波士頓市長吳弭赴紐約出席氣候週峰會 談能源出席籌款會

波士頓市長吳弭（Michelle Wu)(中），應「哈囉台灣」董事長江明信（右一）和副董事長
馮子馨（左一）之邀，出席籌款會，晤見「和平電影節」會長Jaka Bizilj （左二）
及其女兒。（江明信提供）

     （Boston Orange周菊子波士頓綜合報導）波士頓市長吳弭（Michelle Wu）這2天到紐約出席《紐約氣候週》（Climate Week NYC），今（24）日回到波士頓，為《全國鼠患高峰會》（National Urban Rat Summit）做總結。

波士頓市長吳弭在籌款會中侃侃而談波士頓市的環保，能源措施。（江明信提供）

《紐約氣候週》（Climate Week NYC）是每年9月和聯合國大會同步舉辦的活動。吳弭市長自從2021年首度上任波士頓市長以來，迄今已是至少第3次參加。2024年時，她還和倫敦，蒙特婁，米蘭等國際城市手掌一起連署倡議，呼籲全球國家減低對化石燃料的依賴。

吳弭市長今年在紐約參加了哈佛大學薩拉塔氣候與永續發展研究所（Harvard University's Salata Institute for Climate and Sustainability）所主辦的極端高溫（Extreme Heat）專題論壇，大會主辦的《Subnational Leaders Panel》（地方與地方政府國際領袖論壇），「氣候市長」主辦的和Eric Garcetti 大使爐邊座談。為《Mother Jones》(瓊斯媽媽)這美國知名獨立進步派調查報導媒主辦的氣候桌現場直播做主講人。

波士頓市長吳弭（左）和「哈囉台灣」創辦人江明信。（江明信提供）

        她和加州州長Gavin Newsom，法國前巴黎市長Anne Hidalgo、塞拉利昂（Sierra Leone）首都自由城市長Yvonne Aki-Sawyerr一起出席地方首長論壇時，強調政府是推動實質減碳最迅速且具體的突破口。

江明信的「哈囉台灣」在韓國總統李在明到紐約出席聯合國大會時，
也辦了一場接待會，促進國際友誼。（江明信提供）

吳弭的發言，主要圍繞地方治理和公平轉型這2個核心理念，強調對抗氣候變遷是為社區創造價值的生活提升。他也分享了波士頓市的「2030氣候行動計劃」，以及波士頓推動太陽能，風能與地熱網路的進展，指出透過嚴格的綠建築規範（如限制新建大樓的化石燃料管線），城市能同時達成「減碳」與「創造良好就業機會、降低居民能源支出、改善空氣品質」的三贏效果。

吳弭市長呼籲各國政府與地方全面擺脫化石燃料依賴，重視氣候正義，深化城市間的技術與經驗共享。她還分享了城市防熱與綠化措施，維護氣候正義，守護脆弱社區，以及和南方城市交流的經驗。

吳弭在這趟為期3日的紐約行中，還出席了「哈囉台灣」創辦人江明信為她舉辦的籌款會，在江明信位於洛克斐勒中心的私有場所中，和包括和平電影節（Cinema for peace）董事長Jaka Bizilj在內的20多名支持者聚會，暢論她在紐約氣候週中分享的波士頓案例。

根據麻州競選經費網站，吳弭市長的競選帳戶，截至今年8月31日止，還有現金總額236.9萬美元。在歷任波士頓市長中，是手邊競選經費最充足的一個，不過願意為她籌款的人很多，繼紐約有江明信第6次為她舉辦籌款會之後，9月28日在波士頓，也有陳仕維，陳文珊，黃展唐，雷國輝，譚達兒，余麗媖等人至少第3度出面，為吳弭市長舉辦籌款會。

波士頓市府提醒市民本週末暴風雨來襲 市區降雨量可能高達2~4英寸

     （Boston Orange編譯）波士頓市長吳弭（Michelle Wu）今（ 9 月 24） 日（週四）發佈海岸暴風雨警報，提醒市民，受秋季罕見東北風暴（nor'easter）影響，市區自 25 日（週五）至 27 日（週日）將出現強風豪雨及海岸淹水，其中以週五晚間至週六影響最劇。

    氣象預報顯示降雨量將達 2 至 4 英吋，並伴隨破壞性大的強烈陣風。波士頓水資源與排水委員會（BWSC）營運長 Chase Berkeley 表示已部署額外人力因應長達 72 至 96 小時的暴風雨。波士頓氣候長 Brian Swett 與緊急整備局長 Brooke Amendola 呼籲居民確認淹水風險、準備緊急避難包並減少出門，更切勿涉入積水以防觸電或感染。

