20年20億美元共蓋3316戶住宅 南波士頓Mary Ellen McCormack 今日Ａ樓破土

Mary Ellen McCormack第一期A樓破土動工。（周菊子攝）

             (Boston Orange 周菊子波士頓報導)波士頓市第一棟公屋，Mary Ellen McCormack的翻新擴建工程第一期，今（6月30）日在嘉賓雲集中破土，將於2026年建成94戶新的可負擔住宅，替代原有居屋。整個工程估計將耗資20億美元，持續20年直至2043年，共建成3,316戶住宅。

麻州州長Maura Healey強調州政府加倍努力支持建造房屋。（周菊子攝）

            Mary Ellen McCormack原名「舊港 （Old Harbour）」，是建於1930-1938年代，共有35棟樓，1016戶住宅單位的公屋社區，數十年來，因缺乏維護資金，以年久失修。2015年Winn公司和社區居民商談重建，2017年波士頓房屋局(BHA)挑選了Winn來承建，2023年批准第一期工程，然後在2025年6月30日的今天，邀集政要，舉行破土動工儀式。

麻州州長Maura Healey。（周菊子攝）

            第一期A樓工程，預定2026年秋季竣工，共94個住宅單位，佔地112,000平方英尺，建築成本約6200萬元，會是一棟有37個一睡房，44個兩睡房，12個三睡房，1個四睡房的可負擔住宅大樓。

            整個第一期工程，包括預定2027年初開工，將建造492個住宅單位的Ｂ、Ｃ樓工程，將共建成1,310戶這宅單位，其中529戶將為替換原有的公屋單位，781戶是新建的中等收入及市場價單位，包括236戶深度可負擔單元，以及專為老年人設計的C1樓。

波士頓市長吳弭（左起），麻州州長長Maura Healey，
Winn Development 開發副總裁Andrew Colbert。（周菊子攝）

            第二期工程將建造2006個住宅單元。

            預定到2043年時，會建成總共3,316戶住宅單位，其中1016戶是取代舊有住宅，2300戶為新建的混合收入住宅及共管公寓。

波士頓房屋局局長Kenzie Bok這天感慨發言，還獲得生日祝福。（周菊子攝）

            麻州州長奚莉 （Maura Healey），副州長Kim Driscoll，波士頓市長吳弭（Ｍichelle Wu），聯邦眾議員Steven Lynch，麻州參議員Nick Collins，波士頓市議員愛德華費連(Ed Flynn)，波士頓市房屋局（BHA）局長白凱欣（kenzie Bok），AFL-CIO 住房投資信託 (HIT) 戰略計劃高級董事總經理Ted Chandler，美國銀行全球商務銀行東北區主管Miceal Chamberlain，Winn Development 開發副總裁Andrew Colbert等人，在破土動工儀式中一一致詞。

            麻州州長奚莉強調，州政府正在加倍努力，提供助力，希望每一個人都能擁有自己的家。

            波士頓市長吳弭藉「舊港」是波士頓市第一棟公屋，也是全美最早擁有熱水和洗衣設施，致力保障家庭尊嚴的住房社區之一做引言，指波士頓市有許多個全美第一，從來都引領風潮，不必他人指點的城市。她強調，每建造一棟建築，每增加一個單元，都是在為另一個家庭、另一代人投資。

            波士頓房屋局（BHA）行政主管 白凱欣（Kenzie Bok）在致詞中透露，當年她從哈佛大學畢業後，曾在BHA任職，那時就接觸過「舊港」這棟公屋事務，如今能參與推動翻修擴建，落實居民願景，很感欣慰，讚揚參與，促成這計劃的許多人。

           Mary Ellen McCormack公屋社區，是麻州近期規模最大的公屋工程，估計將耗資20億元，建3316戶住宅，持續20年才能完工。第一期工程總投資額為11億元，已獲得波士頓計劃局批准的施工計劃，成本約7.76億元，Ａ樓的建築成本為6200萬美元，其中包括800萬元將用於改善公共基礎設施，200萬元用於防洪減災。施工計劃的資金，共有至少9種來源，包括私人股本，聯邦低收入住房稅收抵免，聯邦能源稅收抵免，麻州房屋局提供第一抵押貸款，波士頓房屋局提供開發債券融資，BlueHub 資本提供貸款，AFL-CIO提供資金，麻州住房和移居社區廳透過LIHTC和住房穩定基金提供資源。

MAYOR MICHELLE WU JOINS FEDERAL AND STATE LEADERS TO CELEBRATE THE START OF CONSTRUCTION OF THE REDEVELOPMENT OF MARY ELLEN MCCORMACK PUBLIC HOUSING  Resident-led Task Force Gains Ownership Stake in Boston’s Oldest Public Housing Community

