MAYOR MICHELLE WU ANNOUNCES EXTENSION OF FARE-FREE TRANSIT PROGRAM

 MAYOR MICHELLE WU ANNOUNCES EXTENSION OF FARE-FREE TRANSIT PROGRAM

New agreement with MBTA will keep Routes 23, 28, 29 free for all riders through June

BOSTON – Friday, February 20, 2026 – Mayor Michelle Wu today announced that the City of Boston has extended its successful fare-free transit program through the end of June. During the pilot, ridership has grown faster on Routes 23, 28, and 29 than anywhere else in the MBTA system, while saving families money and improving bus speed and reliability. The program had previously been set to expire at the end of the month. The City is discussing the long-term future of the program with the MBTA.

“Fare-free bus service helps families, workers, and businesses, and also makes bus service faster and more reliable. Carrying 16% more riders than before the pandemic and cutting dwell times by about 20% through all-door boarding, the buses have stayed on schedule even while carrying more passengers. We are extending this program through June, as we look to work with the MBTA to keep this going,” said Mayor Michelle Wu.

Since the beginning of the fare free pilot, nearly 24,000 trips are taken fare-free every weekday on Routes 23, 28, and 29. Ridership grew by 35% in the first year—more than double the MBTA system average—and these routes are now carrying 16% more riders than before the pandemic. All-door boarding has cut dwell times by about 20%. 

"Fare-free transit ensures more reliable, efficient transit for everyone,” said Nick Gove, Interim Chief of Streets. “It returns valuable time to our residents and provides more affordable options when choosing how to get around Boston. We thank the MBTA for their continued collaboration."

According to surveys, more than a quarter of riders save at least $20 a month, money that families now put toward groceries, medicine, rent, or school supplies. Some riders say the program has helped them build emergency funds, cover school expenses, or simply stay in their homes.

“Over the past few years, we've been pleased to be able to support the City of Boston’s program offering free bus service on Routes 23, 28 and 29," said Interim Transportation Secretary and MBTA General Manager Phillip Eng. "Since Day One of the Healey-Driscoll Administration, not only have we been focused on ensuring safe, reliable and improved transit service but making it more accessible and affordable with our successful Income-Eligible Reduced Fare program. Under the Income-Eligible program, nearly 36,000 people are paying significantly reduced fares across every mode of transit, including bus. Working with the City of Boston and all of our municipal partners, we are improving people’s quality of life and making a real difference, building a more equitable and affordable transportation system network for all who depend on it."

The City has allocated about $340,000 per month to reimburse the MBTA for the pilot, which is funded through ARPA dollars. As the City uses its remaining ARPA dollars, the City has projected costs relative to budget availability, and is able to extend the program through June. 

Governor Healey Issues Statement Regarding White House Governors Meeting

 Governor Healey Issues Statement Regarding White House Governors Meeting 

BOSTON – Governor Maura Healey issued the following statement about her decision not to attend the White House meeting with Governors on Friday or White House Dinner on Saturday. These events have historically been hosted by the National Governors Association during their annual conference, until this year.  
 
“For years, Governors of both parties met with Presidents of both parties annually. This has always been an important opportunity for us to discuss the most pressing issues facing our country and how we can work together on solutions. But it should come as no surprise to anyone that President Trump has completely politicized this. He continues to act in a manner that’s beneath the dignity of the Office of the President of the United States. 
 
President Trump has made this whole thing a farce. He doesn’t want to work together. He's afraid to hear the truth about the damage he’s doing to our economy, how he’s making life harder and more expensive, the dangerous and unlawful tactics of ICE, his tariffs that are driving up costs for everyone, and his cuts to health care. He doesn’t want to hear about how he’s hurting American competitiveness by defunding science and research, or how he’s driving away foreign partners and investment while countries like China look to lap us in technology, AI and energy production. 
 
As Governor, I work with people of all parties to get things done. We’ve passed tax cuts, a major housing bill, a jobs bill – all with bipartisan support. But if the President doesn’t want a serious discussion about how we can deliver for the American people, then we aren’t going to waste our time.” 

Massachusetts Senate to Take Up BRIGHT Act, Equipping Campuses and Students with Facilities Designed to Lead

Massachusetts Senate to Take Up BRIGHT Act, Equipping Campuses and Students with Facilities Designed to Lead 

Ways and Means Committee Advances Legislation, Full Senate to Take Action Next Week 

 

(BOSTON—2/19/2026) The Senate Committee on Ways and Means today voted to advance the BRIGHT Act, a $3.28 billion bond bill that supports public higher education students’ access to modernized infrastructure and facilities at Massachusetts’ community colleges, state universities, and UMass campuses. 

