Massachusetts Senate approves amendments enhancing New Bedford infrastructure and recreation

The Massachusetts Senate approved amendments to a transportation bond bill that provides an additional $10,850,000 to enhance public infrastructure and recreation in Greater New Bedford.

S2989, An Act relative to Massachusetts transportation resources and climate provides over $10 billion in state bonding authorizations to improve roadways, construct electric vehicle charging stations, implement rail improvements, enhance airports, and provide grants to improve municipal sidewalks, curbs, and streets.

Additional spending authorizations were secured for the following projects:

• $3,000,000 to enhance outdoor dining and entertainment in New Bedford
• $850,000 for emergency response along Southcoast Rail, led by the New Bedford Fire Department and fellow departments south of the Pilgrim Junction in Middleborough
• $1,500,000 to improve Sassaquin Pond water quality
• $1,000,000 to expand and maintain free parking access at Noah’s Place Playground
• $1,000,000 for roadway improvements along Bridge Street in Fairhaven
• $3,500,000 for the South Coast Bikeway design and construction costs

“Improving public infrastructure is an important priority for our local communities, and today’s action by the Senate will put the necessary spending authorizations in place,” said Senator Montigny. “I am particularly pleased to secure additional support for New Bedford and regional efforts impacting Southcoast Rail and the creation of an ambitious public trail extending across the entire region.”

S2989 will be reconciled with a similar House bill approved last week. The final legislation can then proceed to Governor Baker for his consideration.