Gov. Baker Files for $200 Million in Transportation Funds for Cities and Towns

Saturday, February 13, 2016

GoLocalWorcester Business Team

Charlie Baker

The Baker-Polito Administration filed "An Act Financing Improvements to Municipal Roads and Bridges" on Friday. The act included $200 million for local transportation infrastructure improvements across the Commonwealth, also known as Chapter 90 funds.

The legislation includes a request to authorize funding for a small bridge program and a separate authorization request for the federal aid highway program.

“We are pleased to file $200 million this year to support local officials and are committed to maintaining the same funding level for three years to support long term planning and economic growth. Every city and town depends on access to these flexible transportation funds and these investments will ensure municipal improvements remain front and center," said Baker.

Chapter 90 funds reimburse cities and towns for costs incurred for eligible transportation projects. Cities and towns must submit receipts to the MassDOT Highway Division district in which they are located which verifies that the expenditures qualify for reimbursement under Chapter 90.

"Our partners at the local level understand best that building stronger communities starts with making the short and long-term improvements to guarantee a reliable transportation network. We look forward to the legislature’s thoughtful review and continued efforts to place our cities and towns at the forefront," said Lt. Governor Polito.

Legislation Breakdown

Part of the legislation includes a request to authorize $50 million for a five-year small bridge program. The funding will support about 1,300 bridges on municipal roads across Massachusetts that span lengths between 10 and 20 feet.

The program will target small bridge projects not eligible for financial aid.

Another part of the bill includes a $750 million authorization request for the federal aid highway program. The Commonwealth will be responsible for $135 million of that spending.

Supplemental Budget

The administration also filed a mid-year supplemental budget. The $169.5 million proposal addresses known deficiencies at some state agencies.

For more information on the Chapter 90 Program, click here.