Dykema Votes to Increase Chap. 90 Funding

On Thursday, Rep. Carolyn Dykema, 8th Middlesex District, joined the House in authorizing $200 million in Chapter 90 funding, passing legislation before April 1.

Chapter 90 funding is money used for local road and bridge repairs, and other infrastructure concerns for municipalities.

The legislation will follow the release of $100 million in Chapter 90 funds by Gov. Charlie Baker.

“Chapter 90 funding is a critical tool in increasing local aid and investing in our municipalities through infrastructure improvements,” said Dykema in a press release. “Particularly after such a tough winter, this increased funding will allow for needed construction projects, ensuring the safety of our roadways and citizens, as well as bolstering economic growth in our communities.”

The Chapter 90 formula considers miles of road, population and employment statistics to arrive at a total. Under this allocation level, the 8th Middlesex District would receive $2,384,822.

These funds may be used for roadway projects, such as resurfacing, drainage, sidewalks, traffic control and lighting, or road building machinery, equipment and tools, said the release.

Yesterday, the House also passed legislation to reduce the budget shortfall, voting to create an early retirement incentive program (ERIP) for Group 1 employees in the Office of Governor and Executive Branch. The program is anticipated to save the Commonwealth $172.9 million, said the release.