Massachusetts Releases Full Investigating History Curriculum for Grades 3–7

Massachusetts Releases Full Investigating History Curriculum for Grades 3–7 Free, state-developed curriculum is already in use in more than 100 school districts EVERETT – The Healey-Driscoll Administration today announced the release of Investigating History, a free, comprehensive, social studies curriculum for grades 3–7 developed by the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE).    The 2026–2027 school year marks the first time the full suite of materials is available, including newly published courses for grades 3 and 4 and a revised grade 5 course. The curriculum was developed and refined over six years in collaboration with educators, curriculum developers and history scholars from across Massachusetts.   “Massachusetts has always understood that history and civic participation go hand in hand,” said Governor Maura Healey. “Investigating History gives students the knowledge and critical-thinking skills to understand the world around them and participate in their communities. I’m proud that Massachusetts educators helped develop this free curriculum and that it is already reaching students in more than 100 school districts.”   “Great social studies lessons do more than teach names and dates. They challenge students to ask questions, examine evidence and understand different perspectives,” said Lieutenant Governor Kim Driscoll. “Investigating History gives teachers engaging, high-quality materials to help students become informed and active members of their communities.”   “Making the complete Investigating History curriculum available gives educators a high-quality resource for building students’ knowledge and skills over multiple years,” said Education Secretary Steve Zrike. “That is exactly the kind of learning we want to encourage through our Vision of a Massachusetts Graduate—learning that builds critical thinking and problem-solving skills and supports our commitment to civic readiness.”    “As districts look for history and social science curricula that are aligned to Massachusetts standards, we’re pleased that many are already using Investigating History,” Elementary and Secondary Education Commissioner Pedro Martinez said. “This resource helps teachers make history education engaging and meaningful.”  Aligned with the state’s 2018 History and Social Science Framework, Investigating History uses questions, primary and secondary sources, maps, images and other materials to help students develop a deeper understanding of the past and present.   The curriculum includes local history and government, American history, world geography and ancient societies. More than 400 educators piloted the materials, which are now in use in more than 100 Massachusetts school districts. Recent revisions also strengthened access for all students, including multilingual learners.   The curriculum is available online at no cost to schools and districts. DESE also provides implementation resources and connects educators with professional development opportunities to help bring the curriculum into their classrooms.   More information about Investigating History is available at the link above.

Governor Healey Demands Trump Administration Extend Temporary Protected Status for Salvadorans

Governor Healey Demands Trump Administration Extend Temporary Protected Status for Salvadorans 

BOSTON – Today, Governor Maura Healey demanded that the Trump Administration extend Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for Salvadoran nationals currently living and working in the United States, which has been in place since 2001 but is set to expire on Wednesday. Governor Healey emphasized to Homeland Security Secretary Markwayne Mullin that Salvadoran TPS holders play an essential role in the United States economy and workforce. There are more than 170,000 Salvadoran TPS holders across the United States currently authorized to work through their TPS Status, including nearly 8,000 in Massachusetts.

“Salvadoran TPS holders have been making Massachusetts their home for more than 20 years, fleeing dangerous conditions caused by earthquakes and instability. They have opened businesses, bought homes and become a strong foundation of our workforce,” said Governor Healey. “The sudden loss of their legal status will have devastating consequences for these families and our economy, as we have already seen with other groups that have had their status taken away by this President. This is another cruel step from the Trump Administration that makes no sense, and it needs to be reversed immediately.”

Thousands of Salvadoran TPS holders are deeply embedded in industries that are essential to the Massachusetts economy, including healthcare, hospitality, landscaping, construction and food services. The loss of their work authorization would create significant workforce disruptions, place additional strain on employers already facing labor shortages, and impact businesses statewide.

Nationwide, TPS-eligible Salvadorans contribute $5.4 billion annually to the U.S. economy. They pay taxes, contribute to Social Security and Medicare, and spend their earnings in local businesses. Many are homeowners and parents of U.S.-citizen children. 

Governor Healey’s full letter is available here.

Governor Healey has been a strong advocate for TPS holders, including Haitians, Syrians, Hondurans, and Venezuelans, and the employers who rely on them. In January, she urged then-DHS Secretary Kristi Noem to extend Temporary Protected Status for Haitians, citing the critical role TPS holders play in Massachusetts' workforce, economy and health care system. She has also convened business leaders to discuss the impacts of President Trump's immigration policies, including the termination of TPS, on Massachusetts employers and the economy. Following the U.S. Supreme Court's decision allowing President Trump to end TPS for Haitians, she held a press conference with Attorney General Andrea Joy Campbell and community leaders to call for continued protections and called on Congress to pass legislation extending TPS for Haitians. The Healey-Driscoll Administration has also provided guidance and training to hundreds of employers and directed state agencies to support impacted workers, employers and communities with information and resources while continuing to urge federal action.

The United Way of Massachusetts Bay has activated the United Response Fund to support community organizations providing emergency assistance to families impacted by the expiration of TPS. Individuals and organizations interested in supporting these efforts can learn more at United Response Fund - United Way of Massachusetts Bay.