    為確保安全，公共工程局取消了原定 26 日舉行的「零廢棄物回收日」（Zero Waste Drop-Off Day），改於 11 月 21 日在西洛士百利（West Roxbury）的密利年公園（Millennium Park）舉行。

    市府已全面啟動應變機制：市民可透過 AlertBoston 訂閱 11 種語言通知；如遇停電可傳簡訊「OUT」至 23129 向 Eversource 通報；路樹倒塌可通報 311 市民熱線。檢驗服務部（ISD）已暫停發放週末室外施工許可；圖書館（BPL）與青少年及家庭中心（BCYF）正常開放供民眾避雨；波士頓公共衛生委員會（BPHC）緊急收容所也將全天候開放。

CITY OF BOSTON ANNOUNCES PREPARATIONS AHEAD OF COASTAL STORM, STARTING FRIDAY THROUGH THIS WEEKEND

BOSTON - Thursday, September 24, 2026 – Mayor Michelle Wu today issued a coastal storm warning for the City of Boston beginning tomorrow, Friday, September 25, through Sunday, September 27, based on the National Weather Service forecast. During this period, with a peak of Friday evening into Saturday, residents can expect potential impacts including heavy rain, strong winds, and coastal flooding and erosion. The latest forecast indicates up to two to four inches of rain, with high damaging winds, with potential for minimal flooding and ponding of water on roadways. Residents are encouraged to stay indoors during the peak of the storm.

“Nor’easters aren’t new for New England, but not usually in September, so we’re taking extra preparations to connect with all our residents about this rare fall nor’easter,” said Mayor Michelle Wu. “We urge residents and families to take all necessary precautions to stay indoors and safe during the storm. Thank you to all our City workers who have been collaborating to keep our neighborhoods safe and our City ready to respond.” 

The City of Boston is taking immediate action to provide relief to residents, families and visitors ahead of this coastal storm. Residents can sign up to receive updates in 11 languages through AlertBoston, the City’s emergency mass notification system, by phone, text, or email. Residents and visitors are also encouraged to learn more about their flood risk at boston.gov/flood

Power outages can be reported online or by contacting Eversource through this link. Residents who use Eversource can sign up to get alerts by texting “REG” to 23129, report power outages by texting “OUT” to 23129, and checking status by texting “STAT” to 23129. Additional information is available on the Eversource webpage.

“Coastal storms can bring rapid changes in tides and weather, leading to flooding, downed trees, power outages and beach erosion,” said Brooke Amendola, Director of Emergency Preparedness. “We are urging everyone in coastal and low-lying areas to prepare now. Clear your property of loose outdoor items, and limit travel during the storm. The actions you take today will help keep you, your family, and our first responders safe.”



As a coastal city, Boston faces the increasing risk of coastal and stormwater flooding due to climate change. In 2025, the Office of Emergency Management shared Boston’s updated preparations for extreme weather events, including long-term climate resilience plans and ongoing efforts to streamline emergency response operations across departments. With this shift, the City has emphasized empowering residents, supporting communities at greatest risk of flooding and other emergency events, and lowering the risk citywide through resilience efforts.

“Ahead of this storm, it is critical to know your home or business’ risk of flooding,” said Brian Swett, Chief Climate Officer. “Due to the climate crisis and sea level rise, Boston is growing more vulnerable to severe weather and coastal flooding every year. For over a decade, the City of Boston has been working with our state and federal partners to protect our vulnerable neighborhoods from these threats, and we will be on high alert this week to ensure our residents stay safe.”

“BWSC is planning for a long duration event, 72-96 hours,” said Boston Water and Sewer Commission Chief of Operations Chase Berkeley. “While rain totals are not predicted to be overwhelming for our systems at this time, we will have additional staff and resources deployed throughout the weekend to handle flooding issues that may arise.”

The City of Boston’s Public Works Department has canceled its Zero Waste Drop-Off Day scheduled for Saturday, September 26, to protect the safety of residents and City staff. The event has been rescheduled for Saturday, November 21, at 315 Gardner St in West Roxbury (Millenium Park). Residents can find information at Boston.gov/Zero-Waste-Day. 

Zero Waste Drop-Off Days allow residents to responsibly dispose of household chemicals, paint, textiles, propane tanks, electronics, light bulbs, and other materials that are not accepted as part of routine curbside trash collection. Residents are strongly encouraged to download the free Trash Day app, which includes a directory of hundreds of household items to help residents find the proper way to dispose of them, along with collection schedule reminders and updates.

BCYF centers will be open regular hours and available to support residents as needed. Boston Public Library locations are available for residents to get out of the storm during their regular hours on Friday, September 25 through Sunday, September 27. 

The Parks and Recreation Department will monitor the storm and keep multiple crews on standby to handle any trees that may come down. The team will also be monitoring some of the flood-prone fields and parks for any impacts from the storm. 

