House Passes Municipal Road, Bridge Maintenance Bill

State Representatives Paul J. Donato (D-Medford, Malden) and Sean Garballey (D-Arlington, Medford) joined their colleagues in the Massachusetts House of Representatives in passing legislation to authorize $200 million for the maintenance and upkeep of municipal roads and bridges across the Commonwealth.

“It’s imperative that we take care of our roadways to keep drivers and passengers safe throughout the Commonwealth,” House Speaker Robert A. DeLeo said. “This bill will give our cities and towns the funding needed to properly maintain their roads and bridges for the safety of our residents.”

“I’m pleased that we were able to authorize the necessary money for cities and towns to start improving their roads and bridges by the deadline of April first,” said Representative William Straus, House Chairman of the Joint Committee on Transportation.

“This bill will give municipalities the resources needed to take care of their roads and bridges which will help to ensure the safety of residents throughout Massachusetts,” said Representative Brian Dempsey, Chairman of the House Committee on Ways and Means.

“Keeping our roads and bridges in good repair is a good investment for Massachusetts, saving us money in the long run and encouraging businesses and residents to locate here,” Representative Antonio F. D. Cabral, Chairman of the Committee on Bonding, State Assets and Capital Expenditures, said. “The tough budget discipline Governor Patrick and Speaker DeLeo have shown makes this level of investment possible.”

“The city of Medford can utilize these funds to do necessary maintenance of their roads and bridges,” said Representative Donato.

“This legislation is a great feat for our cities and towns to properly invest in the safety and well-being of the residents of the Commonwealth through the improvement of our public infrastructure,” said Representative Garballey.

The $200 million in road and bridge maintenance funds represent a 29% increase over the funding dispersed for the same purpose last year.

– Information from State Rep. Paul Donato