown Public Safety Grant (DPSG) is a major funding program from the Tennessee Department of Finance and Administration, designed to improve public safety, reduce crime, and revitalize downtown business districts in Tennessee's largest cities. Through direct grants, the program enables local governments and eligible Business Improvement Districts (BIDs) to implement comprehensive strategies, including crime intervention models, infrastructure redevelopment, technology upgrades, and partnerships with community organizations. All funded projects must align with the goal of creating safer, more economically vibrant downtown areas.