BOSTON — On Wednesday, June 6, the Massachusetts House of Representatives and Senate passed H.4549, An Act providing for capital facility repairs and improvements for the Commonwealth, a compromise borrowing bill agreed to by both chambers.
The Capital Facility Bond bill provides $3.87 billion in funding for projects in and impacting Lexington, the surrounding communities, and the Commonwealth as a whole. Bond bills are a part of the capital budget rather than the operating budget. They are different from the annual budget debate of which the FY19 is currently in conference committee.
The local delegation is proud to report that local projects include:
- $1,400,000 to design and construct a photovoltaic overlay district for Minuteman Regional Vocational Technical High School’s parking lot.
- $370,000 to replace the radio console of the public safety dispatch center in Lexington.
- $675,000 to improve accessibility at the visitor center in Lexington.
“I am pleased that funding for Minuteman’s photovoltaic overlay was included in the bond bill,” said Representative Kaufman (D-Lexington). “It is a practical and forward thinking project that installs solar panels above the school parking lot, collecting energy for Minuteman and for the electric grid.”
“This bill will benefit cities and towns across the Commonwealth by supporting important local infrastructure projects, including the development of a solar project at Minuteman High School,” said Senator Friedman (D-Arlington). “With these funds, we will be able to preserve, maintain and build facilities that are vital to our community.”
“Lexington Visitors’ Center has not been updated in decades,” said Senator Mike Barrett (D-Lexington). “For those with disabilities, the money will ensure that the new and improved building has accessible front and back entrances, lower countertops at the ticket and information booths, and an elevator. Additionally, the famous diorama of the Battle of Lexington will be made accessible, and disabled bathrooms will be built inside and outside of the building.”
Other regional projects of note include:
- $10,000,000 to produce and complete an environmental impact report final environmental impact statement on the North South Rail Link.
- $400,000 for a study to document and analyze the condition and strategic placement of Massachusetts Army National Guard facilities and create a master-plan for their capital needs.