COVID19

Publications

Publication

Federal Relief and Recovery Funding and Massachusetts’ Transportation Future

Key Takeaways

  • Although crucial to how we live and connect to opportunity, Massachusetts transportation systems are inadequate and inequitable.
  • Federal COVID-19 relief has provided $3.3 billion to Massachusetts for public transit, airports, Amtrak, and the Department of Transportation.
  • ARPA fiscal recovery funds ($5.3 billion to the state and $3.4 to municipalities) could also support transportation needs, such as cutting or eliminating transit fares or quick construction projects.
  • The infrastructure bill moving through Congress could provide significant one-time transportation funding, but the Commonwealth will still need longer-term revenues for operations and upkeep.
  • The Fair Share Amendment ballot question coming before voters in November 2022 can provide longer-term revenues to help sustain improved transportation systems.
Publication

Using State Fiscal Recovery Funds: Sustainable, Equitable, and Community-Driven Planning

Key Takeaways

  • Spending federal relief dollars should be cross-sectional and community-driven.
  • The plan for utilizing ARPA fiscal recovery funds should include long-term revenue options to sustain critical investments.
  • ARPA recovery fund usage is not limited based on citizenship, and addressing the disparate impact of COVID-19 is encouraged – so funds can and should be used equitably and inclusively.