Two Marengo County police departments have been awarded a combined $50,000 by the State of Alabama.

Gov. Bob Riley awarded $25,000 each to the police departments of Myrtlewood and Thomaston. Myrtlewood will use its grant to purchase a new patrol vehicle. Thomaston will purchase police equipment with its grant.

“Police officers across Alabama must be prepared to risk their lives every day to protect and serve their communities,” Riley said. “I am pleased to help Myrtlewood and Thomaston purchase equipment that will enable officers to perform their duties more effectively.”

The Alabama Department of Economic and Community Affairs is administering the grants which Riley awarded from funds made available by the U.S. Justice Department.

Riley notified Myrtlewood Mayor Kevin McKinney and Thomaston Mayor Terry Counselman of the grants’ approval.