麻州長頒佈新「保護法」指南 醫護，雇主、執法人員及州政府機構須遵循

        (Boston Orange編譯)麻州州長希利（Maura Healey）今（8）日發布「保護法（PROTECTAct）」新指引，要求州政府、醫療機構、警察、雇主即日起配合執行，限制移民局（ICE）在非公共區逮捕移民，雇主接獲查驗通知也必須在48小時內書面告知員工。

        新指引明白規定，除非ICE人員持有法官簽發的令狀或面對立即性的健康或公共安全威脅，否則禁止在州政府建築物的非公共區域（如辦公區、員工通道）執行民事逮捕。

        麻州行政與財政辦公室（A&F）要求各機構盤點所屬物業，標示「非公共區域」，確保民眾使用服務時免於恐懼。醫療機構方面，衛生與公共服務部（EOHHS）及公共衛生部（DPH）發佈範本，規定醫院、社區健康中心、護理之家等場所須在10月4日前訂定內部應對流程，禁止沒有法院命令者在診療區、談話室等非公開空間執行移民法。

        警方訓練教材也同步更新，明確規定麻州警察不得過問或記錄民眾的移民身份，也不能動用州資源幫ICE抓人，更不得因移民拘留令而延長嫌犯羈押時間。

        雇主若接到ICE要查I-9員工身份文件的通知，必須在兩天內用員工看得懂的語言，個別書面通知每個人，貼公告不算數。勞工單位已提供通知範本供企業使用。

        麻州的這項法案被視為全美最嚴格的移民保護措施之一，州政府後續將持續輔導各單位落實。

Governor Healey Issues PROTECT Act Guidance for Health Care Providers, Employers, Law Enforcement and State Agencies

New resources provide clear guidance as additional protections against ICE tactics take effect

BOSTON- Governor Maura Healey today released new guidance and resources to implement the PROTECT Act, providing state government actors, health care providers, law enforcement agencies, and employers with clear direction as additional protections for residents under the law take effect.

The new guidance addresses protections for nonpublic areas of state property and in health care facilities, limits state and local law enforcement participation in civil immigration enforcement, and a new state law requirement for employers to notify workers in writing if ICE is going to inspect employee records.

“We passed the PROTECT Act to keep people safe from the dangerous tactics we are seeing from ICE here in Massachusetts and across the country,” said Governor Maura Healey. “This guidance makes clear what officials across state government, health care providers, law enforcement agencies, and employers need to know and do if they come across ICE. The PROTECT Act is about keeping our communities safe, protecting people’s rights and preserving the trust that allows people to seek care, report crimes and access the services they rely on.”

“The PROTECT Act gives communities across Massachusetts important protections, and this guidance helps turn those protections into practice,” said Lieutenant Governor Kim Driscoll. “Our employers, health care providers, law enforcement officers and state employees are on the front lines serving people every day. We want to make sure they have the clarity and support they need to do their jobs, keep people safe and continue providing the services that families and communities depend on.”

Governor Healey signed the PROTECT Act on August 5, establishing some of the strongest protections in the nation against abuses by federal immigration authorities. The law limits civil arrests in courthouses, schools, child care programs, nursing homes and nonpublic areas of health care facilities; restricts the use of state property for civil law enforcement; strictly limits state and local participation in civil immigration enforcement; strengthens protections for workers and families; and creates a state civil rights remedy for constitutional violations.

The guidance released today includes: 

State Property 

Governor Healey and the Executive Office for Administration and Finance (A&F) issued statewide guidelines limiting civil law enforcement activity in nonpublic areas of state property.

Under the guidelines, civil law enforcement activities, including civil arrests, are prohibited in designated nonpublic areas of state buildings and other property, unless they are required by state or federal law or to administer a state or federally supported program, authorized by a valid judicial warrant or judicial order, or necessary to address a specific and immediate health or safety threat. 

The Act applies broadly to any property owned, leased, occupied, controlled by or used for business by the Commonwealth, except courthouses. The guidelines instruct state agencies and other Commonwealth offices to review their property portfolio and designate areas as “nonpublic,” with the goal of preserving access to essential public service and the ability to conduct business with the state, without fear or intimidation. 

“We, as an administration, take the health and safety of residents of Massachusetts seriously,” said Administration and Finance Secretary Matthew J. Gorzkowicz. “No one should be afraid to access state buildings or the government services to which they are entitled. These guidelines will ensure people feel safe and protected by their state government.”

Health Care Facilities

The Executive Office of Health and Human Services (EOHHS), Department of Public Health (DPH), Department of Mental Health (DMH), Department of Developmental Services (DDS) and MassHealth developed guidance and a model policy to help health care providers implement new protections for nonpublic areas of their service sites. The law requires covered providers to establish policies for interactions with law enforcement engaged in civil law enforcement, including federal immigration enforcement, within 30 days of today.   

“No one should have to weigh their health and safety against the fear of immigration enforcement,” said Health and Human Services Secretary Kiame Mahaniah, MD, MBA. “The PROTECT Act will help residents maintain access to services they need, and ensure that places where people go for care will remain a trusted resource.”

The requirements apply to a broad range of providers, including hospitals, community health centers, clinics, mobile clinics, nursing and rest homes, emergency medical services, adult day health centers, substance use disorder treatment programs, certain physician and advanced practice nursing practices, providers serving people with intellectual or developmental disabilities, and certain MassHealth day habilitation providers.

