Transportation Bill Earmarks Upgrades to Route 3A Sidewalk

Gov. Deval Patrick called the $1.5 billion transportation bond bill that includes funding for sidewalk improvements along Route 3A in East Chelmsford "what the state needs to strengthen its economy and "quality of life for the long term.”

Patrick signed the bill on Aug. 9.

“Our transportation infrastructure had suffered from years of neglect, so this administration started rebuilding roads, rails and bridges in every corner of our state and creating thousands of jobs," Patrick said after he enacted the bill, which enjoyed the strong support of the Legislature, passing the House by a vote of 150-2 on July 31, the last day of the session.

The bond bill ensures funding for many projects already under way and allots money for the planning of future improvements across the state. 

It also continues funding for the final year of 2008's five-year Accelerated Bridge Program, the largest statewide infrastructure investment program ever, according to the administration. The bridge program has reduced the number of structurally deficient bridges by almost 20 percent, the governor's office said.

In regard to Chelmsford, the bill allocates "no less than" $200,000 for sidewalk repairs along 3A north near the Lowell border, specifically including installation of a raised curb and sidewalk repaving.