LOS ANGELES — The Southern California Association of Governments received $6 million from the federal government to improve street safety and access leading up to major sporting events in the LA region, it was announced Thursday.

The U.S. Department of Transportation provided the funds to the Southern California Association of Governments, which will support its events and games pedestrian safety program. Specifically, money will aid a partnership between SCAG and the Los Angeles Department of Transportation to reconfigure streets and boost walking, biking and public transportation in high areas of travel.

"We are excited to receive this critical funding from U.S. DOT's Safe Streets 4 All Program to support important work," SCAG Executive Director Kome Ajise said in a statement.

"As one of the world's most popular tourism destinations, Southern California is expected to host more than 5 million additional visitors for the World Cup, Super Bowl and Olympics," he said.

SCAG's program is designed to provide a "safe, accessible experience" during these high-profile events, Ajise said.

According to the Connect SoCal 2024 Regional Transportation Plan/Sustainable Communities Strategy, 65% of fatalities and serious injuries occur on just 5.5% of the region's transportation network. Additional research shows that people walking or riding bikes account for nearly 34% of regional traffic deaths despite comprising only about 3% of all trips.

Lessons learned from this venture will also be used to make lasting improvements to street safety, and enhance other transportation initiatives and services.