Under the Act, certain covered providers must designate a point of contact for interactions with civil law enforcement, identify nonpublic areas where people receive care or discuss protected health information, or that are otherwise not open to the public, and establish procedures so staff, volunteers, and administrators know how to respond to requests from civil law enforcement. Civil arrests are not allowed in those designated nonpublic areas without a judicial warrant, except as otherwise required by law or to administer a state or federally supported program. Covered providers required to adopt a policy under the Act must do so by October 4. Today’s release of guidance and a model policy by the Healey-Driscoll Administrations is designed to assist in those efforts.

Law Enforcement and Civil Immigration Enforcement

The Executive Office of Public Safety and Security (EOPSS), Municipal Police Training Committee (MPTC) and Massachusetts Chiefs of Police Association (MCOPA) developed new roll call training materials to help police officers, dispatchers, records staff and other law enforcement personnel understand the PROTECT Act’s requirements and how they apply to day-to-day public safety work. 

Beginning today, the law limits when state and local law enforcement may inquire about, record, share or act on a person’s immigration or citizenship status. It also restricts the use of state and local personnel, facilities, equipment and other public resources to conduct or participate in federal civil immigration enforcement and prohibits holding someone past the time they are otherwise eligible for release based solely on an immigration detainer.

The guidance makes equally clear what the PROTECT Act does not change. Massachusetts law enforcement can continue investigating and enforcing criminal laws, making lawful arrests with a judicial warrant, conducting booking procedures, keeping the peace, responding to emergencies and working with federal, state and local partners on criminal investigations. 

If a crime or breach of the peace occurs during a federal civil immigration operation, officers may respond to address the public safety issue while remaining separate from the civil immigration enforcement activity itself.

Notice to Employees of I-9 Inspections

The Executive Office of Labor and Workforce Development (LWD), Office for Refugees and Immigrants (ORI) and Attorney General’s Office issued guidance to help Massachusetts employers comply with a new state law requirement to notify employees of upcoming inspections of I-9 employment eligibility records by ICE.

Under the PROTECT Act, Massachusetts employers must provide employees with written notice within 48 hours of receiving a Notice of Inspection from ICE for I-9 forms or other employment records, except where otherwise required by federal law. 

The Administration is also providing employers with a sample notice that can be used or modified to comply with the law. Notice must be provided individually to employees and should be provided in the employee’s primary language; posting a notice at the workplace alone does not satisfy the requirement.

“This guidance gives employers clear steps to follow while ensuring workers receive timely and accurate information,” said Secretary of Labor and Workforce Development Lauren Jones. “By making sure employers and employees are informed, we are strengthening workplace protections and helping employers across the state understand and meet their responsibilities under the PROTECT Act.”

Today’s guidance builds on guidance released by Governor Healey last month to help K-12 schools and child care programs implement the PROTECT Act. Those resources provided model policies and procedures for responding to civil law enforcement, reviewing requests for access, protecting confidential information and communicating with students and families.

Earlier this year, Governor Healey also signed Executive Order 650 to protect access to essential state services and issued statewide guidance to schools, child care providers, colleges and universities, health care facilities and places of worship on interacting with federal immigration enforcement.

The Healey-Driscoll Administration will continue working with state agencies, employers, health care providers, law enforcement and communities across Massachusetts to fully implement the PROTECT Act and ensure its protections are carried out effectively statewide.

波士頓勞工節大遊行 數千人上街頭呼籲問責億萬富翁

圖片來自臉書

圖片來自麻州州長推特‘。

     (Boston Orange編譯) 數以千計工會成員，民主黨政要及民眾，在9月7日勞工節這天，浩浩蕩蕩走上街頭遊行，高舉各種標語牌，從柯普利廣場（Copley Square）出發，沿路呼籲保護選舉，紓緩經濟，問責億萬富豪。

    勞工節這天，大波士頓勞工協會（Greater Boston Labor Council）以前每年都公園廣場酒店（Park Plaza Hotel）舉辦早餐會，為勞工伸張權益，最近這2年卻在勞資糾紛漸多的情況中，改成了遊行示威。

圖片來自波士頓市府 ，John Wilcox攝

    今年的波士頓勞工節大遊行，共有50多個本地工會參加，議題焦點包括安可波士頓港賭場（Encore Boston Harbor）1,300多名員工上週五開始罷工，要求比照區域飯店標準調薪；麻省總醫院布萊根醫療系統（Mass General Brigham, MGB）護理師工會的4,000多名護理師，7月發動7天罷工，合約談判卻迄未落幕。今年首度以獲認可談判團體身份參加，代表麻州7萬多名司機的「外送與網約車司機工會（App Drivers Union）」，預計本月下旬將與Uber和Lyft展開第三輪談判。

圖片來自波士頓市府 ，John Wilcox攝

    麻州護理師工會（Massachusetts Nurses Association）成員們這天還聚集在Clarendon 街200號貝恩資本（Bain Capital ）門外，藉以向MGB董事，既是億萬富豪，也是貝恩資本董事會主席的John Connaughton喊話。護理師公會主席Katie Murphy説，這遊行其實有著更宏大的使命意義，因為這其實是寡頭政商正在危及民主。