The City issued the following tips ahead of the storm:

• Review your evacuation zones and be prepared to evacuate if you live or work in a flood zone, hurricane evacuation zone, or an area that is prone to flooding.
• Prepare a disaster supply kit, including a flashlight, batteries, first aid supplies, and copies of your critical information if you need to evacuate. Add items to meet any specific household needs for children, parents, those with access and functional needs, and pets.
• Make a record or your personal property by taking photos or videos of your belongings and store them in a safe place.
• Make a family emergency plan and check-in with family, friends, and neighbors.
• Do not wade, walk, or swim in flood waters due to the risk of injury from debris, electrocution from downed wires, and exposure to harmful chemicals or pathogens potentially carried by the flood waters.
• Report downed trees, roadway flooding or sewer backups not caused by conditions in your home by downloading the 311 app or calling 311 (or 617-635-4500), the Mayor’s 24/7 Constituent Service Hotline.
• Report downed power lines to 911
• Limit travel during the storm. If you have to go out, drive with caution.

Information and resources to support individuals experiencing homelessness:

• If you see a person experiencing homelessness or individuals out in the storm who appear immobile, disoriented, or underdressed for the weather, please call 911. 
• The Boston Public Health Commission (BPHC) utilizes a city-wide network of emergency shelters, outreach providers, city agencies, and first responders to assist those in need of shelter.
• Boston Public Health Commission's emergency shelters are open 24 hours a day, seven days a week, and amnesty is in place this Friday through Sunday for those with nonviolent restrictions. Men can access shelter at the 112 Southampton Street Shelter, and women should go to the Woods Mullen Shelter at 794 Massachusetts Ave. BPHC and the City also work closely with other shelter providers to ensure that no client is without shelter, food, resources, and a warm respite from the cold. 
• Shelters are available any time of day or night for those in need. 
• During storms, BPHC street outreach teams keep their normal hours from 6:00 am to 7:00 pm and still help transport people to shelters, treatment, or home. 

The Inspectional Services Department (ISD) asks you to inspect your site and take safety precautions to protect workers, neighboring properties, and the public.

Before the storm arrives, please:

• Secure loose materials, tools, dumpsters, and equipment that could shift or become airborne.
• Check scaffolding, fencing, sidewalk protection, signs, and temporary structures. Secure or remove loose tarps and sheeting.
• Inspect roofs and elevated work areas for materials that could fall or blow into public areas.
• Protect electrical equipment and cords from rain and flooding.
• Check drainage and take steps to prevent water from collecting at excavations or spilling onto sidewalks.
• Keep sidewalks, exits, and other paths of egress clear and safe.
• Review the forecast with your crews and suspend outdoor work when conditions make it unsafe.

Due to the severity of the projected storm, no after-hours permits will be issued from Friday, September 25 through Sunday, September 27, for exterior work. 

After the storm, ISD is instructing that all sites are inspected for damage before work resumes. Any scaffolding and excavations affected by rain or flooding should be inspected before workers use or enter them. OSHA requires excavation inspections after rainstorms and restricts work on scaffolds during storms or high winds unless specified safety conditions are met.

The City has been working to develop and implement climate resilience projects to address coastal flooding, stormwater management, and extreme heat. Recently, the City completed coastal resilience plans for all 47-miles of Boston’s coastlines and has moved into implementation of critical projects across neighborhoods.

Governor Healey Opens Applications for $1M in Cell Phone-Free Schools Grants

Governor Healey Opens Applications for $1M in Cell Phone-Free Schools Grants

 Funding will help schools reduce distractions and create environments where students can focus on learning

EVERETT – The Healey-Driscoll Administration today announced that applications are now open for $1 million in competitive Cell Phone-Free Schools grants to help Massachusetts schools reduce student cell phone use and create learning environments where students can focus on academics, connect with their peers and engage more fully in their school communities. 

Schools and districts can use the funding to develop and implement cell phone policies, provide training for educators and staff, and purchase equipment needed to put those policies into practice. Applications are due October 21.

“Cell phones and social media have fundamentally changed the environment our kids are growing up in, and schools and families need the tools to respond,” said Governor Maura Healey. “We want our students focused on learning, building relationships and being present with their teachers and classmates. These grants will help more schools reduce distractions and create healthier learning environments where kids can focus and thrive.” 

 

“Schools across Massachusetts are already taking steps to reduce cell phone distractions and give students more opportunities to be present and engaged during the school day,” said Lieutenant Governor Kim Driscoll. “This funding will help more school communities build on that momentum and put policies into place that work for their students, educators and families. We want to give schools the support they need to make these changes successfully and in cooperation with their school community.” 

 

The $1 million in Cell Phone-Free Schools grants is part of $4.5 million in state-funded Student Support and Wellbeing Systems competitive grants focused on creating safe and supportive learning environments for students. 