 

S.2962, An Act to build resilient infrastructure to generate higher-ed transformation, will be taken up by the full Senate on Thursday, February 26. 

 

The legislation will help deliver updated facilities and ensure the sustainability of Massachusetts’ public higher education institutions by addressing the backlog of deferred maintenance projects, including an estimated $2.5 billion in special obligation bonding to help cover deferred maintenance costs, repairs, and major capital projects. To finance the projects, the legislation dedicates $125 million in annual ‘Fair Share’ revenue for public higher education capital projects.  

 

The bonding would also support laboratory modernization projects along with facilities that bolster workforce development and vocational technical training. The bill incentivizes housing production by helping to open up underutilized spaces by financing the transition of campus property into housing and mixed-use development, while also streamlining the process for public colleges and universities to sell off or lease surplus land. And ensuring that public higher education land is used responsibly, the legislation authorizes investment in climate resilience, decarbonization, and energy efficiency priorities. 

 

The Senate has led in recent years on policies to make public higher education more accessible to residents than ever before, including tuition-free community college and historic increases to financial aid. 

 

The bill was originally filed by Governor Maura Healey and was opened up to public testimony at a hearing of the Joint Committee on Higher Education on June 3, 2025. The House of Representatives passed a redrafted version on November 18, 2025, which was then reviewed by the Senate Committee on Ways and Means. 

 

Senators are able to file amendments until 2:30 p.m. on Monday, February 23. 

 

All committee votes are publicly posted on the Legislature’s website. Full details of the legislation are included in a fact sheet available in the Senate Press Room. 

MAYOR MICHELLE WU LAUNCHES APPLICATION FOR NEXT COHORT OF POWERCORPS BOSTON

 MAYOR MICHELLE WU LAUNCHES APPLICATION FOR NEXT COHORT OF POWERCORPS BOSTON

BOSTON – Thursday, February 19, 2026 – Mayor Michelle Wu today announced that applications are now open for the next cohort of PowerCorps Boston, the City’s green industry workforce development program for young people. Following a “learn and earn” model, the program pays Boston’s young adults to participate in hands-on training while providing career readiness support and connections to employers in the green industry. Residents ages 18-30 can apply at boston.gov/powercorps. 

“PowerCorps Boston is a direct investment in the future of our young leaders while helping build Boston into a more vibrant, greener and resilient city,” said Mayor Michelle Wu. “This critical program connects residents with hands-on jobs training and expands career pathways across sectors, strengthening our neighborhoods and building a more climate-ready workforce. As applications open for our next cohort, I encourage anyone interested to apply, and we’re looking forward to welcoming the program’s next generation of leaders this summer.”

Led by the Worker Empowerment Cabinet, in partnership with the Environment Department, PowerCorps Boston prepares young adults for living-wage careers that address Boston’s most pressing environmental challenges. The program collaborates with over 60 non-profits, higher education institutions, and private sector organizations in Boston’s green industry to offer participants high-quality training opportunities and classroom instruction that lead to industry-recognized credentials. 

Over the course of 10 months, members receive a comprehensive and immersive experience that includes two phases: 

• The first phase, Foundations, is a four-month training program where participants focus on workforce-readiness skills, are introduced to green industry careers, and receive necessary support services to complete the program. This phase combines training in soft skills and environmental hard skills, applicable for employment in the green industry and beyond. 
• The second phase, Industry Academy, is a six-month training where participants choose to specialize in one of the three tracks:
• Urban Forestry: The study of arboriculture, including topics like soils, urban tree stressors, and pruning techniques. 
• Building Operations: A hybrid training model combining college-level courses and on-the-job training to operate and maintain buildings at peak efficiency.
• Urban Greening: A training in green infrastructure, urban agriculture, and natural resource management.

“PowerCorps Boston offers young adults, especially those from environmental justice populations, a great opportunity to earn money to get hands-on experience, skills training, and several industry-recognized certifications, all while improving their communities,” said Davo Jefferson, Executive Director of PowerCorps Boston. “The program prepares participants for pathways to living wage, high-demand jobs, and positions them to have a positive impact on both the city and the environment.”