BOSTON - Tuesday, July 1, 2025 - Mayor Michelle Wu yesterday joined federal and state colleagues and residents of the Mary Ellen McCormack public housing community to celebrate the start of a long-awaited effort to redevelop Boston’s oldest public housing community, breaking ground on the first phase of construction for a new 3,300-unit mixed-income community in South Boston. Boston Mayor Michelle Wu, Massachusetts Governor Maura Healey, and Congressman Stephen Lynch joined residents and partners near the newly poured footings and foundations for the first apartment building of the project, known as Building A. The 112,000-square-foot structure will provide 94 modern apartments for low-income families currently living at the Mary Ellen McCormack community when it is ready for occupancy in the fall of 2026. “Mary Ellen McCormack has long been a cornerstone of the South Boston community, anchoring generations of families and helping define what public housing means in our City and country,” said Mayor Michelle Wu. “Not only are we celebrating the start of this project, but a historic and sustainable transformation led by and for the residents themselves. This project ensures that the residents who have built this incredible community will continue to shape its future for decades to come.”  The groundbreaking marks a milestone for residents as it triggered provisions for the Mary Ellen McCormack Task Force to gain an ownership stake in all 1,016 affordable housing apartments planned for the 30-acre site. The project also features the first-ever underground geothermal heating and cooling system installed in partnership by WinnCompanies and the Boston Housing Authority. “This is a proud moment for our partnership with Winn, the Boston Housing Authority and our elected representatives. The Task Force and the residents of this community have been preparing for this day for a long, long time. We have shaped every aspect of this first project from the playground equipment in Veterans Park to the layout of the apartments and the interior finishes. We cannot wait to see the smiles on residents’ faces when they move into their new, affordable homes,” said Carol Sullivan, executive director of the Mary Ellen McCormack Task Force. The redevelopment will replace all 1016 public housing units on site, and all current residents in good standing have a right to return to new apartments. Existing buildings will be demolished in phases as part of a complex relocation strategy operationalized to maximize existing households moving directly into new apartments. The tenant-paid portion of the rent will not change. WinnCompanies will pay for basic utilities for affordable households. The BHA will retain ownership of the land to preserve permanent affordability for low-income families while management, ownership and maintenance of the buildings will be provided by WinnCompanies. "The Mary Ellen McCormack Complex redevelopment is a great example of the impact our Affordable Homes Act is having to jumpstart construction of housing, rehabilitate public housing, and lower costs across the state,” said Massachusetts Governor Maura Healey. "Thanks to the leadership of WinnCompanies, thousands of Boston residents will soon have reasonably priced, modern homes in a vibrant community." “I am genuinely excited that we are at last breaking ground on the long-awaited redevelopment of Mary Ellen McCormack (MEM) Housing Complex,” said Congressman Stephen F. Lynch. “The vision for the redevelopment started decades ago at a meeting with U.S. Rep. Joe Moakley, Councilor Jim Kelly, Mayor Tom Menino, Rep. Jack Hart, Councilor Michael Flaherty, Boston Housing Authority Director Sandra Henriquez, and members of the MEM Tenant Task Force. That was a long time ago. When fully completed, this project will not only provide new and much-needed housing to residents of one of the oldest public housing developments in the United States, but it will also double the number of units on site, provide senior housing, and allow the MEM Task Force to gain an ownership stake in the new apartments. It will also include a new YMCA Community Center on the property, for which I helped secure $850,000 in Congressional Community Project Funding, named in honor of our friend, former BHA Administrator Bill McGonagle. I would like to thank Gilbert Winn and his colleagues at WinnCompanies for their leadership throughout this process, as well as my colleagues in Government - Governor Maura Healey, Secretary of Housing and Livable Communities Ed Augustus, Mayor Michelle Wu, BHA Administrator Kenzie Bok, State Senator Nick Collins, State Representative David Biele, City Councilor Ed Flynn, and City Councilor Erin Murphy.” In addition to the $62 million apartment building, construction of Building A features $8 million in public infrastructure improvements designed to strengthen climate resiliency and connect the community to the surrounding South Boston community. It will include a new Veterans Park with an accessible tot lot and splash pad, two-way, separated bike lane, reconfigured public streets and associated intersections with pedestrian enhancements, new street trees, planting areas and pedestrian zones. The construction of Building A will be performed under a Project Labor Agreement with significant goals for participation from local residents, low-income residents (known as Section 3 labor), and Minority and Women-Owned Business Enterprises (MWBEs). Targets are set to direct 40 percent of construction work hours to people of color, 25 percent of work hours for Section 3 laborers and 12 percent of hours for women. Additionally, there are goals for Minority Business Enterprises to receive at least 25 percent construction contract value and Women Business Enterprises at least 15 percent. The project has a goal to direct 51 percent of construction work hours to City of Boston residents. “For 90 years, the Boston Housing Authority has worked to create and provide quality affordable housing to Boston families. That work began right here at Mary-Ellen McCormack,” said BHA Administrator Kenzie Bok. “It is impossible to overstate how the legacy of this community, once called the Old Harbor Housing Project, has shaped the BHA, the South Boston neighborhood, the City of Boston and the thousands of families who have called this community home across generations. I’m excited