 

The grants build on work already underway across Massachusetts to help schools address cell phone use. During the 2023-2024 school year, DESE awarded nearly $1.3 million to 77 districts through a one-year pilot supporting local efforts to address cell phones and other electronic devices in schools. Districts used that funding to review and update policies, communicate with students and families, and purchase resources such as phone pouches and charging stations. 

 

“Students and teachers deserve environments where the focus is on learning — not constant distractions and notifications. The Healey-Driscoll Administration is providing important support to schools working to create stronger, more engaging learning environments, and my office is complementing that work through our own Phone-Free Support Grant program. Together, these efforts give schools the support they need to create learning environments where students can be focused, present, and ready to learn,” said Attorney General Andrea Joy Campbell. 

 

In 2025, the Attorney general’s office, with support from DESE, released Cell Phones and Social Media in Schools: A Toolkit for School Leaders and Communities. The toolkit provides model policies and other resources to help school communities develop approaches to student cell phone use, establish shared expectations and strengthen digital media literacy. The Attorney General’s Office also launched a separate $500,000 Phone-Free Schools Support Grant this year to support schools implementing bell-to-bell cell phone policies. 

“Our educators work every day to create meaningful and engaging learning experiences for students, and we want to create the conditions that allow that work to have the greatest impact,” said Education Secretary Steve Zrike. “Reducing cell phone distractions is one concrete way schools can help students be more present for the learning, relationships and experiences happening around them. These grants will give schools additional tools to support educators and strengthen teaching and learning.” 

“We want to set our students and teachers up for success, and this grant is one piece of that,” said Elementary and Secondary Education Commissioner Pedro Martinez. “As we work to make classes more relevant and engaging, we want students to focus on the amazing work happening inside their classroom.” 

DESE has encouraged districts to examine the impact of student cell phone use and develop policies that reflect the needs of their students, educators and families. The new grant program will build on that work by helping schools move from planning to implementation and by giving them resources to make those changes successful. 

“Research has shown a multitude of benefits to student’s social skills, academic performance, mental health, and safety after implementing cell phone restrictions in their schools,” said Senator Jason Lewis, Senate Chair of the Joint Committee on Education. “The Legislature funded these grants to assist more schools in their transition to cell phone-free environments to support students and protect them from the damaging and distracting effects of cell phones.”

The Cell Phone-Free Schools grants are part of the Healey-Driscoll Administration’s broader work to protect young people from the harmful and addictive impacts of technology and social media. Governor Healey has proposed legislation that would require stronger protections for young people on social media, including age assurance and default limits on addictive features, notifications and access during school and overnight hours. The Governor has also supported a statewide bell-to-bell restriction on cell phone use in schools and has worked with education leaders to give schools and families more tools to help young people develop healthier relationships with technology.

Governor Healey Secures $153 Million in Federal Transportation Funding

Governor Healey Secures $153 Million in Federal Transportation Funding

 Funding will support roads, bridges, walking and biking infrastructure and MBTA projects across Massachusetts

BOSTON – Governor Maura Healey today announced that Massachusetts has successfully secured $153 million in additional federal transportation funding for 16 MassDOT and MBTA projects across the state. 

The funding comes through the Federal Highway Administration’s annual redistribution process, which makes federal transportation dollars available when other states and programs are unable to use them. Because Massachusetts had eligible projects ready to move forward, MassDOT and the MBTA were able to compete for these additional dollars and bring them to Massachusetts.

“We go after every federal dollar available because every dollar we bring back to Massachusetts means we can do more for our residents and communities,” said Governor Maura Healey. “This $153 million will help us improve roads and bridges, make it safer to walk and bike, and invest in public transportation across the state. We’re going to keep competing for these opportunities and putting every available resource to work to make transportation better in Massachusetts.”

“Bringing more federal dollars to Massachusetts allows us to move important projects forward faster while getting more out of our state investments,” said Lieutenant Governor Kim Driscoll. “These projects will improve the infrastructure people rely on every day in communities across the state, from local roads and bridges to walking and biking connections and public transit.”

Each year, the Federal Highway Administration redistributes funding that other states and federal programs are unable to use before the end of the federal fiscal year. States that have eligible projects ready to advance can request that funding. MassDOT and the MBTA worked together to identify projects that could meet federal requirements and put the additional funding to use quickly.

“The Healey-Driscoll Administration has challenged us to pursue every federal dollar available, making state funds go further. Ensuring we have eligible projects at MassDOT and the MBTA is helping us to secure the federal dollars available through redistribution so we can deliver critical projects that make meaningful improvements to our transportation system,” said Interim Transportation Secretary and General Manager Phillip Eng. “Our teams across agencies worked together to make sure we were well positioned and successful for redistribution. This is exactly the kind of collaboration and strategic approach that allows us to deliver a multimodal transportation network across the entire Commonwealth that works for our residents, visitors and businesses.  

