BCAT News

Burlington will receive over $600,000 in local investments as the Massachusetts Legislature recently passed a wide-ranging $3.76 billion relief package to provide targeted energy assistance, support ongoing transportation needs, and invest in the state’s small businesses, caregivers, health care system, affordable housing, and efforts to fight climate change. Sen. Cindy F. Friedman (D-Arlington) and Rep. Ken Gordon (D-Bedford) joined their colleagues in the Legislature to support the legislation.

Burlington’s share of the package includes:

• $300,000 for Northeastern University’s construction of Wet Laboratories and Maker Space.
• $200,000 for Food Link.
• $100,000 for planning and implementation of a mixed-use walkable village.

“I’m glad that the House and Senate came together to get this important piece of legislation to the governor,” said Rep. Ken Gordon. “As our residents face economic uncertainty and rising costs this winter, this bill will provide much needed energy and food security assistance, and makes critical investments in industries our residents need, like our nursing facilities and early education providers. I’m grateful that this bill also includes direct funding for Burlington that will help our local economy continue to thrive.”

“I am pleased with the important investments in both our community and across the Commonwealth that this sweeping legislation makes,” said Friedman, Vice Chair of the Senate Committee on Ways and Means. “Providing funding for food security efforts, affordable housing initiatives, and the strengthening of hospitals and behavioral health services is a critical step in ensuring our residents continue to have the resources they need as we face rising prices and financial hardships. I was proud to vote to send this legislation to the governor’s desk and thank my colleagues for their work to get this over the finish line.”

In addition to $3.76 billion in direct investments, this legislation ensures that the Commonwealth responsibly pays for the historic $3 billion one-time tax relief that will be returned to an estimated 3 million taxpayers over the coming weeks. Combined, this $6.76 billion in tax relief and direct investments will provide much-needed breathing room for families, small businesses, and individuals feeling the pinch of inflation. Notably, the bill closes the books on Fiscal Year 2022 and dedicates $500 million in federal American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds, leaving a balance of $1.74 billion in federal resources for future use.