Who is a member?
Our members are the local governments of Massachusetts and their elected and appointed leadership.
The House today passed a Chapter 90 bond bill for fiscal 2023 that would continue to fund the local road and bridge program at $200 million, while adding $150 million for other municipal infrastructure programs. The measure received a unanimous vote from lawmakers.
The additions include $30 million for the Municipal Small Bridge Program, $30 million for Complete Streets, and $40 million for design, construction, repair and improvements on non-federally aided roads and bridges, including state routes and municipal roads.
The bill also adds a total of $50 million to municipal grant programs to improve access to public transportation — $25 million to improve bus stops and stations, and $25 million for mass transit and commuter rail stations and parking lots, and related enhancements.
Base Chapter 90 funding has been held at $200 million since fiscal 2012. The MMA and local officials have been asking for a $100 million increase to help offset a substantial loss of purchasing power over the past 11 years. The inflation-adjusted value of the proposed $200 million allotment has dropped to $117 million since 2012 — a loss of $83 million (42.6%) in purchasing power. The MMA submitted written testimony that outlines the declining value of Chapter 90 funds.
During debate, legislative leaders said that they recognize how important Chapter 90 is to cities and towns, yet are cautious about increasing funding until a consensus is reached about updating the decades-old formula, which is based on road miles, population and employment. Communities with slower growth or declining population, but the same number of road miles, have voiced concerns that the current framework makes it harder to maintain their share of the 30,000 miles of local roads in Massachusetts.
In a pending fiscal 2022 supplemental budget bill, the House and Senate have each included a separate $100 million line item for a municipal winter road recovery assistance program. The winter road funds would be distributed to all cities and towns based on a formula, and could be used for the rehabilitation, reconstruction, resurfacing or preservation of roadways.
The House action today keeps the bond bill on track for a timely passage, and the next step is consideration in the Senate.
Written by John Ouellette, Publications & Digital Communications Manager, and Adrienne Núñez, Legislative Analyst