    多位民主黨重量級政治人物，這天都現身力挺工會成員，包括聯邦參議員伊莉莎白華倫（Elizabeth Warren）、馬基（Ed Markey）、聯邦眾議員Ayanna Pressley，麻州州長奚莉（Maura Healey），副州長Kim Driscoll，波士頓市長吳弭（Michelle Wu），麻州AFL-CIO會長Chrissy Lynch，大波士頓勞工協會會長Darlene Lombos等人。

剛贏得國會第六區民主黨初選的Dan Koh和波士頓市長吳弭，舊識喜相逢。
（圖片來自Dan Koh 臉書）

    奚莉州長發言時，砲轟共和黨籍州長候選人米諾格（Mike Minogue）是「脫節的億萬富豪」，質疑其政策損害勞工權益；米諾格則在社交媒體上祝賀勞工節，主張透過減少政府干預與發揮商業經驗來增加就業機會。

Dan Koh抓住機會和聯邦參議員Ed Markey交換意見。（圖片來自Dan Koh 臉書）

    吳弭市長在遊行後表示，這天是全國慶祝勞工貢獻的日子，在波士頓“我們每天都向勞工致敬”。她也藉此機會為她支持Daniel Lander挑戰在為麻州參議員William N. Brownsberger的行動喊話的「這遊行提醒了每個人，當我們組織起來，我們能送出更大的訊息，並為我們的未來而戰」。

“Workers Over Billionaires” March Draws Thousands to Boston on Labor Day

 

Greater Boston Labor Council’s second annual Labor Day Parade calls for election protections, economic relief, and billionaire accountability

BOSTON, MA – This Labor Day, thousands of union members, workers, and community allies marched through Boston behind a banner reading “Workers Over Billionaires.” They called for election protections, economic relief, and greater accountability for billionaires and corporations.

 

The event came amid significant worker organizing across Massachusetts. More than 1,300 Encore Boston Harbor workers began striking on Friday, September 4, for improved wages, benefits, and workplace protections. Earlier this summer, approximately 4,500 Brigham and Women’s Hospital nurses and Mass General Brigham Home Care clinicians participated in the largest coordinated strike of nurses and healthcare professionals in Massachusetts history.

“Despite rising costs and economic turmoil, worker organizing and worker actions are on the rise. Last July, 4,500 nurses at Mass General Brigham held the largest healthcare strike ever in Massachusetts! And last Friday, over 1,000 workers went on strike at Encore and are right now, as we speak, on the picket line,” said Darlene Lombos, President of the Greater Boston Labor Council.

“And for the first time in history, the App Drivers Union is now finally at the bargaining table, after years of hard work and dedication. In countless ways, workers are taking collective action to demand dignity at work and our fair share of an economy that’s enriching billionaires and tech giants at the expense of the people.”

“We march out of necessity, because organizing for our rights is a battle that never ends," said Tim Driscoll, President of the International Union of Bricklayers and Allied Craftworkers. “Rights aren’t handed down as a charity by the powerful. They’re fought and won by working people, standing together for the common good. And right here in Boston we’re witnessing what happens when local leaders join with organized labor to build this common good.”

 

“Every right that we have on the job that we celebrate on Labor Day: the eight-hour workday, the weekend, the overtime, health and safety standards, healthcare, retirement benefits, job security, you name it. It was won by American people just like you,” said Chrissy Lynch, President of the Massachusetts AFL-CIO. “We ask for the rules to keep our jobs and our data and our privacy safe from greedy tech corporations, and they say, ‘Oh, no, you’ll stifle competitiveness.’ We say you make Massachusetts competitive by prioritizing working-class people.”

 

"Workers' rights are human rights. Because when we fight for that worker, that worker represents a family in a community,” said Chaton Green, General Agent of the Greater Boston Building Trades Unions. “Unions raise the standard everywhere we go, whether it’s on a job site, in a community, or all across this whole city.”

 

“We’re here today organized for what workers have earned. They’ve earned power,” said U.S. Senator Ed Markey. “And even when times are tough, like right now, when our communities and our values are under attack, we stand up and fight back. America’s middle class was built by union families, like my family in Malden.”

   

“In Massachusetts, we are a union state, and I am a proud union, proud labor governor. That’s why I said we’re going to have PLAs on the biggest projects, because we know with PLAs the work is done. Highest quality, on time, ahead of schedule sometimes, and under budget. That’s a PLA,” said Massachusetts Governor Maura Healey. “We don’t have an economy without strong support for labor, and the workers out there delivering and driving it every single day.”

 

“Our service workers, our building trades, our electricians, our educators, our custodians, our drivers, our carpenters. There is nothing that labor cannot do. This city needs you,” said U.S. Congresswoman Ayanna Pressley. “This Commonwealth needs you. And no man, no self-proclaimed king, no nepo baby billionaire, no greedy fat cat — as long as I’m on the job — is going to stop you from getting what you deserve.”

 

“Today, we celebrate the power of the labor movement. Generations of courage and sacrifice and sheer grit that have given us so many of the protections we take for granted today. But we also gather here in historic space to remind ourselves and the whole world that the fight is still on,” said Boston Mayor Michelle Wu. “For housing affordability, for technology to serve people and not profits. For protections, immigrant neighbors, Black and brown workers, and all of our community members, all that is under attack right now. We stand together; we have each other’s backs.”

