By Bob Katzen

The governor signed into law an $11.3 billion transportation and infrastructure package that includes $1.375 billion for Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA) modernization and $1.27 billion for non-federally aided roads and bridges.

Other provisions include $114 million for airport improvements; $25 million for municipal road pavement improvements; $20 million for municipalities under the Complete Streets Funding Program; $25.5 million for the Mobility Assistance Program; mandating the MBTA to establish a 3-year safety improvement plan with measurable safety objectives; and directing the MBTA to contract with an independent third-party auditor to conduct annual safety audits.

Gov. Baker said the legislation supports significant investments in the state’s roads, bridges, railways, transit agencies and environmental infrastructure, including investments made possible by the historic federal Bipartisan Infrastructure Law enacted on November 15, 2021. He noted the legislation represents a crucial next step implementing critical infrastructure investments designed to modernize the state’s transportation network while supporting carbon reduction and resiliency goals.

“Overall, this legislation represents a crucial next step implementing critical infrastructure investments designed to modernize the state’s transportation network while supporting carbon reduction and resiliency goal,” said Baker. “[It] also includes funding for initial implementation efforts in support of new East-West passenger rail service. It will also enable us to increase clean energy efforts, including the expansion of our electric vehicle charging infrastructure to facilitate long- distance travel and provide additional convenient charging options.”