Who is a member?
Our members are the local governments of Massachusetts and their elected and appointed leadership.
The House today passed a transportation bond bill that would authorize $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 thanks the House for its important action today.”
The bill was heard by the Joint Committee on Bonding and Capital Expenditures on Monday, after which the committee quickly reported the bill out favorably.
The updated bill (H. 4307) now moves on to the Senate for its review. Following approval in both chambers and by the governor, a bond terms bill must be approved before funding can be made available to cities and towns.