COMMONWEALTH OF MASSACHUSETTS
MASSACHUSETTS SENATE
STATE HOUSE, BOSTON 02133

Senator Joan B. Lovely
State Senator
2nd Essex District

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

March 31, 2023

Senate Passes Legislation Authorizing Chapter 90 Funding 

BOSTON – The Massachusetts State Senate on Thursday passed a bill that includes $350 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. 

“This legislation will maintain and improve our state’s infrastructure, ensure that residents have safe and reliable transportation options, and support sustainable, regionally equitable economic development in communities across the Commonwealth,” said Senate President Karen E. Spilka (D-Ashland). “I’d like to thank Senator Crighton for his work in crafting this legislation, Senator Kennedy for his help in advancing it, and all of my Senate colleagues for working collaboratively to ensure the transportation needs of our cities and towns are addressed in a regionally equitable manner.” 

“Proud to join my Massachusetts Senate colleagues to unanimously pass a Chapter 90 bill to support local infrastructure projects across the Commonwealth,” said Senator Joan B. Lovely (D-Salem). “Each year the legislature passes this important funding package to enable cities and towns to invest in and make necessary repairs to local roads and bridges. Thank you to Senate President Spilka and Chairs Crighton and Kennedy for your work to advance this vital legislation.” 

Communities within the Second Essex District are expected to receive the following apportionments: 

  • Beverly: $1,046,538 
  • Danvers: $877,025 
  • Peabody: $1,227,164 
  • Salem: $833,973 

“Our transportation system is the backbone of our Commonwealth, connecting us to our jobs, families, and communities,” said Senator Brendan P. Crighton (D-Lynn), Chair of the Senate Committee on Transportation. “This investment is not just an investment in infrastructure, but an investment in the future of our Commonwealth, enabling our cities and towns to make the necessary improvements to promote efficient and safe travel for all.” 

This legislation also authorizes $150 million in programs that will assist municipalities with 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; 
  • and new funding dedicated to additional transportation support based on road milage, which is particularly helpful for rural communities.  

A different version having previously been passed in the House of Representatives, the two chambers will now reconcile differences before sending the bill to the Governor’s desk. 

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