“PowerCorps is an important part of our city’s green jobs future. It’s about training our workforce for the jobs we’ll need in the next quarter of the 21st century, while also protecting our environment for generations to come,” said City Councilor Brian Worrell. “I’ve seen that impact firsthand working with PowerCorps and our Parks Department to improve playgrounds, revitalize vacant lots, and enhance spaces around MBTA stations in District 4. I’m excited to see what this next cohort will accomplish. Programs like this create real career pathways for young people to build skills, earn a living wage, and stay rooted in their communities. As Chair of Environmental Justice, Resiliency, and Parks, as well as Labor and Economic Development, I’m proud to support PowerCorps because it brings together economic opportunity and environmental justice in a way that improves quality of life for our residents.” 

To create a climate-ready city, Boston must cultivate a climate-ready workforce. According to the City's Climate Ready Workforce Action Plan, Boston is expected to see increased demand for workers across all green-related positions in the coming decades. Between now and 2050, efforts to design, build, and operate a clean energy economy and to ensure Boston’s climate resiliency will keep about 67,000 people employed each year, including 6,700 new jobs that would not exist without Boston’s climate policies and strategies. As the report suggests, expanding training opportunities, especially for the 45.5% of Bostonians without a Bachelor’s Degree, will be critical to ensuring Boston can meet the demands of a growing, evolving green economy. Programs like PowerCorps Boston are critical to strengthening Boston’s green workforce ecosystem and preparing residents for high-quality, skilled employment in green jobs. 

"Boston is leading the charge in developing a climate-ready workforce," said Trinh Nguyen, Chief of Worker Empowerment. "PowerCorps is a proven career pipeline that will lead workers to good jobs, address the effects of climate change, and meet employer and industry demands. I encourage eligible young adults to apply and take the first step to a fulfilling, impactful career."

PowerCorps Boston is now accepting applications for the May 2026 cohort. Referrals can also be submitted. To be eligible, applicants must be 18-30 years old; be a Boston resident; have a high school diploma or its equivalent (GED/HiSET); be unemployed or underemployed and not in college or on a career track; and have an interest in outdoor, hands-on training. Priority populations include residents from environmental justice communities, returning citizens, court-involved residents, youth who have experienced homelessness or housing instability, youth who have been in foster care, and other marginalized communities. For questions about the program, contact PowerCorpsBOS@boston.gov.

Healey政府第8名首長離任 Juana Matias將接替Augustus Jr.任麻州住房長

(Boston Orange 編譯) 麻州州長辦公室今（19）日又宣佈一名內閣首長卸任的消息。住房及宜居社區廳（Housing and Livable Communities）廳長Edward M. Augustus Jr.將於2月27日離任。奚莉（Maura Healey）州長已指派曾任麻州議員的Juana Matias於4月1日接掌此職。

這是奚莉州長從2023年就任迄今的3年多來，第8位內閣首長離職，之前的教育廳廳長Patrick Tutwiler離職，也不過是大約兩星期前的事。

這8名內閣首長的離任各有不同背景，但外界解讀其中因素包括政治壓力，政策分歧，個人生涯規劃，以及州政府面對的財政與民生挑戰等。

最早是2023年9月時，交通廳廳長Gina fiandaca離任，據說那是因為當時麻州地鐵系統（MBTA）故障頻傳，民怨極深。

接著的2025年，陸續有4月的經濟發展廳廳長郝伊平（Yvonne Hao），7月的麻州衛生和人民服務廳（Health and Human Services）廳長Kate Walsh，8月宣佈的退伍軍人服務廳廳長Jon Santiago，10月的公安廳廳長Terrence Reidy，交通廳廳長Monica Tibbits-Nutt。2026年2月，陸續有教育廳廳長Patrick Tutwiler，以及今日公佈的的住房及宜居社區廳廳長Edward M. Augustus Jr.。

經濟發展廳廳長郝伊平（Yvonne Hao）去年是以需照顧遠在加州的母親為由，辭職卸任。但坊間認為，麻州政府在2024年底到2025年初的稅收表現不佳，奚莉州長要求各部門縮減開支，並宣佈凍結人事，這使得郝伊平難以推動大型經濟發展計劃。尤其是同年9月，她接受了麻州頻頻創造“獨角獸”新創公司的旗艦創投（Flagship）邀約，出任營運長兼有權分享20%基金總利潤的普通合夥人（GP），意味著郝伊平不僅薪資從政府公職的每年約20萬元，狂升至每年可達數百萬元，而且還還可放眼全球的扶持有潛力改變世界的新創公司。