The funding will support investments in the following projects:

MassDOT Projects

• Provincetown ($10.7 million): Corridor improvements and related work on Shank Painter Road from Route 6 to Bradford Street. (Project ID 608744)
• Work on this project consists of roadway reconstruction, sidewalk construction and reconstruction, drainage upgrades, pavement markings and signs along Shank Painter Road. Geometric improvements are proposed at the Route 6/Shank Painter Road intersection. Also included in the project is a road diet on Route 6 from Shank Painter Road to the National Seashore, which will allow for improved bicycle and pedestrian accommodation in the form of a shared use path.
• Marion ($4.74 million): Phase 1 construction of a shared-use path from the Marion-Mattapoisett town line to Point Road. (Project ID 607979)
• Work on this project includes construction of a shared use path in the Town of Marion from the Mattapoisett/Marion Town line to Point Road. This section of path is also part of a larger network immediately connecting Mattapoisett to Wareham, and on a larger scale a part of the Bay State Greenway priority 100 miles and the SouthCoast Bikeway.
• Southbridge ($8.99 million): Replacement of the Mill Street bridges over McKinstry Brook and the Quinebaug River.(Project ID 608862)
• The work under this contract consists of replacing the superstructure of the bridge carrying Mill Street over the Quinebaug River (S-21-003) and the reconstruction of the bridge carrying Mill Street over McKinstry Brook (S-21-009) and their approaches. The project limits are from the intersections of Mill Street and High Street to Mill Street and River Street. The work on the approaches includes the construction of new cement concrete pedestrian curb ramps, sidewalks, and driveways, hot mix asphalt driveways, granite curb, minor drainage and utility alterations, tree trimming, removal and protection, traffic signal upgrades, pavement markings and signing, and other incidental work.
• Belmont ($23.44 million): Phase 1 of the Belmont Community Path, a component of the Massachusetts Central Rail Trail. (Project ID 609204)
• The Belmont leg of the Massachusetts Central Rail Trail (MCRT) will be implemented in a two-phase approach, with Phase 1 being the stretch between the Fitchburg Cutoff Path at the Cambridge line to Belmont Center, and Phase 2 being Belmont Center to the Waltham line. The proposed project constitutes Phase 1 of the Belmont leg of the MCRT, and will be an off-road, shared-use path, which includes a 0.18 mile north-south connector between communities and the town’s many resources and amenities, which will provide safe, non-vehicular access under the active Fitchburg rail line to and through the high school campus (soon to be middle/high) and an east-west facility that would extend 1.11 miles from the Clark Street Bridge through town center to Brighton Street, connecting the Town’s center to the existing Fitchburg cut-off path, which leads to the Alewife Station, the Minuteman Bikeway and other destinations Cambridge, Boston and beyond.
• Lee ($5.44 million): Resurfacing and related work on Route 20. (Project ID 610728)
• The limits of this project will begin at MM 20.28 (just west of the bridge over Greenwater Brook) and end at the Lee/Becket line (MM 23.15).
• Mattapoisett, Marion and Wareham ($14.71 million): Resurfacing and related work on I-195. (Project ID 612061)
• The project resurfaces and preserves pavement along I-195 through the municipalities of Mattapoisett, Marion, and Warham from Mile Markers 29.2 to 39.7.
• Dighton ($2.17 million): Replacement of the Pleasant Street bridge over Muddy Cove. (Project ID 613636)
• The work under this Contract includes the replacement of Bridge No. D-08-002 Pleasant Street over Muddy Cove Brook. The work includes removing bridge superstructure; removing and disposing of the existing bridge abutments, and piles; installing permanent sheeting; installing steel H-piles, abutments, wingwalls, NEXT F bridge superstructure, approach slabs, and highway guardrail transitions; and installing metal bridge rail. The work also includes temporary water control, excavation, riprap slope protection, full depth roadway construction, sidewalk construction, milling and overlay, pavement markings, and utility relocation, the provisions of safety controls and signing for construction operations, and other incidental items included in the contract documents.
• Braintree ($3.69 million): Reconstruction of Allen Street. (Project ID 613727)
• This project will reconstruct Allen Street in Braintree, converting the two-way to a one-way and providing a new shared use path.
• Brockton ($3.14 million): Intersection improvements at Centre Street/Route 123 and Plymouth Street. (Project ID 609052)
• The proposed work includes reconstruction of the subject intersection, likely with new traffic signal operation. Project limits on Centre Street will begin approximately 500' west of the intersection to approximately 250-300' east of the intersection. Work will also be completed approximately 300' north and south on Plymouth Street. Work will include relocation of curbing, construction of ADA compliant sidewalks and pedestrian ramps within the project limits new signing and striping, some combination of full depth reconstruction and milling and overlay, new traffic and pedestrian signals, drainage and lighting.
• Shrewsbury and Northborough ($9.8 million): Rehabilitation and widening of Route 20 from Route 9 to South Street. (Project ID 610825)
• The Scope of Work shall include corridor improvements on Route 20 from the South Street/Green Street intersection in Shrewsbury to just past the Valente Drive intersection in Northborough. The work will include roadway widening for an additional eastbound travel lane, turn lanes, sidewalks, shared use paths and grass buffers. The work also includes construction of a center median, two roundabouts, reconstruction of the existing signal at the Green Street/South Street intersection, retaining walls, storm water Best Management Practices where feasible and related work.
• Medford ($7.27 million): Intersection improvements along Main Street at South Street, the Mystic Valley Parkway ramps and Mystic Avenue. (Project ID 611974)
• The proposed project consists of intersection improvements on Main Street at South Street, Mystic Valley Parkway (Route 16) Ramps, and Mystic Avenue with traffic signals and signalized crosswalks. Main Street at Emerson Street also will be receiving a signalized crosswalk. Bicycle accommodations will be provided with a buffered separated bike lane under the Mystic Valley Parkway overpass and continue with buffered separated bicycle lanes through the Mystic Avenue intersection. New compliant ADA sidewalks and pedestrian ramps will be installed on both sides of Main Street.
• Holyoke and West Springfield ($2.27 million): Pavement preservation and related work on I-91. (Project ID 613314)
• Project preserves pavement and performance related preservation work along I-91 through the municipalities of Holyoke and West Springfield from Mile Markers 10.5 to 14.9.
• Becket ($4.27 million): Ledge and embankment stabilization along Route 8. (Project ID 609506)
• Throughout the District, ledge out-croppings and exposed rock faces are adjacent to State Highway at various locations. Some of these areas were created when the highways were originally built, reconstructed or widened; or when natural events, such as Tropical Storm Irene, exposed natural rock slopes to additional weathering and erosion. Many of these locations pose a potential safety hazard from falling rock or slope failure, which could injure highway users or shut down some sections of State Highway for an extended time. Highway closures at many of these locations would result in lengthy detours, affecting regional commuting and commerce. This proposed contract would design site-specific improvements to address safety issues related to exposed or falling rock at these locations.