 

Massachusetts app-based drivers also achieved a historic organizing victory this year when the App Drivers Union was certified as the bargaining representative for nearly 70,000 Uber and Lyft drivers across the state.

 

As marchers gathered, the MGB Union Coalition rallied outside Bain Capital at 200 Clarendon Street. The coalition includes healthcare workers represented by the Massachusetts Nurses Association, 1199SEIU, the Committee of Interns and Residents, and the Doctors Council. Workers called attention to Bain Capital Billionaire Chair John Connaughton’s position on the Mass General Brigham Board as healthcare workers continue fighting for fair contracts and workplace protections.

 

“MGB clinicians are fighting for safe patient caseloads, reasonable productivity standards, and competitive wages so they can safely care for their patients in their homes,” said Katie Murphy, MNA President and Brigham and Women's Hospital Nurse. “What has MGB done since the strikes? The billionaires and multimillionaires who run MGB have repeatedly refused to negotiate. When working people stand together, we have the power to change the world for the better.”

 

Organized by the Greater Boston Labor Council (GBLC), Boston’s second annual Labor Day Parade replaced the city’s customary Labor Day Breakfast at the Park Plaza with a public celebration of working people and a demonstration of the labor movement’s commitment to protecting workers and democracy.

波士頓市議員 Ed Flynn 要求以「仇恨罪」調查南端 9旬華裔無故被人推倒在地事件

         （Boston Orange編譯）根據波士頓前鋒報（Boston Herald）報導，波士頓市議員愛德華費連（Ed Flynn）9 月 3 日發函給市長吳弭（Michelle Wu）及警察局局長Michael Cox，要求警方以「仇恨犯罪（Hate crime）」及侵犯民權罪，調查一名年近90華裔婦女在南端（South End）無故被人推倒在地事件。

        根據波士頓警方報告， 2026年9 月 2 日上午 9 點多，一名年近九旬的華裔婦女在西坎頓街（144 West Canton St.）過馬路時，突然有一名陌生人從背後把她推倒在地。所幸兩名年輕女路人及時把她扶了起來，才避免了老婦人躺在路中央可能遭過往車輛輾過的二次傷害。

        由於受害人只會說中文，市議員助理盧善柔透過電話協助翻譯。盧善柔表示，受害老婦人不認識攻擊者，但強烈感覺自己是因為種族而被針對。這名老婦人雙膝受傷，已被送往塔夫茨醫學中心（Tufts Medical Center）治療。

        市議員愛德華費連強調，從新冠病毒疫情以來，針對華裔居民的無故暴力事件不斷增加，市政府必須正視並採取「零容忍」態度。

        波士頓警查局根據目擊者影片，已逮捕疑涉毒品問題的38 歲無家可歸女子Kaitlyn Quick，並以「針對 60 歲以上或殘疾人士之傷害性襲擊與毆打罪」，把她移送法辦。

        愛德華費連議員持續施壓，要求市府民權小組等單位調查這事件背後的種族偏見動機。

麻州長Healey 譴責暴力襲擊俄亥俄州州長參選人Amy Acton行為

        (Boston Orange編譯)麻州州長奚莉（Maura Healey）9月6日發表聲明，譴責暴力襲擊俄亥俄州艾米·阿克頓（Amy Acton）博士的行為。

        Amy Acton是一位知名公共衛生專家，曾任俄亥俄州立大學公共衞生副教授，並曾擔任俄亥俄州衛生局局長，目前正在代表民主黨競選俄亥俄州州長。

        9月6日她到俄亥俄州Canfield 參加地方市集活動，競選拜票時，一名體型健壯男子突然衝向競選帳篷區，疑似直接朝向Amy Acton發動攻擊，幸而有保安人員和警察反應迅速，壓制並逮補了這名嫌犯，還從嫌犯身上搜出2把槍。

奚莉州長表示，「今天在俄亥俄州發生，針對艾米·阿克頓博士的暴力襲擊事件令人震驚，這是絕對讓人無法接受的行為。得知她安然無恙，我感到欣慰；我為傷者祈禱，希望他們早日康復，同時也感謝執法部門的迅速反應」。

Governor Healey Denounces Violent Attack Against Dr. Amy Acton in Ohio

BOSTON – Governor Maura Healey issued the following statement in response to an attempted act of violence against Dr. Amy Acton in Ohio:

“The violent attack against Dr. Amy Acton in Ohio today is terrifying and absolutely unacceptable. I’m relieved she is safe, praying for the recovery of those who were injured, and grateful to law enforcement for their swift response.

“Political violence has become far too common in our country, and all of us have a responsibility to reject it unequivocally. People enter public service because they want to serve their communities and make people’s lives better. No one should have to fear for their safety – or the safety of their loved ones and supporters – because they choose to serve.”

CITY OF BOSTON, MBTA RELEASE UPDATED DESIGN PROPOSAL FOR TRANSFORMATIVE BLUE HILL AVENUE PROJECT

CITY OF BOSTON, MBTA RELEASE UPDATED DESIGN PROPOSAL FOR TRANSFORMATIVE BLUE HILL AVENUE PROJECT

BOSTON - September 5, 2026 - The City of Boston and the MBTA shared an updated design for the Blue Hill Avenue project—a generational investment benefitting residents, visitors, workers, and businesses along one of Boston’s busiest corridors. 

