SPOKANE, Wash. — The number of people killed on Washington roads is reaching levels the state has not seen in decades.
But a new federal initiative aims to make Washington roads safer.
In just Washington alone, 745 people were killed last year.
That is the highest number of traffic deaths since 1990.
Washington is set to receive more than $9 million dollars in grant money as part of a new federal initiative to reduce roadway fatalities. The money will be distributed to counties, regional councils and public works departments across the state.
Several agencies in eastern Washington will receive money.
In early February, the U.S. Department of Transportation also announced the "National Roadway Safety Strategy Call to Action" campaign.
The goal is to reduce injuries and deaths on roadways by following the "Safe System Approach". The campaign focuses on safer vehicles, speeds, roads and post-crash care.
State lawmakers are considering several traffic safety measures this year. One bill proposes lowering the state's legal blood alcohol limit.
Another would prohibit right turns on red in certain areas.
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