MBTA Projects 

• Boston ($32.64 million): Widett Layover Facility (Project ID S13532 |  MBTA CIP ID P0952)
• Construction of a new Regional Rail facility to meet the needs of Railroad Operations for mid-day and overnight storage, inspection, light maintenance, fueling, cleaning, and crew facilities. Includes a 6-track electrified layover facility to support battery-electric Regional Rail vehicles.
• Newton ($15 million): Newtonville Station. (Project ID S13533 | MBTA CIP ID P0170)
• Design and construction of a fully accessible Newtonville Regional Rail Station with 400 ft. high-level double-sided platforms. Includes up-and-over structure, stairs, elevators, wayfinding, and other improved amenities.
• Boston ($5.36 million): Fairmount Line infrastructure supporting decarbonized service. (Project ID S13534 | MBTA CIP ID P1315)
• Infrastructure upgrades to support decarbonized 20-minute service on the Fairmount Line, enhancing sustainability, frequency, and reliability.

The $153 million in redistributed federal funding builds on the Healey-Driscoll Administration’s broader commitment to making historic investments in transportation infrastructure and public transit. 

The additional federal funding builds on Governor Healey’s work to compete for federal transportation dollars and make historic investments in transportation across Massachusetts.

Since taking office, Governor Healey has made historic investments to make transportation safer, more reliable and more affordable. The Administration has advanced an $8 billion, 10-year transportation investment plan; increased Chapter 90 funding to a record $300 million a year; launched South Coast Rail; is advancing West-East Rail; and has made major investments to improve safety, reliability and affordability at the MBTA.

Governor Healey also secured more than $1 billion in federal funding to replace the Cape Cod Bridges and hundreds of millions of dollars for major rail projects, including the North Station Draw One Bridge replacement and improvements to the Haverhill Commuter Rail Line. These investments are creating jobs, strengthening communities and building the transportation system Massachusetts needs to grow and compete.

