Texas awards major public safety funding to prepare cities for FIFA World Cup events and large crowds
Dallas, Texas – Texas is ramping up preparations for one of the world’s largest sporting events, with major funding now being directed toward safety and security efforts as the FIFA World Cup approaches.
Governor Greg Abbott announced that the Governor’s Public Safety Office has awarded $116 million in grants to the City of Houston and the North Central Texas Council of Governments. The funding is aimed at strengthening public safety operations, including adding personnel, improving equipment, and supporting other critical measures tied to the upcoming tournament.
“The FIFA World Cup coming to Texas gives our state a premier opportunity to showcase all it has to offer,” said Governor Abbott. “These public safety grants will help ensure that travelers visiting and traveling throughout Texas can enjoy our great state safely, will bolster Texas’ efforts to combat crime, and help prevent potential acts of violence. I thank our partners in the Trump Administration for helping prioritize the safety of our fellow Americans.”
Major investment in safety and security measures
The funding comes through the FIFA World Cup Grant Program, which was created under the One Big Beautiful Bill Act. This program provides a total of $625 million to host cities across the country, distributed through state-designated agencies. The goal is to support large-scale security operations needed to protect players, staff, fans, and infrastructure while also guarding against possible threats.
Texas cities are expected to play a major role in hosting matches and related events, making security planning a top priority. The grants will help local agencies prepare for the increased demand on law enforcement and emergency services.
Dallas has already received more than $51.5 million in federal funding for World Cup-related safety efforts. Of that total, more than $22 million is focused specifically on ensuring the city is fully prepared to handle security at the highest level during the event.
Dallas police expand capabilities with new funding
In addition to the broader funding, the Dallas Police Department has secured more than $10 million through a separate grant dedicated to drone mitigation technology. This funding is designed to help officers detect and respond to potential threats from unmanned aerial systems, which have become an increasing concern at large public gatherings.
The investment allows the department to take a more proactive approach, strengthening its ability to protect venues and crowds during the tournament.
Further funding has also been directed toward equipment upgrades that will support operations on the ground. Nearly $880,000 will be used to expand camera systems, improving monitoring and situational awareness. Almost $258,000 has been set aside for portable anti-ramming barricades, which are designed to block unauthorized vehicles and protect crowded areas.
Additional resources include $67,107 for two Polaris Ranger utility vehicles, which can assist with quick movement and response in busy or restricted areas. Another $72,000 will go toward leased vehicles to support the scale and logistics of the event.
Focus on safety ahead of global event
With the FIFA World Cup expected to draw large crowds from across the country and around the world, officials say these investments are essential to ensuring a safe and smooth experience. The combination of federal and state funding is aimed at strengthening both prevention and response capabilities.
From advanced technology to on-the-ground resources, the efforts reflect a broad strategy to address potential risks while supporting a major international event.
As planning continues, officials say the focus remains on readiness, coordination, and ensuring that both residents and visitors can enjoy the event in a secure environment.
