(COLORADO SPRINGS) — The City of Colorado Springs got $2.3 million grant from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security to aid in support of and preparation for preventing acts of terrorism.

According to the City, the grant will be administered through the Pikes Peak Regional Office of Emergency Management and marks the first time the city has gotten these funds. The grant, called the Urban Area Security Initiative, is awarded to U.S. cities annually by the Department of Homeland Security based on threat, vulnerability, and consequence factors.

“As mayor, keeping our community safe is one of my top priorities. This grant is a powerful investment in that mission; enhancing our ability to prevent, prepare for, and respond to catastrophic events and terrorism threats,” said Colorado Springs Mayor Yemi Mobolade. “It also reflects the growing national significance of Colorado Springs and the Pikes Peak region. I’m grateful to our federal, state, and local partners for standing with us to build a stronger, more resilient city.”

The grant allows the City to address the unique planning, organization, equipment, training, and exercise needs of high-risk urban areas. According to the City, it helps in building an enhanced and sustainable capacity to prevent, protect against, prepare for, and respond to acts of terrorism.

“This grant strengthens our region’s ability to work collaboratively across jurisdictions and disciplines to prevent and respond to acts of terrorism,” said El Paso County Sheriff Joseph Roybal. “The safety of our community depends on seamless coordination between local, state, and federal partners. This funding ensures we have the training, equipment, and preparedness resources needed to protect the citizens of the Pikes Peak region, and those who visit our community.”