to not only see that legacy secured through mixed-income redevelopment, but to know that Boston’s oldest public housing community will now be one of its greenest, safest, and most modern. Our residents deserve no less.” Built during the Great Depression and opened in 1938, the Mary Ellen McCormack is Boston’s first public housing development and one of the oldest in the United States, consisting of 1,016 deeply subsidized apartments across 35 buildings. Building A will feature 37 one-bedroom units, 44 two-bedroom units, 12 three-bedroom units and one four-bedroom unit. It is being built about 600 feet from the Andrew Square MBTA Red Line subway station, using an efficient U-shaped design with heights that step down from six to four stories. “This is an ambitious and inspired undertaking that has been discussed in Boston for decades. Now, after eight years of intensive planning and permitting, we are starting work on creating a Community of Opportunity that will serve as a national model for fostering long-term economic social and environmental success,” said WinnCompanies CEO Gilbert Winn. “Working households across the income spectrum will reap the benefits as we transform this 30-acre site, standing alongside our federal, state and city supporters, our nonprofit allies, and our partners at the Boston Housing Authority and the tenant-led Task Force.” The project meets the Massachusetts’ Specialized Energy Code as a future Passive House community. Its all-electric design includes a highly efficient geothermal heating and cooling system, consisting of several 800’ deep wells installed underground during the last few months. The building meets rigorous energy targets set by the Passive House Institute US, demonstrating 50 percent savings compared to an ASHRAE 90.1-2019 baseline building. "Rebuilding New England’s oldest public housing development ensures that our commitment to affordable housing in South Boston will endure for generations,” said Senator Nick Collins. “I am proud to have collaborated with my colleagues in supporting the Boston Housing Authority and WinnCompanies to turn this vision into reality." “After years of careful planning and engagement, this transformative project represents a substantial investment in affordable housing and workforce housing,” said Representative David Biele. "I have been proud to support this project with my colleagues in government in partnership with the residents of the Mary Ellen McCormack and its Task Force to make this groundbreaking a reality.” “Today, we celebrate years of tireless dedication from the Mary Ellen McCormack Task Force, neighborhood advocates, and community leaders resulting in the long-awaited groundbreaking of 1,016 new affordable housing units,” said City Councilor Ed Flynn.  “The much-needed redevelopment is critical to providing stable homes and improving the quality of life for all neighbors in public housing - including our seniors, persons with disabilities, veterans and young families - for generations to come. With infrastructure upgrades like the Bill McGonagle Community Center and a new Veterans Park, this new Mary Ellen McCormack community will be accessible to all of South Boston. I couldn't be more excited to see it through to completion in 2026.” Once Building A is completed, financing will be secured for, and construction will begin on Building B, which will offer 300 mixed-income apartments, and Building C, which will offer 196 mixed-income apartments, with 172 units reserved for seniors who are 62 or older with on-site resident services and programming. “MassHousing is excited to see ground broken for the first phase of the redevelopment of the Mary Ellen McCormack public housing community that is going to replace hundreds of obsolete and distressed units with brand new apartment homes for the residents there,” said MassHousing CEO Chrystal Kornegay. “This redevelopment effort by the BHA and WinnCompanies is not only going to replace the existing housing, but will add more than 2,200 additional new, mixed-income rental homes and revitalize this entire South Boston neighborhood.” The project was made possible thanks to a construction loan from the Bank of America; Federal Low Income Housing Tax Credit and Energy Tax Credit equity from Bank of America, a tax-exempt bridge loan and tax-exempt first mortgage loan from MassHousing; a subordinate loan from the Affordable Housing Trust Fund maintained by the Massachusetts Executive Office of Housing & Livable Communities; a subordinate loan from the BHA; and State Low Income Housing Tax Credit equity from Bank of America with a loan from BlueHub Capital. The Commonwealth and the City of Boston have also committed significant funding toward future buildings and infrastructure in the redevelopment. “At Bank of America, we know there is a direct link between secure, affordable housing and financial security,” said Miceal Chamberlain, President of Massachusetts for Bank of America. “Working together with WinnCompanies and Boston Housing Authority, we are creating the opportunity for many in our community to be set on a path to success.”  “The AFL-CIO Housing Investment Trust is proud to invest union pensions in the redevelopment of Mary Ellen McCormack,” said Chang Suh, CEO, AFL-CIO Housing Investment Trust. “We chose to work with WinnCompanies because they work side-by-side with their residents, and because of their commitment to hiring and training the next generation of union tradespeople.” In all, eight new residential buildings will be built over the course of a decade during Phase One of the redevelopment. There will be 1,310 apartments built, replacing 529 aging public housing apartments for BHA households and creating 781 additional apartment homes for middle income and market rate renters. Phase One construction will redevelop the northern 18 acres of the property, increasing open space by 73 percent with new pedestrian walking paths, bike infrastructure and gathering spaces. In addition, 33,000 square feet of ground-floor retail space will be created for local small businesses, including a possible grocery retailer. Twenty-five (25) percent of retail space will be offered at below-market leases. The new community will also include a new Community Center named after former BHA Administrator Bill McGonagle and operated in partnership with the Greater Boston YMCA.