麻州衛生和人民服務廳（Health and Human Services）廳長Kate Walsh則是接任前原本要退休的，接任後在2025年處理了全美最大的私營醫療系統破產案，Steward醫療系統旗下幾家醫院倒閉，數十萬人的醫療受影響，7 月完成這些醫院的收購，過渡安排後，曾任波士頓醫療中心執行長的她決定退休，但仍留任為州長高級顧問。

從查理貝克（Charlie Baker）州長時期留任下來的公安廳廳長Terrence Reidy 則是退休。奚莉州長指派了韓裔的Gina Kwon接任此職。

原本是麻州眾議員，參選波士頓市長失利，旋即被麻州州長奚莉指派為首任麻州退伍軍人服務廳廳長的Jon Santiago，成功推動「英雄法案（Hero Act）」，把傷殘退伍軍人年金提高了25%，爭取到2.6億元聯邦資金補助，改善Chelsea 和Holyoke的退伍軍人之家，成功協助約500名退伍軍人搬進永久性住房的完成多項歷史性任務後，決定回歸醫師生涯。

Monica Tibbits-Nutt則是唯一的因為公開提議在麻州邊境設收費站，以及處理高速公路休息站合約糾紛（Applegreen）引發爭議而辭職的內閣首長。

今年2月離任的2名內閣首長，都是另有高就。教育廳廳長Patrick Tutwiler離任後，當Needham鎮非營利組織Walker 療法及教育項目的董事長兼執行長，曾任Worcester市經理的住房及宜居社區廳廳長Edward M. Augustus Jr.則是出任UniBank 執行長。

Juana Matias在多明尼加（Dominican）出生，獲有薩福克大學法學院法律學位，預定4月1日上任。

Governor Healey Appoints Juana Matias as Secretary of Housing and Livable Communities 

After three years of historic leadership, Ed Augustus steps down on February 27  

BOSTON – Today, Governor Maura Healey announced that she is appointing Juana Matias as Secretary of the Executive Office of Housing and Livable Communities (HLC). Matias previously served as Regional Administrator for the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) and is a former Massachusetts State Representative for the 16th Essex District. Current Housing and Livable Communities Secretary Ed Augustus will step down from his position on Friday, February 27, and Deputy Secretary Jennifer Maddox will serve as Interim Secretary until Matias assumes her position on April 1. 

“Since taking office, we've made significant progress on building more housing to lower costs for people and businesses. We’ve leaned on the partnership of leaders in this field – leaders like Juana Matias, who we’re thrilled to welcome to the team as Secretary of Housing and Livable Communities. Juana brings with her a deep understanding of housing policy from her time as HUD Regional Administrator and a longtime commitment to Massachusetts. We’re excited to further our housing agenda and look forward to working with Juana to meet this moment,” said Governor Healey. “I’m incredibly grateful for Secretary Augustus’ leadership as Secretary of Housing over the last three years. Together, we’ve passed the state’s most comprehensive housing legislation ever and ushered in the development of 100,000 new housing units. His dedication to Massachusetts has always been clear, and we’re thankful for all that he's accomplished as Secretary. We wish him all the best in his next steps.” 

“We’re excited to welcome Juana as our next Secretary of Housing and Livable Communities. Her experience leading transformative housing policies across New England makes her an incredible choice to lead the future of housing for Massachusetts,” said Lieutenant Governor Kim Driscoll. “We’re so grateful for Secretary Augustus’ partnership and collaboration over the last three years and look forward to seeing him thrive in his next venture.” 

“I’m honored that Governor Healey and Lieutenant Governor Driscoll placed their faith in me to help lead this new secretariat,” said Secretary Augustus. “Massachusetts’ housing crisis impacts every community, but we know what the solution is — build more housing and strengthen the systems that help people find stability at every stage. I’m deeply grateful to the talented, mission-driven public servants across HLC. This team delivered with creativity, rigor and heart, and I leave confident that HLC under Secretary Matias’ leadership will keep pushing forward to make housing more affordable and more available across Massachusetts.” 

“I’m honored to join the Healey-Driscoll team as Secretary of Housing and Livable Communities, and I’m grateful to Governor Healey and Lieutenant Governor Driscoll for their trust. I want to thank Secretary Augustus for his leadership and for the strong foundation he has built to expand housing opportunities across the Commonwealth,” said Juana Matias. “Under Governor Healey’s leadership, Massachusetts is already seeing more housing development across the state. We must continue increasing production while preserving affordability, working in partnership with local leaders, developers, advocates, and residents across the Commonwealth. I have dedicated my career to serving the people of this state and I’ve seen the transformative impact that pro-growth housing policy can have on communities and economies. Ensuring families have the foundation they need to build their lives in Massachusetts is essential, and I’m ready to get to work.” 

