State Environmental Bill Includes $3 Million For Burlington

From MA House: Senator Cindy Friedman (D-Arlington) and Representative Ken Gordon (D-Bedford) recently lauded the passage of the final version of the Environmental Bond Bill, which authorizes the issuance of more than $2 billion in bonds to implement climate change adaptation programs and to improve existing climate resilient infrastructure throughout the state.

Massachusetts has continually demonstrated leadership in the fight against global climate change, and the investments authorized in this legislation ensure that cities and towns across the Commonwealth are protected and that public spaces and infrastructure are improved and maintained for the public good.

The bill includes local earmarks to benefit the Town of Burlington, including $3 million for the design, planning and preconstruction of a new water transmission main connecting the Massachusetts Water Resources Authority’s (MWRA) Arlington transmission main line with the Town of Burlington.

“I’m pleased that this legislation includes critical funding to connect Burlington’s water supply with Arlington, especially during a time when our residents are experiencing a water ban,” said Senator Friedman. “This funding will increase access to water supply in town and make necessary infrastructure improvements to enhance the quality of life for our residents while protecting our environment.”

“I am happy that the legislature has shown its commitment to Burlington through this authorization. I look forward to working with the administration on this necessary infrastructure improvement,” said Representative Gordon.

In addition, the legislation ensures that climate change prevention programs are sufficiently funded and authorizes capitalization of the Global Warming Solutions Trust Fund, which will be used to fund costs associated with implementation of the Global Warming Solutions Act, the Commonwealth’s Clean Energy and Climate Plan, and state and local strategies for climate change adaptation.

Additionally, the bill requires the Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs and the Executive Office of Public Safety and Security to: (i) strengthen resilience and better prepare for the impacts of climate change; (ii) publish, every five years, an integrated state climate adaptation and hazard mitigation plan; (iii) establish frameworks for state agency and municipal vulnerability assessments that will be incorporated into the state plan; and (iv) implement the state plan and incorporate information learned from implementing the state plan in plan updates.

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