Montgomery Mayor Touts Major Crime Drops, Federal Funding Wins

Reed highlights public safety progress, infrastructure investments, and downtown development in State of the City address.

Feb. 4, 2026 at 8:15am

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In his annual State of the City address, Montgomery Mayor Steven Reed detailed significant declines in violent and nonviolent crime over the past two years, as well as the city's success in securing around $50 million in federal grants for initiatives like electric buses, workforce training, and affordable housing programs.

Why it matters

Montgomery has long struggled with high crime rates, so these public safety improvements are an important milestone for the city. The federal funding will also help the city advance key infrastructure and community development priorities.

The details

According to Reed, Montgomery has seen a 78% drop in homicides, a 40% decline in nonfatal shootings, a 57% reduction in violent crime, and a 56% decrease in nonviolent Part I offenses over the past two years. The mayor attributed this progress to a focus on prevention, partnership, and accountability. In addition, the city secured around $50 million in federal grants in 2025 for initiatives like electric buses, clean-transit workforce training, and affordable housing programs.

  • Over the past two years, Montgomery has recorded these crime declines.
  • In 2025, the city secured around $50 million in federal grants.

The players

Steven Reed

The mayor of Montgomery, Alabama, who highlighted the city's progress in his annual State of the City address.

Montgomery Fire/Rescue

The city's fire department, which contained a wind-driven grass fire that destroyed three structures.

Montgomery Emergency Management Agency

The city agency that kept warming centers open during a recent freeze.

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What they’re saying

“The trend is moving in the right direction. We're building sustained momentum for a safer Montgomery—one powered by prevention, partnership and accountability.”

— Steven Reed, Mayor

“These national conversations are strategic. They connect Montgomery to decision-makers, strengthen relationships and help us compete for the resources our residents deserve.”

— Steven Reed, Mayor

“Affordability matters. It means teachers, first responders and young professionals can put down roots and build a future right here in Montgomery.”

— Steven Reed, Mayor

What’s next

Mayor Reed will deliver the 2026 State of the City address at 5 p.m. on February 10 at Vaughn Forest Church, where he will discuss the city's 'Momentum'.

The takeaway

Montgomery's significant declines in violent and nonviolent crime, coupled with its success in securing federal funding for key initiatives, represent important progress for a city that has long grappled with public safety challenges. These developments lay the groundwork for continued momentum in improving quality of life and economic opportunities for Montgomery residents.