Matias was appointed HUD Regional Administrator by President Joe Biden, where she advanced federal housing policy across New England and oversaw offices in Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Rhode Island and Vermont. In this role, she managed an annual budget of $8.47 billion in federal appropriations and oversaw competitive and formula-based grants, affordable housing subsidies for 183,370 Housing Choice Voucher households, 59,004 public housing units, and 8,000 project-based rental properties. She oversaw the administration and performance of HUD programs across the region, including rental assistance, homelessness initiatives, and the enforcement of the Fair Housing Act. She also facilitated access to housing development and homeownership resources, including FHA-insured mortgages, housing counseling, and grants for lead hazard control, community development, and affordable housing.  

Prior to joining HUD, Matias served as Chief Operating Officer of MassINC and Commonwealth Magazine and was previously a Massachusetts State Representative for the 16th Essex District in Lawrence and Methuen.  

Matias holds a Bachelor of Arts in political science and criminal justice from University of Massachusetts Boston and a Juris Doctor from Suffolk University Law School. She was born in the Dominican Republic and now lives in Boxford. She speaks Spanish and has served on several boards including the University of Massachusetts, Lawrence Alliance for Education, Beth Israel Lahey Hospital, and Amplify Latinx (now WeAreALX). 

Governor Healey created the state’s first housing secretariat in 30 years and appointed Secretary Augustus to lead the office in 2023. Over the last three years, Secretary Augustus stood up the new cabinet-level secretariat of approximately 600 employees and assembled a team to craft, execute and engage with external stakeholders on the Healey-Driscoll Administration’s housing goals. He spearheaded the administration’s efforts to address the state's housing shortage with the focus and urgency it demands. Together, Governor Healey and Secretary Augustus passed the Affordable Homes Act, a historic $5.2 billion investment in housing production that included 50 policy initiatives to expand housing tools statewide. Under Secretary Augustus’ leadership, the administration filed the state’s first-ever five-year housing plan, “A Home for Everyone”, and took action to speed up the permitting process for new homes, turn state land into thousands of new homes, convert downtown commercial space into apartments, create a first-in-the-nation fund to finance mixed-income development in a time of high interest rates, and legalize Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs).  

The administration also expanded key housing production tools by implementing increases to tax credits like LITC and HDIP, created the new Seasonal Communities designation to deliver customized tools that support year-round housing in communities with substantial seasonal swings in employment and housing and transformed and strengthened homelessness prevention programs.  

Secretary Augustus will be leaving the Executive Office of Housing and Livable Communities to become CEO of UniBank. Headquartered in the Blackstone Valley, UniBank is the largest bank based in Central Massachusetts. 

慶祝王安劇院百週年專書面市

王安劇院早年外觀。（公關公司提供）

              (Boston Orange編譯)波士頓博赫中心（Boch Center）為慶祝王氏劇院（Wang Theatre）落成一百週年，2月17日宣佈推出精裝紀念專書，詳盡紀錄天滿街（Tremont）上這座建築的歷史興衰、建築美學，以及它對波士頓文化生活的深遠影響。

這本紀念專書厚230 餘頁，附大量珍貴檔案照片，由博赫中心總裁兼執行長 J. Casey Soward 和 Matthew Pacific ，以及 Paige Besse 攜手撰寫，完整追溯了這劇院從1925 年起以「大都會劇院（Metropolitan Theatre）」之名營運，接著改名「音樂廳（Music Hall）」，到如今成為博赫中心王氏劇院的演進歷程。

J. Casey Soward 表示，王氏劇院承載了數代波士頓人擁有的無數難忘時刻，這本書以虔誠之心，竭力細緻的捕捉了這些故事。他們很自豪，能夠在王氏劇院慶祝百週年之際，和社區分享這本書，向塑造這座地標的藝術家、觀眾與支持者致敬。

王氏劇院當年由 Max Shoolman 承建、建築師 Clarence Blackall 設計，1925 年面市時，不但內部裝潢奢華，藝術感橫溢，有3600多個座位，更是全美最大的劇院之一。輾轉來到1980 年代時，劇院營運拮据，面對拆除危機，王安電腦創辦人王安博士（Dr. An Wang）慷慨捐助，這才獲得新生，劇院也改名為王氏劇院。 2016 年汽車業博赫（Boch）家族提供長期巨額捐款，取得冠名權後，這劇院改以博赫中心王氏劇院（Boch Center Wang Theatre）之名，持續作為波士頓是的音樂、戲劇與社區教育重鎮。

