COMMONWEALTH OF MASSACHUSETTS
MASSACHUSETTS SENATE
STATE HOUSE, BOSTON 02133

Senator Joan B. Lovely
State Senator
2nd Essex District

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

July 28, 2023

Legislature Passes Bill Authorizing Chapter 90 Funding

Makes investments in roads, bridges, public transportation, and regional transit authorities

BOSTON – The Massachusetts Legislature on Thursday passed a bill that includes $375 million in bond authorizations for transportation needs across the state, including $200 million for the state’s Chapter 90 program, which provides municipalities with a reliable funding source for transportation-related improvements, including road and bridge repairs.

“Ensuring that people in every region of Massachusetts have safe and dependable transportation options is fundamental to creating a competitive and equitable Commonwealth,” said Senate President Karen E. Spilka (D-Ashland). “This funding invests in our infrastructure and transit systems everywhere, allocating much-needed funds to local roads and bridges, regional transit, EV infrastructure, and parts of the MBTA. I want to thank Senator Crighton for making this a priority, my Senate colleagues for their support, and Speaker Mariano and the House for agreeing on these critical investments in our infrastructure.”

“Our communities rely on Chapter 90 funding to ensure that our local roads are in a state of good repair,” said Senator Joan B. Lovely (D-Salem). “I am pleased to join my colleagues to approve this program that will improve commutes and enhance public safety for those who live and work in the Second Essex District.”

This legislation also authorizes $175 million in programs that will support various transportation-related projects. This includes $25 million for each of the following:

  • the municipal small bridge program;
  • the complete streets program;
  • a bus transit infrastructure program;
  • grants to increase access to mass transit and commuter rail stations;
  • grants for municipalities and regional transit authorities to purchase electric vehicles and the infrastructure needed to support them;
  • funding for pavement and surface improvements on state and municipal roadways; and
  • new funding dedicated to additional transportation support based on road mileage, which is particularly helpful for rural communities.

“This Chapter 90 bill secures historical levels of funding for our municipal roads, bridges, and sidewalks,” said Senator Brendan P. Crighton (D-Lynn), Senate Chair of the Joint Committee on Transportation. “In addition to our annual authorization, we have added additional funding for various transportation programs, from bridge repair to improving access to mass transit. No matter how you get around, this funding will benefit transportation systems in every region of the Commonwealth.”

The bill having passed both the Senate and the House of Representatives, it will now be sent to the Governor for her consideration.

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