Rep. Stanley, Legislature Approves Major Transportation and Infrastructure Package to Support Municipal Roads

(BOSTON—6/4/2026) The Massachusetts Legislature approved over $2.7 billion in bond funding to help municipalities make local road and bridge repairs, invest in public transit infrastructure, and support transit-oriented housing development statewide. 

The package includes $200 million in bonding to spur new transit-oriented housing construction with capital projects such as stormwater management, culverts, and bike and pedestrian infrastructure. 

Additionally, it authorizes $300 million to support departments of public works in local cities and towns as they fill potholes and strengthen bridges at a crucial time for many municipalities dealing with strained finances. 

“This legislation will spur long-term improvements to roadways, bridges, and transportation infrastructure,” said Representative Thomas. M. Stanley (D-Waltham). “These key investments support our local communities, foster economic development and improve our quality of life. I appreciate Speaker Mariano, Senate President Spilka, Chairman Michlewitz, Chairman Arciero, Chairman Finn and my colleagues in the Legislature for their efforts to develop this legislation and maintain our commitment to giving our communities critical resources for local transportation infrastructure.” 

The bond bill—H.5375, An Act financing long-term improvements to municipal roads and bridges—also contains $500 million in bonding to target and fast-track repairs to the roads that are in the worst condition, through MassDOT’s Lifecycle Asset Management Program.   

Support is included for all cities and towns through financing for the traditional Chapter 90 program, while a portion of the bonding would especially aid rural areas by distributing support solely based on communities’ road mileage. 

In addition to improving the condition of roadways and integrity of bridges across Massachusetts, the legislation supports commuter rail and public transit at the MBTA with $200 million for rail improvements, vehicle modernization, and procurement of new vehicles. 

It also boosts the Department of Conservation and Recreation, which is responsible for maintaining around 180 lane miles of roadway and more than 100 bridge structures, with $200 million for repairs and modernization. 

Having been passed by both chambers of the Legislature, the bill has been sent to Governor Maura Healey for her signature.  

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Statement of Support: 

Adam Chapdelaine, Executive Director & CEO of the Massachusetts Municipal Association (MMA) 

“Local leaders across the Commonwealth are deeply grateful to the Legislature for passing this vital transportation and infrastructure package. By delivering robust funding to repair winter-damaged roadways, modernize local bridges, and provide critical support for our municipal infrastructure, this legislation directly addresses the pressing needs of our 351 cities and towns. We especially want to thank Speaker Mariano, Senate President Spilka, and all of our legislative partners for their collaborative leadership and steadfast advocacy on behalf of our communities. We look forward to Governor Healey signing this bill into law so these crucial funds can be put to work immediately to support local roads and bridges.”