NEW: WRTA Scores $11.1 Million in Additional Funding

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Monday, January 14, 2013

GoLocalWorcester News Team

Worcester's public transportation system received a shot in the arm on Monday when MassDOT Secretary and CEO Richard A. Davey announced $11.1 million in additional funding for the Worcester Regional Transit Authority (WRTA) for fiscal year 2014.

The reconstruction of Quinsigamond Avenue from Brosnihan Square to Southbridge Street will also be funded under the statewide transportation plans.

“We have parts of this Commonwealth whose opportunities are constrained by substandard service and lack of access. Our plan outlines increased investments in the condition and the safety of our roadways and our Regional Transit Authorities to unlock opportunities across the board," said Governor Deval Patrick. "Improving our transportation system is key to meeting our economic potential - for Central Massachusetts and every region of the Commonwealth."

All told, the newly-unveiled transportation plan will pump an additional $5.2 billion into the Bay State's infrastructure over the next decade for road and highway repairs, $3.8 billion into existing transit services and $275 million for Registry of Motor Vehicles and airport maintenance.

The MBTA, which has projected a budget deficit for the coming fiscal year, will receive an additional $166 million for FY2014, enough extra cash to close the projected gap.

“Transportation is the enabling network of our economy, creating and supporting jobs in all regions of the Commonwealth,” said Lieutenant Governor Tim Murray. “The MassDOT Board has outlined how far we've come and how far we have to go to ensure a safe, reliable and regionally equitable transportation network. Now we all need to work together to make this vision a reality.”