The Massachusetts Legislature has passed a bill authorizing $12.7 billion in capital spending to fund improvements to the state’s transportation system.
The bill contains $1 million for the design and construction of the Bruce Freeman Rail Trail bridge over state highway route 2 in the towns of Acton and Concord.
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“This isn’t a done deal yet; these projects have reached an important point, but the job of making them happen isn’t over,” said area State Sen. Mike Barrett. “A new governor must direct money to the specified improvements and the treasurer must sell bonds to pay for them. We’re not there yet, but we’re well on our way.” Barrett also directed praise at Rep. Cory Atkins (D-Concord) for helping to pass the legislation in the House.
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The bill also includes a one-year $300 million authorization for the so-called Chapter 90 program. The program funds local projects such as fixing bridges and roads. Cities and towns will now be notified of their Chapter 90 appropriation each year before March 1st.
Bicyclists and pedestrians see support through the authorization of $50 million for the Complete Streets Program, which takes a wide angle look at how to best integrate biking and walking paths with roadways. The bond bill also creates a grant program for municipalities to promote all kinds of transportation -- walking, cycling, public transportation, automobiles and freight.
The final bill came out of a conference committee agreement, before receiving final approval from the House and Senate. It now goes to the governor’s desk to be signed.