「王氏劇院」紀念專書目前已在博赫中心官網（bochcenter.org）上架銷售，每本售價 40 美元，提供寄送或現場取貨服務。該書所有銷售收益將全數撥入博赫中心的非營利基金，用於支持藝術教育及社區發展計畫。

BOCH CENTER ANNOUNCES COMMEMORATIVE WANG THEATRE BOOK

New Hardcover Book Release Celebrates the Historic Venue

Boston, MA (February 17, 2026) – The Boch Center, one of the nation’s premier nonprofit performing arts institutions, is thrilled to announce the release of a new hardcover book in commemoration of the Wang Theatre’s 100th anniversary honoring the history, architecture, and cultural legacy of one of Boston’s most treasured landmarks. Created to celebrate the theatre’s centennial era and enduring impact on Tremont Street and beyond, the Wang Theatre book tells the story of the venue from its earliest days to its modern reinvention as a cornerstone of Boston’s cultural life.

 

The commemorative keepsake spans over 230 pages bringing nearly a century of performances, artistry, and community connection to life through rare archival photography, curated historical highlights, and newly written introductory and historical essays. The book traces the theatre’s evolution from its 1925 opening as the Metropolitan Theatre to its enduring legacy today as the Boch Center Wang Theatre.

 

Editorial contributions for the book were provided by J. Casey Soward, Matthew Pacific, and Paige Besse, whose work helps contextualize the theatre’s artistic and civic significance across generations.  Designed as a premium keepsake for theatre lovers, history enthusiasts, and audiences who share a personal connection to the venue, the Wang Theatre book serves as both a historical document and a celebration of the people and performances that have shaped the theatre over the past century.

 

“The Wang Theatre has been a home for unforgettable moments for generations of Bostonians, and this book captures that story with the detail and care it deserves,” said J. Casey Soward, President & CEO of the Boch Center. “As we celebrate the theatre’s 100th anniversary, we’re proud to share this commemorative piece with our community and to honor the artists, audiences, and supporters who have made the Wang Theatre such an enduring landmark.”

 

The Wang Theatre commemorative book is available for purchase for $40 online at bochcenter.org, with shipping and convenient theatre pick-up options available.  Book sales also help support the Boch Center’s nonprofit mission, including arts education and community programming. The release coincides with the Wang Theatre’s centennial year initiatives, which celebrate the venue’s storied past while looking ahead to its future as a vibrant home for world-class performance and community engagement.

“Trees Make Happiness 2” - New Art Installation at Boston Children’s Museum Celebrating the 15th Anniversary of the Arts Friends Tohoku Project

 “Trees Make Happiness 2” - New Art Installation at Boston Children’s Museum Celebrating the 15th Anniversary of the Arts Friends Tohoku Project

BOSTON, MA—February 18, 2026 — Boston Children’s Museum has recently opened the "Trees Make Happiness 2" art installation featured in its Japanese House Gallery. This new exhibit builds on the Museum’s ongoing commitment to cultural exchange and artistic exploration, offering a unique opportunity to experience creative works that celebrate the significance of trees in Japanese culture. 

The installation showcases a variety of artworks by young Japanese artists, inviting visitors to reflect on the connections between nature, happiness, and resilience as expressed through art. It encourages meaningful connections through shared experiences and an appreciation of the significance of trees as expressed by their peers in Japan—who are thousands of miles away from Boston. Building on the foundation of the original “Trees Make Happiness” exhibit, which traveled from Japan and was first displayed at the Museum in 2016, this new installation invites both artists and visitors to reflect on how trees are connected to themes of happiness, comfort, and resilience.

“The young Japanese artists’ works blend personal, cultural, and religious influences, including Japanese beliefs in tree spirits,” said Akemi Chayama, Manager of the Museum’s Japan Program. “Visitors will notice the variety in the way trees are portrayed—vitality, resilience, playfulness, and gentleness—and return home inspired to see the different trees in their own neighborhoods. Though small in size, this exhibition has a big goal!”

