The Massachusetts Senate has passed a nearly $1.4 billion transportation bond bill to fund infrastructure projects throughout the state.
State senators unanimously approved their version of the bond bill Tuesday afternoon.
A conference committee must now reconcile the differences between the Senate’s bill and the House of Representatives’ approved bill before the legislative session ends July 31.
The Senate’s bill authorizes the state to borrow $683 million and includes federal funding for transportation projects that total $1.39 billion.
The bill includes 5.1 million dollars for the reconstruction of Taylor Avenue in Plymouth as well as $2 million dollars for the construction of a new parking garage that would be owned and operated by the Plymouth PGDC.
“It was my top priority to include funding for a new parking garage in Plymouth in this bill and the improvements to Taylor Avenue will benefit the entire community,” Senate President Therese Murray said. “These projects are critical for the revitalization of Plymouth’s downtown and any improvements to the Town of Plymouth will help us prepare for the 400th anniversary celebration in 2020. It’s important that we continue to make investments to further support our transportation infrastructure and to ensure the health and safety of our residents and our local economy.”
Plymouth Town Manager Melissa Arrighi says any projects on the waterfront are critical ahead of the 400th commemoration.
“The Town is delighted to hear that both these important projects may be funded and we always appreciate any earmarks for Plymouth projects that our state delegation is able to pursue,” said Arrighi.
Sen. Thomas McGee, a Lynn Democrat and chair of the legislature’s Joint Transportation Committee, said the bill will be part of a larger discussion regarding future infrastructure improvements in Massachusetts. He also praised the Senate’s proposal for its ability to create more jobs in the state through construction projects.
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