Legislation provides $200M to support municipal road repairs
BOSTON – Senator Michael O. Moore (D-Millbury) announced that the Senate passed the so-called “Chapter 90” bond bill to fund local road and bridge repairs, and to continue the legislature’s ongoing commitment to invest in local communities. The bill will provide $200 million in Fiscal Year 2020 for municipal infrastructure improvements across the Commonwealth.
“As a former selectman, I know all too well how critical this funding is to support local infrastructure repairs,” said Senator Moore, who serves as Chair of the Senate Committee on Bonding, Capital Expenditures and State Assets which reviewed the bill. “The improvements made possible by this funding will strengthen transportation opportunities and help ensure that all members of the community have safe, accessible opportunities to move about.”
“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).
“This bond authorization is a major step toward placing our communities’ roads on a path toward good repair,” said Senator Joseph A. Boncore (D-Winthrop), Senate Chair of the Joint Committee on Transportation. “After a seemingly interminable winter, a severe toll has been taken on our roadways and with the construction season already underway, this funding is essential so that municipalities may begin work now.”
“This funding is crucial for communities across the state; construction season has begun and cities and towns need to address their current transportation needs and projects,” said Senate Minority Leader Bruce Tarr (R- Gloucester). “Maintaining the safety and repair of local roads and bridges is a priority for the Senate and it provides an economic boost to the Commonwealth.”
Chapter 90 funds are allocated using a longstanding formula based on community road miles, population and employment. The bill will now move to the House of Representatives for enactment before returning to the Senate for final approval and then sent to the Governor for their signature. To continue tracking the bill, H.69, visit the legislature’s website by clicking below.