The current pieces play a significant part in the Arts Friends Tohoku Project, which was initiated by the Japan Program at Boston Children’s Museum in 2011 in the aftermath of the Tohoku earthquake and tsunami. Minatsu Ariga, a former Museum intern, volunteer, and graduate of Lesley University (MA), began teaching at Tohoku University of Art and Design and launched the Art Thinking initiative to explore the importance of art in the development of young people. Since its start, Boston Children’s Museum and Art Thinking have worked together to present seven art exhibitions and eight cultural programs for audiences of all ages in Boston. The Arts Friends Tohoku Project marks its 15th anniversary in March.

"Trees Make Happiness 2" is the result of collaboration among students, faculty, and alumni from several Japanese institutions, including Kanazawa University, Nagoya University of the Arts, Musashino Gakugei College of Art, Tohoku University of Art and Design (Art in Life), Mie Prefectural Iino High School, and Sugino Fashion College.

The exhibition is located adjacent to the Japanese House — an authentic 19th-century Kyoto home, gifted to Boston in 1979 in celebration of the 20th anniversary of the Sister Cities partnership. 

"Trees Make Happiness 2" will be open through Summer 2026

Massachusetts Receives Final Approval to Enable Universal Broadband Coverage

Massachusetts Receives Final Approval to Enable Universal Broadband Coverage  

Proposal will unlock $18.8 million to fund remaining gaps in service and achieve internet for all statewide 

BOSTON – The Healey-Driscoll Administration received approval for $18.8 million under the National Telecommunications and Information Administration’s (NTIA) Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment (BEAD) program. The funding will enable the Massachusetts Technology Collaborative’s (MassTech) Massachusetts Broadband Institute (MBI) to implement high-speed broadband infrastructure to all remaining unserved and underserved locations in the state, including 251 communities, 2,565 homes and businesses, and 1,243 community anchor institutions.  

The BEAD program expands internet access through a variety of technologies, including fiber optics as well as hybrid fiber-coaxial and low Earth orbit satellite internet. The program builds on the foundation of prior state and federal investments by MBI through the Executive Office of Economic Development that have brought Massachusetts to over 99 percent statewide broadband coverage, including awards made under the state-funded Last Mile Grant programs and the federally funded Gap Networks Program. 

“For everything from work and starting a business, to engaging with friends and family, and accessing government resources, high-speed internet is essential for Massachusetts residents,” said Governor Maura Healey. “With NTIA approval, we can continue to expand internet access to every community and close existing gaps in connectivity.”

“Our administration has been focused on bringing connectivity to communities in every region of the state, including rural, suburban and urban neighborhoods,” said Lieutenant Governor Kim Driscoll. “The BEAD program will provide our state with the resources to support residents through expanded high-speed service.” 

“This milestone reflects the Healey-Driscoll Administration’s ongoing commitment to expanding economic opportunity across the state,” said Economic Development Secretary Eric Paley. “As we close the digital divide, Massachusetts is increasing access to critical services and engaging local businesses to build a more fruitful economy for everyone.” 

“Federal approval of our final BEAD proposal is an important milestone that will advance efforts to close the digital divide in Massachusetts,” said Director of Federal Funds and Infrastructure Quentin Palfrey. “Our state is leveraging all the resources at its disposal to expand digital opportunities. MBI has been invaluable in the effort to increase access and ensure we have a thriving digital economy.” 

In addition to the BEAD grant recipients, internet service providers (ISPs) have launched projects supported through the Gap Networks Program to close breaks in service for 128 communities using over $45 million of U.S. Treasury Capital Projects funds. 

“MBI has been steadfast in its mission to expand internet access for residents, businesses and community anchor institutions,” said MBI Director Michael Baldino. “Our grants to providers through the BEAD program complement other investments being made by MBI through our Residential Retrofit, Gap Networks, and Connected and Online programs to expand digital opportunities in every corner of the state.” 

Through the BEAD program, the following organizations were selected for awards: 

• Archtop Fiber LLC – $1,002,942 

• Comcast Cable Communications Management LLC – $13,228,220 

• Open Cape Corporation – $285,029  

• Space Exploration Technologies Corp. – $2,238,472 

• Verizon New England Inc. – $2,080,803 

More information on the BEAD program in Massachusetts can be found on the MBI website. 

波士頓市再批准5張酒牌更新

 CITY OF BOSTON LICENSING BOARD APPROVES FIVE LIQUOR LICENSE UPGRADES FOR BEER AND WINE LICENSEES

BOSTON - Wednesday, February 18, 2026 - The Boston Licensing Board recently approved five applications from beer and wine licensees upgrading to non-transferable all alcoholic beverages licenses. The approved applicants include Life Time and Trident Booksellers in the Back Bay, Mi Pueblito Orient Heights in East Boston, and Little Sage and Pappare Ristorante in the North End. The Licensing Board will send the five applications to the Alcoholic Beverages Control Commission for investigation and final approval.

