Massachusetts Legislature approves road and bridge funding for cities and towns

Annual Chapter 90 legislation delivers funding for paving roads, easing traffic, and culvert and bridge improvements

On July 31, 2025, The Massachusetts Legislature enacted and laid before the Governor for her signature a bill to distribute $1.2 billion among cities and towns to maintain and repair roads and bridges across the Commonwealth. The funding, which is derived from bonding, will expand the Chapter 90 program and help address transportation-related improvements, road and bridge repairs and the impacts of climate change on local infrastructure. The bill includes a one-year authorization of $300 million for the Chapter 90 Program, a 50 per cent increase over past funding levels. The bill also appropriates $885 million in additional funding that will help ensure the Commonwealth is able to achieve its long-term transportation goals.

“Providing funding for critical infrastructure projects through investments in the Commonwealth’s public transportation, roads, and bridges is one of the most important responsibilities that we have as members of the Legislature,” said House Speaker Ronald J. Mariano (D-Quincy). “I’m proud of the support for local infrastructure repairs that this legislation provides, and of the funding that it allocates for projects that will address congestion hotspots across the Commonwealth. I want to thank Chairman Arciero, Chairman Finn, and all my colleagues in the House, as well as our partners in the Senate, for supporting this vital legislation.”

“Today the Legislature acted to give our cities and towns the financial tools they need to improve the infrastructure residents use to get to work, school and home every day,” said Senate President Karen E. Spilka (D-Ashland). “I’m proud that this funding will go to continuing to build a 21st century infrastructure in our Commonwealth and make investments in projects that promote public transit and reduce emissions. I’m thankful to Chair Rodrigues and Senator Crighton for their work, and to Speaker Mariano and our colleagues in the House for their partnership.”

“Investing in our local roads, bridges, and transportation systems is crucial for ensuring safe and dependable infrastructure throughout the Commonwealth,” said Representative Jessica Giannino (D-Revere). “This expanded Chapter 90 authorization marks a significant advancement for cities like Revere and others across the state. These funds will enable us to tackle urgent repair requirements, enhance climate resilience, and proceed with long-awaited improvements that affect residents and commuters on a daily basis. I take pride in supporting this legislation and express my gratitude to Speaker Mariano, Chairman Arciero, and Chairman Finn for their leadership and dedication to addressing the transportation needs of our communities.”

“One of government’s most fundamental roles is the building and maintenance of roads. Our unprecedented funding of Chapter 90 demonstrates our commitment to this important task. Better roads allow for safer commutes and an efficient flow of commerce. In short, Chapter 90 funding is a winner for all,” said Representative Jeffrey Rosario Turco (D-Winthrop).

“This historic level of funding will help cities and towns improve their roads and sidewalks along with other transportation infrastructure,” said Senator Brendan Crighton (D-Lynn), who is Senate Chair of the Legislature’s Joint Committee on Transportation. “As we are experiencing increasing traffic congestion and the negative impacts of climate change, it is crucial that we prioritize investments that make it easier for our residents to travel safely. Thank you to Senate President Spilka for her steadfast leadership and commitment to transformative infrastructure.”

“This legislation takes into consideration years of feedback from the Administration and our local partners,” said Senator Ed Kennedy (D-Lowell), who is Senate Chair of the Legislature’s Joint Committee on Bonding, Capital Expenditures and State Assets. “In addition to incorporating 50 per cent more funding to Chapter 90 than in previous years, these funds are supplemented by additional targeted resources that will improve the roads, bridges, and transportation related infrastructure in all types of communities in the Commonwealth.”

The one-year $300 million (M) authorization in the Chapter 90 program funding represents a historic 50 percent increase and includes:

• $200M to be distributed to all municipalities based on the standard Chapter 90 program distribution formula
• $100M to be distributed to all municipalities based solely on road mileage

Funding for three additional critical programs to support various transportation-related projects includes:

• $500M for the Lifecycle Asset Management Program (LAMP), which supports non-federally aided roads and targets the pavement and bridges that are in the worst condition
• $200M for a culvert and small bridge repair program for municipalities’ local culverts and small bridges under 20 feet that are in a state of disrepair or require replacement
• $185M for capital projects to reduce congestion hotspots, funding that will be available for projects like shared use paths, intersection improvements, railroad grade crossings and sidewalks

Both chambers of the Legislature having voted to enact the legislation, the bill now goes to the Governor for her signature.