MAYOR MICHELLE WU OFFICIALLY LAUNCHES ANNUAL LEGACY BUSINESS AWARD NOMINATIONS

MAYOR MICHELLE WU OFFICIALLY LAUNCHES ANNUAL LEGACY BUSINESS AWARD NOMINATIONS  Residents are encouraged to nominate iconic, long-standing businesses located within the city by Friday, October 30, 2026

BOSTON -  Wednesday, September 23, 2026 - Mayor Michelle Wu today announced the launch of the nomination period for the fifth annual Legacy Business Awards. Nominations will be accepted through Friday, October 30, 2026. Residents are encouraged to nominate long standing businesses that have been located within the city of Boston for at least 10 years and contribute to the cultural, historical, and societal fabric of their community or neighborhood.  “Boston’s long-standing businesses are more than economic drivers–they are community anchors and neighborhood hubs,” said Mayor Michelle Wu. “Nominations are now open for the Legacy Awards, and we are excited to celebrate the fifth cohort of awardees. We encourage residents to nominate the local businesses that serve their communities every day and help make Boston a home for everyone.”  To nominate a business, residents can use the online form or call the Office of Small Business at 617-635-0355 for assistance. To date, 120 local businesses representing over 4,500 years of service to Boston’s neighborhoods have been honored through the Legacy Business Program. By recognizing and supporting legacy businesses on an annual basis, this program supports Mayor Wu’s vision for Boston being a family-friendly and vibrant city that creates more opportunities for residents to build generational wealth. “Legacy businesses are the true heartbeats of our communities,” said Interim Chief of Economic Opportunity and Inclusion Donald Wright. “They are far more than commercial storefronts. They are emotional anchors and living archives of our shared history. From the memories of shopping alongside a parent or grandparent to the pride of buying your very first item with your own money, these long-standing establishments hold generations of local life within their walls.”  After the nomination period closes, the Office of Small Business verifies eligibility for all nominees and submits a list of nominated, eligible businesses to the City Council. City Councilors then create a shortlist of potential awardees. Next, a committee—led by the Office of Small Business—will review this shortlist and submit a list of finalists to Mayor Wu. Selections are based on application scoring and community support. The committee ensures the list is representative of Boston by industry, neighborhood, gender, and race.   “Our office is committed to supporting our small businesses: start, grow, and stay in Boston,” said Aliesha Porcena, City of Boston Director of Small Business. “This program honors businesses, who have done just that and continue to be staples in our community. Our legacy businesses provide jobs, generate dollars for the local economy, and contribute to the vibrancy of Boston. Honoring businesses that have given our city, neighborhoods, and families so much does not get old, it gets more exciting each year.”  The City of Boston will recognize the 30 Legacy Business Award winners at a public awards ceremony in early June 2027. The Office of Small Business will provide awardees with a commercial lease toolkit, free legal consultation, support with succession planning, and other technical assistance related to the health and success of long-term businesses.  “We have been serving children and families in Boston for many years, and it meant a lot to know that our work and commitment to the community were recognized by the City,” said Cindy Liao, Center Director of 2026 Legacy Business Winner Little Panda Early Learning and Care Center. “After the news came out, many of our current and former parents saw that Little Panda had received the award and reached out right away to congratulate me. That was especially touching because these families have been such an important part of Little Panda over the years. It made me feel that this recognition was not only for us, but also for the families and community who have supported us along the way. The ceremony was a very special moment for us and made me proud of how far Little Panda has come. It also encouraged us to keep doing what we love—supporting children, families, and our community.” “We were both surprised and delighted to have been chosen for the Legacy Business Award,” said Lisa Weller, Owner of 2026 Legacy Business Winner Helen’s Leather Shop. “We have grown, evolved, and loved every minute of the past 53 years. The Legacy Business Awards gave us such a special evening to celebrate together and truly realize what my parents built.  Helen’s Leather was joyfully represented at the event by four generations, our manager for the past 45 years, and our best customer cowboy Rob, who has almost as many boots as we do! It was a night we’ll never forget.” The nomination form is available in English, Spanish, Haitian Creole, Simplified Chinese, Traditional Chinese, Vietnamese, Cape Verdean Creole, Portuguese, Somali, Russian, and French. Nominations are limited to one per resident. To learn more, visit the Legacy Business Program website.

Massachusetts Awards $11.5 Million in Tax Credits to Support Business Growth, Create 674 New Jobs

Massachusetts Awards $11.5 Million in Tax Credits to Support Business Growth, Create 674 New Jobs

 Projects will retain more than 1,000 existing jobs and spur more than $339 million in private investment across Massachusetts

BOSTON– The Healey-Driscoll Administration today announced that the Massachusetts Economic Assistance Coordinating Council (EACC) approved $11.5 million in tax credits for 10 business expansion projects expected to create 674 new jobs, retain 1,093 existing jobs and generate more than $339 million in private investment across Massachusetts.

The awards are made through the Economic Development Incentive Program (EDIP), which supports businesses that commit to creating jobs, retaining workers and making new investments in Massachusetts.