“These upgraded liquor licenses will strengthen our communities, connect our residents to more vibrant spaces and expand opportunities for our entrepreneurs,” said Mayor Michelle Wu. “I’m thrilled for these businesses and continue to encourage restaurants to take advantage of this upgrade and apply for an available liquor license. As these businesses continue to grow and thrive, the City will continue to do all we can as a partner to make this process easy and convenient for businesses across neighborhoods.”

As part of the Fiscal Year 2026 Massachusetts State Budget, the State Legislature gave municipalities across Massachusetts the opportunity to opt into legislation that allows licensees permitted to sell only wines and malt beverages to trade in their license for a non-transferable all alcoholic beverages license. 

Mayor Michelle Wu introduced this legislation to the City Council, and on September 20, the City Council approved the adoption of this legislation. On October 21, the Boston Licensing Board held an informational hearing to receive public feedback from licensees and opened a public comment period, which closed on December 3. On January 8, the Board voted on the final regulations. The guidelines include eliminating the need for a community process for anyone who has already completed the process in the past two years. On January 29, the Board approved the first five beer and wine upgrades—these businesses were the first in Massachusetts to take advantage of this legislation.

“We are grateful for the opportunity the City is providing with the upgrade to an all alcohol license,” said  Courtney Flynn, Co-Owner of Trident Booksellers and Cafe. “As a family-owned small business for 40 years, we are always looking for ways to better serve our community. We believe this upgrade will provide a more robust experience for our customers, whether they are attending one of our events, hosting a private party, or dining solo. The license will help us continue to grow and maintain our place as a vibrant, welcoming space in the heart of Back Bay.”

"This is exactly how the new legislation was intended to work," said Kathleen Joyce, Chair of the Boston Licensing Board. "We have created a pathway for existing beer and wine establishments to expand. We’re pleased to see strong interest and will continue reviewing applications and moving them through the approval process.”

The beer and wine upgrades, alongside the 2024 influx of new liquor licenses, enhance the City’s ability to support diverse local entrepreneurs and boost economic growth. 

After Mayor Wu and the Boston City Council filed a successful Home Rule Petition, Governor Maura Healey signed legislation on September 11, 2024, bringing 225 new liquor licenses to Boston. This batch was the single largest addition to Boston’s liquor license quota since the end of Prohibition. With this influx, the City is able to support diverse local entrepreneurs and boost economic growth. Specifically, the legislation created:

• 195 zip code-restricted licenses (both all alcohol and beer and wine) in Charlestown, Dorchester, East Boston, Hyde Park, Jamaica Plain, Mattapan, Roslindale, Roxbury, South End, and West Roxbury, to be granted to the City over three calendar years
• 15 all alcohol licenses for community spaces, including non-profits, small theaters, and outdoor spaces
• 12 transferable all alcohol licenses
• 3 all alcohol neighborhood restricted licenses in Oak Square, Brighton

On December 18, the City of Boston Licensing Board approved the first three transferable all alcohol licenses. The Board approved applications from Ama, the new restaurant in Allston from Comfort Kitchen’s Pearl & Law Hospitality Group; Leather District coffeeshop Gracenote; and Merengue Express in Mission Hill. 

In total, the Board has approved over 60 liquor license applications. In early 2025, the Licensing Board approved 37 new liquor licenses. During the summer, the Licensing Board approved 21 neighborhood restricted licenses and three community space licenses. This fall, the Board approved four neighborhood restricted licenses, and on December 18, approved the first three transferable all alcohol licenses. 

Potential applicants—both for new licenses and those interested in upgrading beer and wine licenses—are encouraged to start the process as soon as possible. The Mayor’s Office of Licensing and Consumer Affairs, the Office of Neighborhood Services, and the Office of Small Business staff will continue to support potential applicants. The City of Boston Licensing Board hosts virtual office hours addressing the liquor license application process. Applicants can also make a drop-in appointment with the Boston Licensing Board at City Hall, Room 809 by contacting 617-635-4170 or emailing licensingboard@boston.gov. 

When reviewing additional applications, the Board will continue to factor in evolving neighborhood needs, market realities, the strength and sustainability of an establishment’s business plan, and the applicant’s ability to further economic growth for surrounding businesses.

Learn more about applying for a liquor license or upgrading an existing license on the Licensing Board website.