- August 24, 2021
- Massachusetts Budget and Policy Center
- Phineas Baxandall
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.