Healey-Driscoll Administration Opens Application for $250,000 in STEM Education Grants

Healey-Driscoll Administration Opens Application for $250,000 in STEM Education Grants  

Grants support applied STEM learning experiences during MA STEM Week, October 20-24 

 
BOSTON – Today the Healey-Driscoll Administration announced Massachusetts STEM Week will take place October 20-24, 2025, building on the message launched last year, “STEM Starts Now.” STEM Week highlights the importance of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) education and careers, reinforcing the message that STEM learning can start at any age and plays a crucial role in shaping the future workforce of the state. 

 

To gear up for STEM Week, the administration also opened a request for proposals for up to $250,000 in STEM Design Challenge grants. Non-profit and public education organizations can apply for funding to develop and implement applied STEM learning experiences for students in pre-k through high school. Organizations can apply for grants by July 25, 2025 online. 

 

“Massachusetts leads the nation in education and innovation because we know success starts in our classrooms and with our young people. STEM Week is about inspiring curiosity, creativity, and confidence in young people across the state,” said Governor Maura Healey. “By investing in hands-on STEM experiences, we’re preparing students of all ages to solve problems, pursue new ideas, and lead the future economy.” 

 

“Whether it’s in a pre-K classroom or a high school robotics lab, STEM learning opens doors,” said Lieutenant Governor Kim Driscoll. "Through these Design Challenge Grants and our continued celebration of STEM Week, we’re making sure students in every community have the chance to see themselves in the STEM workforce and be part of the next generation of changemakers.” 

 

Through the STEM Design Challenge Grants, organizations can apply for awards of up to $75,000 to support multi-grade level, regional or statewide design challenge programs. Projects must engage students and teachers in at least two Workforce Skills Cabinet Blueprint Regions and offer week-long STEM design challenges paired with curricula, applied learning activities, and professional development for educators during the 2025 Massachusetts STEM Week.  

 

“STEM Week is a powerful reminder that learning doesn’t just happen in textbooks—it comes alive when students build, explore, and solve real-world problems. With the Design Challenge Grants we are creating the conditions that spark interest and build confidence in STEM, particularly for students who have traditionally been underrepresented in these fields,” saidEducation Secretary Dr. Patrick Tutwiler. “I encourage education organization and nonprofits to partner with us in showing students that ‘STEM Starts Now’ and apply to provide students with these opportunities.” 

 

STEM Design Challenge Grants aim to expand access to applied STEM curricula and increase participation among historically underrepresented populations in STEM fields, including students of color, girls, low-income and first-generation students, English learners, and students with disabilities. It also seeks to provide teachers with professional development and implementation resources, promote meaningful employer engagement in curriculum design and activities, and build a community of practice to share best practices and strengthen partnerships with employers that offer paid STEM internships to high school students. 

 

The STEM Design Challenge Grants are offered by the STEM Advisory Council, which was established to expand access to high-quality STEM education for students across Massachusetts, and is currently co-chaired by Lieutenant Governor Driscoll, U.S Congressman Jake Auchincloss and Chairman, President and CEO of Vertex Pharmaceuticals Dr. Jeffery Leiden. 

Massachusetts Legislature Passes Fiscal Year 2026 Budget to Safeguard Financial Health and Protect the State’s Most Vulnerable

Massachusetts Legislature Passes Fiscal Year 2026 Budget to Safeguard Financial Health and Protect the State’s Most Vulnerable

Legislature upholds ongoing fiscal responsibility, protects core services, and reinforces the state’s economic foundation in the face of federal uncertainty

 

(BOSTON—6/30/2025) The Massachusetts Legislature today enacted a $61.01 billion state budget for Fiscal Year 2026, a fiscally responsible plan that protects core services for the state’s most vulnerable residents, maintains critical investments, and positions the Commonwealth to confront the underlying budget challenges that are a result of federal funding uncertainty.

 

Approved on a bipartisan basis in both chambers, the budget neither raises taxes on residents and businesses nor spends dollars from the state’s stabilization fund—also known as the ‘Rainy Day Fund’—which currently stands at a historic $8.1 billion.

 

“This budget is a commitment to a more affordable, accessible, and inclusive Commonwealth. It responsibly manages taxpayer dollars while at the same time investing in the areas that matter most to every region of Massachusetts—housing, education, transportation, and protecting residents threatened by federal actions,” said Senate President Karen E. Spilka (D-Ashland). “No matter what part of our state you live in, this budget will expand opportunity, reduce everyday costs, and protect the services people rely on. I am deeply grateful to Chair Rodrigues, Vice Chair Comerford, Assistant Vice Chair Feeney, the committee, and all my Senate colleagues and staff for their thoughtful and collaborative work on this budget, as well as Speaker Mariano and our partners in the House who worked to get this done for Massachusetts.”

 

“This FY26 budget makes key investments that better support Massachusetts students and families, that increase access to affordable health care, and that provide for a safer and more reliable public transportation system – all without raising taxes. In a moment of incredible uncertainty at the federal level, this budget is proof that government can be both fiscally responsible and an agent of good, the kind of government that our residents deserve,” said House Speaker Ronald J. Mariano (D-Quincy). “I want to thank Chairman Michlewitz and my colleagues in the House, as well as our partners in the Senate, for working diligently to craft a budget that delivers for our constituents in a fiscally responsible manner.”

 

“The Fiscal Year 2026 budget agreement of $61.01 billion reached by the House and Senate supports the Commonwealth’s priorities by making highly impactful and transformative investments in education, transportation, local aid, health and human services, housing, public safety, and other vital areas. Our final figure is a smart reduction of almost $1 billion from the original House 1 number, laying a strong foundation for the many challenges that lie ahead. This budget is centered on the principle of fiscal responsibility, never more important with the continuing economic uncertainty at the federal level,” said Senator Michael J. Rodrigues (D–Westport), Chair of the Senate Committee on Ways and Means. “The budget reflects the Legislature’s deep and steadfast commitment towards achieving long-term sustainability while protecting core services for our most vulnerable populations. Thank you to Chair Michlewitz and the conference committee conferees, whose thoughtful input, advocacy, and collaboration resulted in the first on-time budget in 15 years. Thank you to both committee staffs, whose tireless work was largely responsible for producing this budget. Lastly, I would like to offer a heartfelt thank you to Senate President Spilka for placing her trust in me, and for her compassionate and resolute leadership as we work together to rebuild our economy and grow our state’s long-term economic health.”

