Massachusetts Legislature Passes a Bill Authorizing $1.9 Billion in Transportation Funding

The Massachusetts Legislature passed a bill authorizing $200 million for Chapter 90 funding to help municipalities complete road, bridge and infrastructure improvement projects. The bill also facilitates the financing of $1.5 billion for highway projects and $200 million for rail projects at the Massachusetts Department of Transportation.

“Chapter 90 funds help keep the Commonwealth moving by providing direct assistance to our cities and towns for essential repairs and roadway projects,” said Senate President Karen E. Spilka (D-Ashland). “By doing so, we contribute to the economic vitality of our state and the quality of life for our residents.”

“Not only will these funds provide critical resources to cities and towns across the Commonwealth and fortify larger regional transportation projects, they will create jobs and spur economic growth,” said House Speaker Robert A. DeLeo (D-Winthrop). “These investments support our vibrant economy by improving our transportation infrastructure.”

“These critical funds will ensure that our transit needs are addressed all across the Commonwealth,” said House Ways and Means Chair Rep. Aaron Michlewitz (D-Boston).

“The state of our infrastructure has a direct effect on Massachusetts’ economic possibilities and quality of life, for both people and businesses,” said Senator Michael J Rodrigues (D-Westport), Chair of the Senate Committee on Ways and Means. “By supporting our cities’ and towns’ projects, these funds will have a positive impact on every person and industry in the Commonwealth.”

“The Commonwealth’s roads, bridges and arteries are our economy’s life blood,’ said Transportation Committee Chair Senator Joseph Boncore (D-Winthrop). These appropriations approved today will go a long way toward providing our municipalities with the financial resources they need to ensure our infrastructure is building toward state of good repair.”

“The towns and cities throughout the Commonwealth will again receive this timely assistance for care of their local roads,” said Transportation Committee Chair Representative William M. Straus (D- Mattapoisett). “Through good and bad economic times, the Legislature has consistently provided this important aid to the communities."

Having been passed by the House and Senate, the legislation now goes to Governor Baker for his signature.