MMA applauds action on historic funding for local roads, bridges, and culverts

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

CONTACT: Dave Koffman, MMA Legislative Director, [email protected]

BOSTON — The Massachusetts Municipal Association (MMA) applauds the action of the House and Senate in passing a transportation bond bill with $300 million for the Chapter 90 road and bridge program for the upcoming year. This action would increase base Chapter 90 funding by 50%.

The bill proposes to distribute funding based on two formulas, with $200 million apportioned based on the traditional Chapter 90 formula and $100 million based on road miles. According to calculations published by the Executive Office for Administration and Finance, the proposed funding delivery would ensure that 85% of communities would receive an increase of at least 45% in base Chapter 90 funding.

The bill also proposes authorizations for initiatives overseen by the Massachusetts Department of Transportation, including $200 million for a culvert and small bridge program, $500 million for MassDOT bridge and pavement asset management, and $185 million for congestion and safety initiatives.

“The MMA and local leaders across the state are deeply grateful that legislators appreciate the importance of this program to quality of life and economic development in our communities,” said MMA Executive Director Adam Chapdelaine. “Chapter 90 is a program that benefits all 351 cities and towns in the state, and a 50% increase in funding would have a substantial impact in all corners of the Commonwealth. The MMA would like to thank Speaker Mariano, Senate President Spilka, Chairs Michlewitz, Rodrigues, Finn, Kennedy, Arciero, and Crighton – and so many others, who brought us to this point.”

Following approval in both chambers, H. 4307 now goes to Gov. Maura Healey for her consideration. The funding from this bill would also join the $103.5 million of funding for local infrastructure from the recently enacted surplus supplemental budget from surtax revenues.

“We are thrilled to see this bill on the Governor’s desk,” Chapdelaine added, “and are grateful for the Healey-Driscoll Administration’s leadership in its proposal and partnership on this great bill.”