 

“This final $61 billion Fiscal Year 2026 conference committee report will better position the Commonwealth for the challenges that lie ahead while also ensuring that we protect the programs that some of our most vulnerable populations rely on the most. Whether it is greater investments into programs like housing stability, food security, or early education the initiatives contained in this budget are a reflection of our shared values,” said Representative Aaron Michlewitz, Chair of the House Committee on Ways & Means (D-Boston). “By reinvesting in the people of the Commonwealth we will continue to assist those in need while making our economy more competitive and equitable for years to come. I want to thank Speaker Mariano for his leadership during this budget process, as well as my fellow House conferees, Representative Ferrante and Representative Smola. I also want to thank my counterparts in the Senate, specifically my co-chair Senator Rodrigues, for their partnership in bringing this proposal over the finish line.”

 

“As federal cuts continue to cause chaos and harm, the Legislature is delivering an on-time budget with record levels of investment in education, transportation, and local aid,” said Senator Jo Comerford (D-Northampton), Vice Chair of the Senate Committee on Ways and Means. “This regionally equitable budget supports our people, institutions, and communities at a critical time. Thank you to Senate President Karen Spilka, Ways and Means Chair Michael Rodrigues, fellow conferees, and our teams for this responsive budget.”

 

“At a time when our partnership with the federal government is uncertain, the Legislature has recommitted to the values that make Massachusetts a leader in the nation, producing a fiscally responsible and balanced budget that meets the moment,” saidRepresentative Ann-Margaret Ferrante, Vice Chair of the House Committee on Ways and Means (D-Gloucester). “With investments to strengthen public education and promote economic and workforce development, this budget reinforces our long-term competitiveness and works to make sure that Massachusetts remains a place where families and businesses can grow and thrive.”

 

“I am filled with optimism as I reflect on the outcome of the FY26 Budget conference committee. Through strong bipartisan collaboration, we in the House and Senate reached a consensus that not only addresses current needs but also sets a positive precedent for future partnerships. This final agreement reflects our shared commitment to the people of the Commonwealth and our ability to work together for the greater good” said Senator Patrick M. O’Connor (R-Weymouth), Ranking Member of the Senate Committee on Ways and Means. “The success of the FY26 budget underscores the incredible potential we unlock when we come together across party lines. We've made meaningful investments in critical areas, addressing urgent funding gaps and expanding access to higher education. These among other achievements demonstrate that balancing fiscal responsibility with community-focused priorities is not just possible, it is reality when collaboration leads the way. As the Ranking Minority Member of the Senate conferees, I am immensely proud of the cooperation and mutual respect that shaped our discussions.”

 

“This budget reflects the priorities of our communities and many advocates that have worked to make their voices heard throughout the process. Massachusetts remains focused on making improvements in education, public safety, human services and sending resources to programs that make a difference in the lives of children, families and seniors,” said State Representative Todd Smola, Ranking Member, Committee on Ways and Means (R-Warren). “We are mindful of the challenges that may be ahead, which is why we have settled on a balanced number. In the final analysis, we stay focused and committed to the greatest needs in our state so that we can prosper in the future.”

 

The Legislature’s final budget increases spending by $3.3 billion over Fiscal Year 2025, with the much of the increase attributed to MassHealth. Aligned with estimated tax revenue growth, the spending plan is based on a consensus tax revenue estimate of $41.214 billion for the coming fiscal year, a 2.25 per cent increase over the current fiscal year’s benchmark. Based on strong Fair Share surtax revenue collections to date, the Legislature’s budget includes $2.4 billion in available Fair Share generated revenues to support education and transportation investments, an increase of $1.1 billion over the last fiscal year.

 

The Legislature’s budget invests an additional $33 million in the Commonwealth Stabilization Fund. With the addition, the Fund’s balance would reach a historic high of $8.26 billion by the end of FY26. Since 2017, when the Fund’s balance was $1.3 billion, the Legislature has grown the account by 523 per cent as of FY24. 

Fair Share Investments

The Legislature’s budget includes $2.4 billion in Fair Share surtax spending, which is dedicated to  investments in public education and state transportation infrastructure.

 

Notable Fair Share education investments include:

 

• $360 million for the Commonwealth Cares for Children (C3) grant program, which is matched with $115 million in funds from the Early Education and Care Operational Grant Fund, for a total investment of $475 million. Despite the loss of federal funds after the COVID pandemic, the Commonwealth has maintained this vital early education program which has lowered costs for families and increased opportunities for teachers in the field.
• $460 million for Student Opportunity Act (SOA) expansion to support the fifth-year implementation of the SOA and provide $150 in minimum per-pupil aid for school districts.
• $180 million for universal free school meals.
• $120 million for MassEducate, the Commonwealth’s universal free community college program, including non-credit tuition funding for those seeking to become emergency medical technicians and paramedics.
• $192 million to provide child care financial assistance to families in need, which is in addition to the $773.7 million funded through general revenue.
• $91.6 million to maintain Department of Children & Families (DCF) andDepartment of Transitional Assistance (DTA) related child care, which is in addition to the $356.5 million funded through general revenue.
• $85 million to maintain financial aid programs for in-state students attending state universities through MASSGrant Plus, which is in addition to the $175.8 million for scholarships funded through general revenue.
• $83 million for child care supports to maintain current capacity and rates of the child care financial assistance program.
• $50 million for school transportation reimbursement costs, which is in addition to$53.7 million funded through general revenue.
• $14 million for the State University SUCCESS Program, providing wraparound supports to students at public state universities.
• $15.5 million for the Commonwealth Preschool Partnership Initiative (CPPI), matching $5 million in general revenue for a total of $20.5 million, to support a pathway to universal pre-kindergarten expansion, including in Gateway Cities and the Summer Step Up program.
• $15 million for early literacy initiatives and programs.
• $8 million for the Reimagining High School Initiative.

