Massachusetts Senate to Take Up Bill Targeting Potholes, Failing Bridges, and Aging Transit

 Massachusetts Senate to Take Up Bill Targeting Potholes, Failing Bridges, and Aging Transit Regionally equitable approach includes funding for public transit and housing development support 

(BOSTON—5/18/2026) The Senate Committee on Ways and Means today reported a $2.737 billion bond bill to help fix local roads and bridges, invest in public transit infrastructure, and support housing development statewide. 

The bill—H.5375, An Act financing long-term improvements to municipal roads and bridges—addresses local repairs from pesky potholes to bridges requiring maintenance with a total of $300 million to support municipal road and bridge repairs.  

Support is included for all cities and towns through a $200 million bond authorization for the traditional Chapter 90 program, while an additional $100 million would boost rural areas through distribution based on communities’ road mileage. 

In addition to Chapter 90 funding, the bond bill will support high-priority repair projects with $500 million in borrowing for MassDOT’s Lifecycle Asset Management Program, which fast-tracks repairs for pavement and bridges considered to be in the worst condition. 

The plan pairs traditional road and bridge construction with long-term planning and improvements, such as $200 million aimed at spurring new housing construction with capital projects such as stormwater management, culverts, and bike and pedestrian infrastructure. 

The legislation would boost the Department of Conservation and Recreation with $200 million in borrowing to repair and modernize transportation infrastructure under the department’s care. It also supports the MBTA with $200 million to implement rail improvements, vehicle modernization, and new vehicle procurements at the public transit agency. 

The Senate plans to take up the bill during a session this week. Full details are available in a fact sheet in the Senate press room. 

The House of Representatives passed the bill in April, based on legislation originally filed in January by Governor Maura Healey. The Joint Committee on Transportation had recommended a new draft in March after seeking feedback at a public hearing, following which the Joint Committee on Bonding, Capital Expenditures and State Assets held a public hearing in April and favorably reported the bill. 

All committee votes are publicly posted on the Legislature’s website.