The updated proposal reflects years of public engagement and incorporates significant changes in response to community feedback on the previous version of the design, including maintaining at least two general travel lanes in the majority of the corridor, a net increase in parking, including local parking solutions for high-demand areas like Morning Star Baptist Church. The updated design also reflects additional investment in Blue Hill Ave’s streetscape, with 6 miles of new sidewalks, 200 new accessible curb ramps, entirely new street lighting, and 200 new street trees.

“Community input has been critical to shaping a design that responds to the needs of the neighborhoods along Blue Hill Avenue. We look forward to getting the public’s input on these design details for a transformational investment in the beautification, safety and reliability of transportation, and infrastructure supporting small businesses along this key residential and commercial corridor,” said Mayor Michelle Wu. “We are grateful to our partners at the MBTA and to every resident, small business, and community member who has helped guide this process. This is a true once-in-a-generation opportunity to deliver on improvements that will enhance the quality of life and economic opportunity for our residents, small businesses, and community.”

“This important project in partnership with the City will deliver much-needed improvements to the residents and businesses along the Blue Hill Avenue corridor,” said Interim Secretary of Transportation and MBTA General Manager and CEO Phillip Eng. “We have heard from the public about how important improving safety, pedestrian crossings, traffic signals, parking, sidewalks, and much more are to this community, and we look forward to more public engagement at the upcoming Town Halls and Open Houses. The updated plan balances enhancements for roadway users, pedestrians, and buses, and we are dedicated to ensuring we continue to listen to the public’s feedback as the project progresses. We will continue to work with our City partners on this design so that Blue Hill Avenue becomes the safer, accessible, more comfortable corridor for all who live, work, and play here.”

The investment includes center-running bus-only lanes to improve travel times for the 40,000 daily bus riders who travel on Blue Hill Ave and ease congestion for all road users. The design also includes a two-way, sidewalk-level bike path on the west side of Blue Hill Ave, separated from traffic, to provide neighborhood cyclist connections to Franklin Park. 

At upcoming community meetings from September 10 through September 30, the City and MBTA officials will present the updated design, creating additional opportunities for residents, businesses, community organizations and elected officials to review the details, ask questions and continue shaping the project. 

The Blue Hill Avenue Investment will bring long-overdue improvements to the corridor between Mattapan Square and Grove Hall, which connects Mattapan, Dorchester, and Roxbury with Downtown Boston. More than half of all people traveling on Blue Hill Avenue throughout the day are bus riders, with 10 bus routes serving more than 40,000 riders and more than 20,000 people who start or end their bus trips in the corridor. To date, the project has secured more than $124 million in local, State and federal funding. Construction is anticipated to begin in 2028.

“No amount of planning or design can succeed without doing the groundwork and listening to the community. Blue Hill Avenue is one of the busiest corridors in our City, serving pedestrians, drivers, cyclists, transit riders, residents and local businesses every day,” said Chris Osgood, City of Boston Interim Chief of Streets. “The design reflects years of community feedback, and this next phase is an opportunity to get into the details, hear from residents again, and ensure this investment responds to the needs of everyone who relies on this vital corridor.”

The later design incorporates community feedback and reflects changes in three key areas: beautification, safety and reliability and support for small businesses. During the upcoming community meetings, City and MBTA officials will review the project block-by-block, answer questions and gather additional feedback from residents and stakeholders.

“This updated design for Blue Hill Ave represents a generational opportunity to finally deliver for our neighborhoods,” said State Representative Russell Holmes. “I’m thankful to Mayor Wu, General Manager Eng, and the teams at the City and MBTA for their work to incorporate residents’ feedback and refine the design. I look forward to the upcoming community meetings that will help make the design of this critical project even better.”

The redesign features for the Blue Hill Avenue Investment include:

• 6 Miles of Rebuilt New Sidewalks
• 200 New Street Trees
• New Sidewalk-Level Bike Path to Franklin Park
• All New Street Lights
• More Parking Spaces than Today
• Restored General Travel Lanes
• Fully Reconstructed Road
• Bus Lanes that Benefit 40,000 Riders 

Parking

• Updated design has more parking than what’s available today
• Bus stops are moved away from curbs
• Use of rush hour regulations balances parking and travel lane needs
• Unique solutions at high-use locations, such as Happy Supermarket, Morning Star Baptist Church, Mattapan Square, and Mother Caroline Academy

Traffic Flow

• More than 70% of the corridor will have 2+ general travel lanes in each direction
• Some areas with overall low traffic volume have only 1 general travel lane while preserving space for the tree-planted center median, turning lanes, and/or parking

Bus Stops

• Center-running bus lanes will provide a 10-15 min reduction in travel time for the 28 bus between Mattapan Square and Grove Hall
• Additional benefits for people taking the 22, 29, 31 & other buses. 