Notable Fair Share transportation investments include:

 

• $470 million in direct investment to support Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA) operations, including key initiatives like low-income fare relief, water ferry service and the MBTA Academy. Combined with the $535 million in funding from the recently passed Fair Share supplemental budget, the Legislature provides $1 billion in new investments in FY26 for operational improvements and transportation infrastructure upgrades across the MBTA system.
• $120 million to support Regional Transit Authorities (RTAs) across the state. Together with resources from the General Fund, the bill provides a record $214 million for RTAs.  
• $71.8 million for debt service for expanded new bond capacity for the Commonwealth Transportation Fund (CTF) for essential transportation projects across the Commonwealth.
• $55 million in operating support for the Massachusetts Department of Transportation (MassDOT).

 

Education

The Legislature’s FY26 budget supports students of all ages by maintaining investments in public education at every level. The budget fully funds the fifth year of the Student Opportunity Act, provides a historic funding commitment to the Department of Early Education and Care (EEC), and stands with public and private institutions of higher education at a volatile time.

 

With a $1.7 billion total investment in early education and care, the Legislature is building on last year’s investments in early education, which supported the sector’s workforce, protected programming, and maintained access to affordable care for families facing economic pressures.

 

Notable education funding includes:

 

• $475 million for the C3 operational grant program, supporting critical operational and workforce initiatives across the early education sector for the third year in a row. 
• $517.6 million for income-eligible child care, including $100.4 million in Fair Share resources.
• $448.2 million for Department of Children & Families (DCF) and Department of Transitional Assistance (DTA) related child care, providing critical services for families eligible for subsidized care, including $91.6 million in Fair Share resources.
• $83 million for child care supports to maintain the current capacity and rates of the child care financial assistance program.
• $45.4 million for EEC quality improvement initiatives.
• $20.5 million for the Commonwealth Preschool Partnership Initiative to maintain access to universal pre-kindergarten and preschool opportunities in underserved areas.
• $20 million for Childcare Resource and Referral Centers to support parents, child care providers, employers, and community groups in navigating the state’s early education and care landscape.
• $20 million for grants to Head Start programs to promote school readiness for young children in low-income households.
• $5 million for grants to early education and care providers for childhood mental health consultation services.
• $1 million to continue a public-private pilot program with employers to create new child care seats.

To support schools across the state, the Legislature follows through on the commitment to fully fund and implement the Student Opportunity Act by Fiscal Year 2027 and invests$7.36 billion in Chapter 70 state aid to public schools, an increase of $460 million over FY25. Further, the budget increases minimum Chapter 70 aid to $150 per pupil.

 

Recognizing the continued fiscal challenges faced by cities, towns and school districts as we near full implementation of the SOA, the budget directs the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) to study components of the state’s K-12 school funding formula related to local contribution requirements. DESE would be required to hold four public hearings in different regions of Massachusetts before reporting back to the Legislature by June 30, 2026.

 

For the second consecutive year, the Legislature fully funds, at $120 million in FY26,MassEducate, the Commonwealth’s universal free community college program that became law in last year’s budget. By again delivering free tuition and fees for residents, the FY26 proposal continues its support for this vital initiative that expands economic opportunity in a regionally equitable manner across the Commonwealth.

 

Other education investments include:

 

• $484.9 million for the Special Education (SPED) Circuit Breaker, in addition to the $190 million included in the Fair Share supplemental budget recently signed into law. Together with Fair Share supplemental funding, the Legislature’s FY26 budget fulfills the promise of 75 per cent reimbursement for eligible tuition and transportation costs, recommending $674 million in total to reimburse school districts for the cost of educating students with disabilities.
• $199 million for charter school reimbursements.
• $260.8 million for scholarships to students, including $85 million in Fair Share resources to expand MASSGrant Plus financial aid support for students attending public institutions.
• $103.7 million to reimburse school districts for regional school transportation costs, including $53.7 million in General Fund resources.
• $30 million for higher education wraparound services, including $16 million in General Fund resources, to support services for students attending community colleges through MassEducate, and $14 million in Fair Share resources to support wraparound services for students attending state universities.
• $12 million for rural school aid support.
• $14.3 million for early college programs and $13.1 million for dual enrollment, along with $8 million for Reimagining High School to empower high school students to take college courses prior to graduation.
• $5 million to support continued implementation of the Massachusetts Inclusive Concurrent Higher Education law, including $3 million for grants offered through the Massachusetts Inclusive Concurrent Enrollment initiative to help high school students with intellectual disabilities aged 18–22 access higher education opportunities; and $2 million for the Massachusetts Inclusive Concurrent Enrollment Trust Fund.
• $3 million for the Genocide Education Trust Fund to continue the state’s commitment to educate middle and high school students on the history of genocide.
• $2.5 million for the Civics Education Trust Fund to maintain and support a statewide civic infrastructure, provide professional development to teachers, and ensure that every student can access high quality civics education.
• $1 million for Hate Crimes Prevention Grants to support education and prevention of hate crimes and incidences of bias in public schools. 

