Melrose Legislators Announce Road Repair Funds for Melrose

State Senator Jason Lewis and State Representative Kate

Lipper-Garabedian are pleased to announce that the City of Melrose is receiving
$523,879 in Chapter 90 funds from the state to help fund local transportation
infrastructure improvements.

This funding is a result of the state legislature’s passage of An
Act financing improvements to municipal roads and bridges, which
authorized $200 million for repairs and improvements to municipal roads and
bridges through the state’s Chapter 90 program.

"I'm very pleased that the state legislature is providing
these badly needed funds to our local communities for transportation
improvements," said Senator Jason Lewis. "I know that this
money will certainly be put to good use in Melrose improving roads, sidewalks,
and other infrastructure."

“I am pleased to have secured $523,879 for Melrose along with Senator
Lewis,” said Representative Kate Lipper-Garabedian. “This important
funding will be used for preservation, infrastructure, and important municipal
improvement projects that improve the quality of life in our cities and towns.
I am proud to secure funding that will help our community grow and prosper.”

“I’m thankful that our delegation continues to advocate for these
critical infrastructure improvements, particularly with an eye toward an
inclusive, accessible, and sustainable future,” said Melrose Mayor Paul
Brodeur. “Road and sidewalk infrastructure are some of the most important
of all our public assets. The State’s Chapter 90 contributions are a vital part
of our annual road program, allowing us to complete important paving and
sidewalk projects and continue to provide safe roads and sidewalks for all.”

The bill also authorized an additional $150 million in grant-based
programs that will further assist municipalities with various
transportation-related projects. This includes $30 million for the municipal
small bridge repair program, $30 million for the Complete Streets grant
program, $25 million for bus-related projects, $25 million for increased access
to mass transit and commuter rail stations, and $40 million for pavement and
surface area improvements to non-federally aided roadways.

Chapter 90 funding is allocated using a formula that is based on
the weighted average of a community’s population, employment and total road
miles. The funds can be used for a variety of purposes, including road
resurfacing, sidewalks, street lighting, traffic control measures, and roadside
drainage. Municipalities can also use the money for the purchase, replacement
and long-term lease of road building machinery, equipment and tools.