Pedestrian Safety

• The project includes a complete sidewalk reconstruction along the entire corridor, with nearly 200 new accessible curb ramps
• It adds 19 new signals for more frequent opportunities for pedestrians to safely cross, minimizing crossing time for safety and traffic flow

Streetscape

• Nearly 200 new trees will provide shade, cooling, and cleaner air
• All new lighting will make sidewalks brighter and safer

Bike Improvements

• Shared-use, sidewalk-level walking & biking path along Franklin Park
• Two-way, sidewalk-level bike path from American Legion Highway to Woodhaven St on west side

Next steps

Upcoming community meetings will focus on the updated, block-by-block design. Participants will be able to provide feedback on local conditions, including parking, travel lanes, bus stops, pedestrian crossings, streetscape improvements and business access.

Additional information on meeting dates, locations and materials will be shared by the City and the MBTA’s website. The roll plan can be found here.

麻州發現第六宗人類感染西尼羅病毒案例

State Health Officials Announce Season’s Sixth Human Case of West Nile Virus in Massachusetts    WNV risk levels high in 11 communities BOSTON (September 4, 2026) – The Massachusetts Department of Public Health (DPH) today announced the sixth human case of West Nile virus (WNV) in Massachusetts this year, in a man in his 70s who was most likely exposed in a part of Suffolk County outside of Boston. As a result of this additional case, risk levels have been elevated to high in Chelsea, Malden, Revere, and Winthrop.   “As we go into the holiday weekend, it is easy to think of backyards, barbeques, and fun. I also want people to think about mosquitoes,” said Public Health Commissioner Robbie Goldstein, MD, PhD. “This is the time of year when people get exposed to the West Nile virus and Eastern Equine Encephalitis. When you are outside, remember to use mosquito repellent, wear clothing to reduce exposed skin, and empty anything that may be collecting water outside your home to reduce your risk of mosquito bites.”   The first WNV-positive mosquitoes in the state this season were announced on June 16. So far, there have been 273 WNV-positive mosquito samples detected this year from Barnstable, Berkshire, Bristol, Dukes, Essex, Franklin, Hampden, Hampshire, Middlesex, Norfolk, Plymouth, Suffolk, and Worcester counties. Eastern equine encephalitis (EEE) has been detected in 13 mosquito samples. No human or animal cases of EEE infection have been reported so far this year.   The risk for WNV is now high in 11 municipalities: Boston, Brookline, Cambridge, Everett, Newton, Somerville, and Watertown, and moderate in 250 cities and towns in Barnstable, Berkshire, Bristol, Essex, Franklin, Hampden, Hampshire, Middlesex, Norfolk, Plymouth, Suffolk, and Worcester counties.   People have an important role to play in protecting themselves and their loved ones from illnesses caused by mosquitoes.   Avoid Mosquito Bites Apply Insect Repellent when Outdoors. Use a repellent with an EPA-registered ingredient, such as DEET (N,N-diethyl-m-toluamide), permethrin, picaridin (KBR 3023), or oil of lemon eucalyptus (p-menthane-3,8-diol (PMD) or IR3535) according to the instructions on the product label. DEET products should not be used on infants under two months of age and should be used in concentrations of 30 percent or less on older children. Oil of lemon eucalyptus should not be used on children under three years of age.   Be Aware of Peak Mosquito Hours. The hours from dusk to dawn are peak biting times for many mosquitoes. Consider rescheduling outdoor activities that occur during evening or early morning in areas of high risk.   Clothing Can Help Reduce Mosquito Bites. Wearing long sleeves, long pants and socks when outdoors will help keep mosquitoes away from your skin.   Mosquito-Proof Your Home Drain Standing Water. Mosquitoes lay their eggs in standing water. Limit the number of places around your home for mosquitoes to breed by draining or discarding items that hold water. Check rain gutters and drains. Empty unused flowerpots and wading pools and change the water in birdbaths frequently.   Install or Repair Screens. Keep mosquitoes outside by having tightly fitting screens on all windows and doors.   Protect Your Animals Animal owners should reduce potential mosquito breeding sites on their property by eliminating standing water from containers such as buckets, tires, and wading pools – especially after heavy rains. Water troughs provide excellent mosquito breeding habitats and should be flushed out to reduce mosquitoes near paddock areas. Horse owners should keep horses in indoor stalls at night to reduce their risk of exposure to mosquitoes. Owners should also speak with their veterinarian about mosquito repellents approved for use in animals and vaccinations to prevent West Nile virus (WNV) and EEE. If an animal is suspected of having WNV or EEE, owners are required to report to the Department of Agricultural Resources, Division of Animal Health by calling 617-626-1795, and to the Department of Public Health by calling 617-983-6800.   Learn more about mosquito-borne diseases, including all WNV- and EEE-positive results on DPH’s Arbovirus Surveillance Information page, which is updated daily, or by calling the DPH Division of Epidemiology at 617-983-6800.

Governor Healey Breaks Ground on North Station Draw One Bridge Replacement

Governor Healey Breaks Ground on North Station Draw One Bridge Replacement

Major MBTA investment will improve safety and reliability, expand rail capacity and create more than 15,000 jobs

Photo by Chutze Chou

BOSTON – Governor Maura Healey today joined Interim Transportation Secretary and MBTA General Manager and CEO Phillip Eng, labor leaders and local officials to break ground on the North Station Draw One Bridge Replacement Project, one of the most important rail infrastructure projects in Massachusetts history.