 

Community Support

Highlighting the Legislature’s longstanding commitment to sustainable partnerships between the state and local governments, the budget agreement provides significant resources to support all Massachusetts cities and towns, ensuring that the state can meet the needs of every region, city, and town—and leave no corner of the Commonwealth behind.

 

The proposal includes $1.323 billion in funding for Unrestricted General Government Aid (UGGA), the primary source of direct flexible state aid to Massachusetts towns and cities, an increase of $14.4 million over FY25. UGGA funding supports resources for municipalities as they collectively confront increased fiscal constraints at the local level.

 

In addition to traditional sources of local aid, the Legislature’s FY26 budget also increases payments in lieu of taxes (PILOT) for state-owned land to $54.5 million. PILOT funding provides a supplemental source of local aid for cities and towns working to protect and improve essential services and programs.

 

Other local investments include:

 

• $209 million for regional public transportation systems, including $115 million from Fair Share funds to maintain and continue expansions to regional bus service, sustain systemwide fare free transit service, and support RTA commuter operations.
• $115.6 million for local housing authorities.
• $52.4 million for libraries, including $19 million for regional library local aid, $20 million for municipal libraries and $6.2 million for technology and automated resource networks.
• $30.8 million in grants to Councils on Aging, increasing assistance per elder to$16 from $15 in FY25.
• $27 million for the Massachusetts Cultural Council to support local arts, culture, and creative economic initiatives.
• $5 million to implement an immigration legal services program distributed by the office for refugees and immigrants to designated non-profit organizations to increase access to legal representation, advice, and advocacy for immigrants and refugees who are facing enhanced legal threats from the federal government.

 

The FY26 budget codifies fare-free RTA service, which will require all RTAs to eliminate passenger fares for fixed routes and ADA-required paratransit service. With this measure, the Legislature continues to prioritize regional equity, support RTAs as an essential public service that connects communities, and provide a crucial connection for commuters, students, seniors, and people with disabilities.

 

Health, Mental Health, and Family Care

The Senate’s FY26 budget funds MassHealth at $22.1 billion, an increase of over $2 billion over the last fiscal year. As the largest cost driver in the state’s budget, MassHealth alone accounts for 62 per cent of the total spending increase over the FY25 budget. Amid ongoing uncertainty in Washington, this budget maintains access to comprehensive health care coverage for over 2 million Massachusetts residents. MassHealth covers affordable, accessible, and comprehensive health care services for more than one in four residents, nearly half of all children, and seven out of every ten nursing facility residents.

 

Other health investments include:

 

• $3.26 billion for a range of services and focused support for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities, including $2 billion for community residential services and $287 million for the Department of Developmental Services (DDS) Community Day and Work program.
• $1.82 billion to support the Personal Care Attendant program and its historic collective bargaining agreement which raised the wage scale to $25 per hour.
• $694 million for adult support services, including $19 million to support jail diversion initiatives to better serve individuals with mental illness and substance use disorders and connect them with appropriate treatment.
• $650.1 million for nursing facility Medicaid rates, including $25 million in additional base rate payments to maintain competitive wages in the Commonwealth’s nursing facility workforce.
• $381 million for Department of Mental Health (DMH) hospital and community-based services, including $4.8 million to fully fund the operation of the Pocasset Mental Health Center.
• $237.7 million for Department of Public Health (DPH) hospital operations, including $31 million to fully fund and maintain operations of the Pappas Rehabilitation Hospital for Children through the duration of FY26.
• $187.1 million for the Bureau of Substance Abuse Services (BSAS), including$500 thousand in new funding to develop the state’s recovery coach workforce, which will support key initiatives from last session’s Substance Use Disorder and Recovery Coach Licensure Act.
• $132 million for children’s mental health services.
• $102 million for nursing facility enhanced Medicaid rates to begin implementation of the 2024 Long-Term Care Act, including $25 million to support the nursing home workforce.
• $73.1 million for domestic violence prevention services.
• $39.3 million for Early Intervention (EI) services, maintaining necessary support and services for infants and young toddlers with developmental delays and disabilities.
• $35 million for Family Resource Centers (FRCs) to maintain mental health resources available to families.
• $26.5 million for family and adolescent health, including $11.2 million for comprehensive family planning services and $6.7 million to enhance federal Title X family planning funding.
• $22.7 million for school-based health programming and services, including $3 million for school-based mental health services.
• $14.3 million for suicide prevention and intervention, with an additional $1.8 million for Samaritans Inc. and $1.1 million for the Call2Talk suicide prevention hotline. This investment protects and fully funds 9-8-8, the 24/7 suicide and crisis lifeline.
• $14.7 million for maternal and child health, including $10.8 million for pediatric palliative care services for terminally ill children and a policy adjustment to ensure that children up to age 22 can continue to be served through the program.
• $12.75 million for Meals on Wheels and other nutrition programs for seniors.
• $9.3 million for community health centers, including $1 million for gender affirming care services.
• $5.5 million for children advocacy centers to maintain critical support available to children that have been neglected or sexually abused.
• $5.5 million for the Office of the Child Advocate.
• $3.75 million for the Massachusetts Center on Child Wellbeing and Trauma.
• $3 million for Social Emotional Learning (SEL) grants to bolster social emotional learning support for K-12 students.
• $2.5 million for clinical care, veterans’ mental and behavioral health issues, including post-traumatic stress, traumatic brain injury, substance use disorder and suicide prevention administered by the Massachusetts General Hospital Home Base Program.
• $2 million for grants for improvements in reproductive health access, infrastructure, and safety.
• $1.25 million for the Young Mothers Experiencing Acute Trauma Pilot Program, a behavioral intervention program that works to stabilize and support young women, most of whom are mothers, who are traumatized survivors of abuse and neglect.
• $150,000 for Reproductive Equity Now Foundation, Inc. to operate a free and confidential abortion legal hotline for Massachusetts-based health care providers and helpers, as well as patients obtaining care in-state.

