Oliveira and Senate Colleagues Authorize $375 Million for Local Transportation Infrastructure

Boston — On Thursday, Senator Jake Oliveira (Hampden, Hampshire & Worcester District) joined his colleagues in the Senate to unanimously approve a $375 million bond authorization for statewide transportation projects. The vital funding initiative underscores a strong commitment to supporting the state's Chapter 90 program and invests in critical areas such as roads, bridges, regional transit equipment and infrastructure, bicycle infrastructure, and electric vehicle infrastructure. 

Senator Oliveira was encouraged by the legislation’s commitment to Western Massachusetts. "These funds not only ensure the viability of the Commonwealth's transportation infrastructure but reflect the Senate's continued commitment to regional equity," said Senator Oliveira. "By prioritizing rural communities and allocating $25 million to our towns through the rural roads program, we are not only enhancing the safety and efficiency of our transportation systems in Western Mass but also supporting economic growth and improving the quality of life for all residents across Massachusetts."

An integral aspect of the funding is the allocation of $200 million for cities and towns in the Commonwealth, specifically earmarked for the maintenance and construction of local roads and bridges. In addition to the $200 million allocation, an additional $150 million will be distributed equally among six targeted programs focusing on specific transportation infrastructure needs, which includes the $25 million allocated to cities and towns through the rural roads program. 

Of the $375 million in total authorizations, the legislation would also allocate $25 million to each of the following programs that target specific infrastructure areas:  

• Municipal Pavement Program: This program focuses on improving municipally owned state-numbered routes, enhancing road quality and safety. 
• Municipal Small Bridge Program: This program provides financial support to cities and towns for small bridge replacement, preservation, and rehabilitation projects, ensuring the integrity of vital local bridges. 
• Complete Streets Funding Program: This program allocates funds to municipalities for streets that offer safe and accessible options for all travel modes, promoting walking, biking, transit, and vehicle use. 
• Municipal Bus Enhancement Program: This program supports the build-out of infrastructure related to mass transit by bus, improving public transportation options. 
• Mass Transit Access Grant Program: Grants for design and construction improvements to access commuter rail stations or other mass transit stations, including parking lots, drop-off and pick-up zones, bike storage infrastructure, and electric vehicle charging infrastructure. 
• Municipal/RTA EV Grant Program: Providing grants to Regional Transit Authorities and municipalities for the purchase of electric vehicles and related charging equipment, supporting the transition to sustainable transportation options.