Photo by Chutze Chou

The project will replace nearly century-old rail infrastructure over the Charles River, increase the number of tracks and make critical track and signal improvements along the northside corridor. The project will more than 15,000 jobs and improve service for millions of MBTA Commuter Rail and Amtrak passengers each year.

Photo by Chutze Chou

“This is what it looks like when we invest in Massachusetts – thousands of good jobs, better and more reliable transportation, and infrastructure that will serve people and our economy for generations,” said Governor Maura Healey. “Draw One is nearly 100 years old and one of the most important connections in our rail system. We fought hard to win the federal funding, brought labor and industry together, and now we’re getting to work. This project is going to make a real difference for riders, workers and communities across Massachusetts.”

Photo by Chutze Chou

“Thousands of people rely on these tracks every day to get to work, school, appointments and home to their families,” said Lieutenant Governor Kim Driscoll. “This project is about making those trips safer and more reliable while creating thousands of good jobs and building the transportation system Massachusetts needs to compete and grow. It’s a major investment in the communities north of Boston and in the future of our state.”

Photo by Chutze Chou

“Under the leadership of the Healey-Driscoll Administration, we are delivering long needed infrastructure projects that are essential to ensuring our transit system delivers for generations to come. The North Station Draw 1 Bridge project is another commitment fulfilled as we begin the $1.2 billion replacement of this nearly century old facility carrying all of our commuter rail lines to the north,” said Interim Secretary of Transportation and MBTA General Manager and CEO Phillip Eng. “As this Administration is focused on pursuing every federal dollar available, I’m proud that we were able to successfully secure federal dollars that made our state dollars that the Legislature continues to support go further.  This project is just another step toward Regional Rail and offering the public more reliable and frequent service.  By expediting the delivery of this design-build contract, we are creating good paying and skilled labor jobs during construction. We are also facilitating long term economic growth, access to jobs, and housing for the communities and the public with improved service along these commuter rail lines.  Even though this is just the start of work, I’m proud of the workforce both at the T and in our industry for serving the public and demonstrating our ability to deliver major infrastructure projects that we all can be proud of.” 

The North Station Draw One Bridge carries MBTA Commuter Rail service on the Haverhill, Lowell, Newburyport/Rockport and Fitchburg lines, as well as Amtrak Downeaster trains. More than 11 million passengers travel across the bridge each year.

“The North Station Draw One Bridge serves as a vital artery for Commuter Rail riders from across the North Shore, and its replacement will keep riders safe and service running efficiently,” said Senator Brendan Crighton. “Thank you to the Healey-Driscoll Administration for your leadership on this essential infrastructure project that will continue to make rail transit a strong and reliable option for riders throughout the Commonwealth.”

“The North Station Draw One Bridge is a critical piece of our region’s transportation infrastructure, and today’s groundbreaking marks an important investment in the safety, reliability, and future of our public transit system,” said Senator Lydia Edwards, State Senator for the Third Suffolk District. “This project will improve service for thousands of Commuter Rail riders while strengthening connections throughout Greater Boston and beyond. I am deeply grateful to the Healey-Driscoll Administration, Secretary Eng and the MBTA, our federal, state, and local partners, labor partners, advocates, and everyone whose collaboration and commitment helped make this project possible.” 

“Replacing the North Station Draw One Bridge is a critical investment in the future of our transportation network,” said Representative James Arciero. “This project will improve reliability, increase rail capacity, and strengthen connections for commuters and passengers traveling throughout Greater Boston and across Northern New England. I’m proud to see this project move forward and look forward to the lasting benefits it will provide to riders and our Commonwealth.”

Built in 1931, the existing bridge carries four tracks across the Charles River. The replacement project will construct new vertical lift bridge structures capable of carrying six tracks. At North Station, two additional station tracks will be connected to the rail network, increasing the total number of tracks from 10 to 12 and providing additional capacity for future service.

The project will also replace existing bridge approaches, build a new control and maintenance facility and make approximately 1.5 miles of track and signal improvements north of the bridge. The MBTA has developed construction strategies to reduce the project timeline from an originally estimated eight years to approximately six and a half years, with completion expected in fall 2032.

Earlier this year, Governor Healey announced that the project will be delivered under a Project Labor Agreement with the Greater Boston Building Trades. The agreement establishes consistent wages, safety standards and working conditions, supports workforce stability and is designed to help ensure the highly complex project is delivered safely and efficiently. The project is expected to create approximately 15,600 jobs.

In September 2024, the MBTA secured $472.3 million from the U.S. Department of Transportation’s National Infrastructure Project Assistance, or MEGA, program to support the project. At the time, it was the largest federal grant award in MBTA history.

Since taking office, Governor Healey has made historic investments to improve transportation across Massachusetts and deliver safer, more reliable service for riders and drivers. The Healey-Driscoll Administration launched South Coast Rail, is advancing West-East Rail, secured more than $1 billion in federal funding to replace the Cape Cod Bridges and has won hundreds of millions of dollars for major MBTA projects, including the North Station Draw One Bridge. The administration is also investing in roads and bridges across the state, bringing the MBTA into a state of good repair and making transit more affordable for riders. Together, these investments are creating good jobs, strengthening communities and building the transportation system Massachusetts needs to compete and grow.