The budget establishes a legislative commission to study the future of the Pappas Rehabilitation Hospital for Children, including a review of the hospital’s finances and programs.

 

To help residents manage high prescription drug costs, the budget also extends the right of consumers to use coupons to pay for prescription drugs. The provision is extended through 2031.

 

Additionally, it requires the Department of Public Health to form a strategic task force to prepare recommendations for the continuity of abortion and abortion-related care in the Commonwealth in the event of the federal government ending support for reproductive care. 

 

Expanding and Protecting Opportunities

The Legislature is committed to expanding opportunity and supporting the state’s most vulnerable residents. This budget therefore maintains the annual child’s clothing allowance, providing $500 per child for eligible families to buy clothes for the upcoming school year. The budget also fully annualizes the FY25 10 per cent increase to Transitional Aid to Families with Dependent Children (TAFDC) and Emergency Aid to the Elderly, Disabled and Children (EAEDC) benefit levels to help families move out of deep poverty. Additionally, the budget ensures that pregnant women can access TAFDC, regardless of where they are in their pregnancy.

 

The Legislature’s budget dedicates $86 million to support food security and child nutrition initiatives, including $50.5 million for Emergency Food Assistance to assist residents in navigating the historical levels of food insecurity, $20.1 million for theHealthy Incentives Program (HIP) to ensure access to healthy food options, and $15.5 million for the Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) Nutrition Program.

 

Economic opportunity investments include:

 

• $467 million for Transitional Assistance to Families with Dependent Children(TAFDC) and $209 million for Emergency Aid to Elderly, Disabled and Children (EAEDC) to provide the necessary support as caseloads increase, which annualizes the deep poverty increases implemented in the FY25 budget.
• $101.3 million for DTA caseworkers to protect access to crucial financial assistance, food support, and employment and training programs for some of the state’s most vulnerable residents.
• $58.9 million for adult basic education services to improve access to skills necessary to join the workforce.
• $50.5 million for the Massachusetts Emergency Food Assistance Program.
• $20.1 million for the Healthy Incentives Program to support healthy food access for households in need.
• $20.6 million for employment services programs to help people with lower incomes move toward economic independence through pathways of self-sufficiency.
• $15.5 million for the Women, Infants, and Children Nutrition Program.
• $5 million for the Secure Jobs Connect Program, providing job placement resources and assistance for homeless individuals.
• $3.1 million for the Innovation Pathways program to continue to connect students to training and post-secondary opportunities with a focus on STEM fields.
• $1 million for employment programs for young adults with disabilities.

 

Housing

As the state envisions a more fiscally sustainable path for its future, increasing affordable housing opportunities and addressing housing challenges remain at the forefront of the Legislature’s agenda. This budget therefore invests more than $1.15 billion in housing initiatives, dedicating resources for housing stability, residential assistance, emergency shelter services, and homelessness assistance programs. 

 

Housing investments include:

 

• $253 million for the Massachusetts Rental Voucher Program (MRVP).
• $207 million for Residential Assistance for Families in Transition (RAFT).
• $115.6 million for local housing authorities.
• $113.3 million for assistance for homeless individual shelters.
• $57.3 million for the HomeBASE program to support sustainable exits from shelter.
• $19.5 million for the Alternative Housing Voucher Program (AHVP), providing rental assistance to people with disabilities.
• $18.2 million for homeless program administration to move people from the Emergency Assistance shelter system.
• $16 million for the Executive Office of Housing and Livable Communities.
• $10.6 million for assistance for unaccompanied homeless youth.
• $10 million for sponsor-based supportive permanent housing to support 16 new housing units and case management services for vulnerable individuals.
• $8.9 million for the Home and Healthy for Good re-housing and supportive services program, including funding to support homeless LGBTQ youth.
• $6.5 million for resident service coordinators to help residents maintain stable tenancies at local housing authorities, which are required to provide households with the services they need.
• $5.85 million for housing consumer education centers.
• $2.5 million for access to counsel.

In addition to these investments in housing, the budget includes a provision requiring that residential rental broker’s fees must be paid by the contracting agent, often the landlord of an apartment, ensuring that renters are not burdened with unexpected and extraordinary costs.

 

The budget also kickstarts two studies on ways to bring down housing costs for Massachusetts residents and increase housing production. One study for a sales tax exemption for multifamily housing projects stalled by federal tariffs. Another that would incentivize new affordable housing developments when considering local tax levy requirements.  The budget further creates a commission to help begin to explore solutions to address the remediation of concrete housing foundations that have crumbled because of the presence of pyrrhotite.

 

Further, the budget includes a provision that will allow candidates for elected office in Massachusetts to use their campaign funds for adult care services being provided to that candidate’s parent or other adult dependent, that occur because of campaign activities. In the 2024 economic development bill, the Legislature approved the use of campaign funds for child care.

 

Both chambers of the Legislature having voted to enact the legislation, the budget will now be sent to the Governor for her signature.