“Massachusetts businesses are growing, hiring and investing in communities across our state,” said Governor Maura Healey. “These awards will help create nearly 700 new jobs, retain more than 1,000 existing jobs and drive hundreds of millions of dollars in private investment. We are proud to support companies that are choosing Massachusetts to grow their businesses and create new opportunities for workers.”

 “These investments are supporting businesses and creating jobs in communities across Massachusetts, from Orange and Sunderland to New Bedford, Taunton and Lowell,” said Lieutenant Governor Kim Driscoll. “We’re partnering with companies that want to grow here, put people to work and strengthen local economies.”

“These companies are expanding the industries that will shape our economic future, including advanced manufacturing, robotics, defense, aerospace and critical materials,” said Economic Development Secretary Eric Paley. “Through EDIP, we are supporting ambitious projects that will build new facilities, expand production and create hundreds of jobs across Massachusetts.”

EDIP is administered by the Massachusetts Office of Business Development (MOBD) and designed to support business expansion and job creation by offering performance-based tax credits in exchange for commitments to create new jobs, retain existing employees, and invest capital. Nine of the projects approved are manufacturers and two are located in Gateway Cities.  

The EDIP certified projects approved during today’s meeting include: 

Rodney Hunt Inc. – Orange

Rodney Hunt Inc. plans to expand its water flow control equipment manufacturing by rehabilitating a 60,000-square-foot vacant facility and upgrading equipment to increase production capacity and meet growing demand. The company will also hire 20 new permanent fulltime employees. The EACC approved $200,000 in EDIP tax credits.

Reed Farm LLC – Sunderland

Reed Farm is a woman-led, vertically integrated poultry farm and processor that raises, processes, and distributes pasture-raised poultry while providing essential processing services to other Massachusetts producers. The farm is investing approximately $3.1 million to expand its poultry processing operations and create 10 new jobs. The EACC approved $100,000 in EDIP tax credits.

Foundation Alloy Technology Explorations Inc. - Woburn

Foundation Alloy is a manufacturing company that develops metal alloys and high-performance metal components for the automotive, tooling, and consumer goods sectors. Foundation Alloy plans to invest approximately $1.6 million in a new headquarters and manufacturing facility, creating 18 new full-time jobs by the end of 2027. The EACC approved $255,000 in EDIP tax credits.

WGI Inc. – Southwick

WGI, an 85-year-old family-owned aerospace company, will invest approximately $19 million in a new Southwick manufacturing and FAA-approved repair facility. The project will add specialized equipment, including a clean line, to expand production capacity and product offerings, and create 30 new jobs. The EACC approved $450,000 in EDIP tax credits.

Plumbers' Supply Company – New Bedford 

Plumbers’ Supply is a plumbing, heating & HVAC distribution business that is expanding its New Bedford distribution center by approximately 155,000 square feet to support continued growth, creating at least 25 new jobs while retaining approximately 262 existing positions in Massachusetts. The EACC approved $312,500 in EDIP tax credits.

Prysmian Cables and Systems Usa LLC - Taunton

Prysmian is a leading player in the energy transition and digital transformation sectors. The company is considering a $16.7 million manufacturing expansion in Taunton to increase specialty cable production, creating 20 new jobs. The EACC approved $250,000 in EDIP tax credits.

CPS Technologies Corp - Attleborough

CPS Technologies designs and manufactures advanced metal matrix composites and hermetic packaging solutions for aerospace, defense, power electronics, and industrial markets. CPS Technologies plans to invest $15 million to relocate and expand its manufacturing operations from Norton to an 80,000-square-foot facility in Attleboro, creating at least 30 new jobs while retaining 112 employees. The EACC approved $325,000 in EDIP tax credits.

Kopin Corporation - Westborough

Kopin Corporation creates application-specific optical systems which include proprietary high-performance microdisplays and optics for cross-industry customers. Kopin plans to invest more than $80 million to onshore critical microdisplay manufacturing, expanding infrastructure and equipment and creating up to 80 new jobs over five years. The EACC approved $1,460,000 in EDIP tax credits.

GreenSight Inc. – Location to be determined

Boston-based GreenSight develops commercial and defense robotics, mostly unmanned arial vehicles or drones. GreenSight plans to establish a 150,000-square-foot advanced defense drone manufacturing facility in a location to be determined to produce drones and critical components, expanding its existing Massachusetts R&D operations and hiring 321 additional employees. The EACC approved $6,420,000 in EDIP tax credits.

Phoenix Tailings Inc. – Burlington 

Phoenix Tailings, Inc. is a privately held, Massachusetts-founded U.S. advanced-materials manufacturer. Phoenix Tailings plans to invest approximately $16.7 million in its Burlington facility to expand rare-earth metal manufacturing capabilities for defense, aerospace, automotive, semiconductor, and clean-energy applications. The company will create 120 new jobs. The EACC approved $1,800,000 in EDIP tax credits.