ICYMI: House Approves $200 Million for Local Infrastructure Needs

By David Linsky (Star Patcher)

NATICK, MA – Representative David P. Linsky (D-Natick) joined his colleagues in the House of Representatives to pass legislation that includes a $200 million bond authorization for Chapter 90 funding to help municipalities complete road, bridge and infrastructure improvement projects.

“Chapter 90 funds are essential to providing stability and spurring economic growth in Massachusetts,” House Speaker Robert A. DeLeo said. “That growth starts on the local level. The funding in this bill and the House’s focus on transportation reform are resulting in sustainable, lasting changes.”

“Chapter 90 is an important source of local aid,” saidRepresentative Brian S. Dempsey (D-Haverhill), Chair of the Joint Committee on Ways & Means.“The $200M in funding authorized by the House of Representatives will be delivered early in the construction season and allow many vital municipal road projects to move forward. Today’s vote demonstrates the House’s commitment to the cities and town’s we represent and ensures they have the needed resources for safe, high-quality roads.”

“The Chapter 90 appropriation will allow the Commonwealth’s cities and towns the means to address the important road and bridge improvements necessary to serve the unique needs of each municipality,” saidRepresentative William M. Straus (D- Mattapoisett), Chair of the Joint Committee on Transportation. “I am pleased to see it move forward.”

“One of our primary responsibilities as legislators is to ensure the safety of our infrastructure through the allocation of fiscal resources,” said Representative David P. Linsky. This funding will allow the towns in my district to go forward with critical road and bridge repairs.”

Chapter 90 funds are determined by a formula based on a city or town’s total population, miles of road, and population statistics. Under this allocation, the towns of the Fifth Middlesex District received funding at the following levels:

Millis: $275,184

Natick: $986,980

Sherborn: $255,381

This bill now moves to the Massachusetts State Senate for consideration.