Berkshire County Getting $8M In Chapter 90 FundsStaff Reports, iBerkshires
08:05PM / Wednesday, June 27, 2012 | |
NORTH ADAMS, Mass. — Cities and towns across the state will get a much-needed infusion of cash with the release of some $200 million in Chapter 90 highway funds.
Berkshire County will get $8 million total, with its two cities getting the most. Pittsfield will receive $1.4 million and North Adams, $452,676. New Ashford gets the least, at $44,000.
The $200 million in funding has been languishing in the State House as legislators jockeyed over differing versions of a $1.5 billion transportation bill submitted by Gov. Deval Patrick in March. Both Senate and House had agreed on the Chapter 90 funding level.
Both houses enacted a bill authorizing the Chapter 90 funds on Wednesday, freeing up cash for municipalities waiting to start paving and roadwork.
"These funds are critical to our municipalities' welfare and public safety," said House Speaker Robert A. DeLeo, D-Winthrop. "These monies will provide the opportunity for cities and towns to make necessary infrastructure improvements that will enhance public safety, aid commuters, and encourage tourism."
Senate President Therese Murray, D-Plymouth, said it is "vital that we give our cities and towns the resources they need to make necessary investments in infrastructure as they continue to support local businesses and create jobs."
Cities and town have been able to bid for work but unable to sign construction contracts until the state aid was assured.
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