2024跟著僑委會的角度看台灣 (華文媒體訪台紀行)

僑委會委員長徐佳青(前排中)和僑務通訊社社長吳曉竹(前右二)
和海外華文媒體。(僑委會提供)

             (Boston Orange 周菊子台北報導) 中華民國建立113年，以台灣為家75年之後，政經文化及社會風貌於今如何? 僑務委員會為此特地邀請包括Youtuber的來自10國22名海外華文媒體業負責人，到台灣參訪8天7夜，期以讓更廣闊的世界看見台灣，認識台灣的自由、民主。

               僑委會基於政府「行動創新、AI內閣」政策目標所安排的參訪行程，包括拜會政府部門，參加國慶晚會及國慶大會，聽取新創企業簡報，參觀平面、廣播及電視媒體，遊覽主題路線等活動。

僑委會迎接雙十簡報

僑委會委員長徐佳青(前中)和圓山飯店董事長葉菊蘭(前右三)
和報到得獎僑胞合影。(周菊子攝)

             第一天，先到中央聯合辦公大樓，參加僑委會辦的僑胞回國報到及i僑卡特約商店推廣記者會。

僑委會委員長徐佳青(左)頒獎給第一個報到的僑胞。(周菊子攝)

             僑委會委員長徐佳青在現場歡迎僑胞，說明截至10月3日這天，已有4000多名僑胞報到，估計今年回國慶祝雙十的僑胞人數會破紀錄。凡是報到的僑胞都可以領到一份以黑熊為主題，由徐委員長親自設計，以中華民國生日快樂，美麗台灣為主題的手提袋、漁夫帽等精美禮物。

僑委會副委員長阮昭雄(立者)率僑委會同仁簡報僑委會業務。(周菊子攝)

                         徐委員長還提醒僑胞們辦張i僑卡，就可在包括台灣600多家，全世界8000多家公司、企業享有優惠，圓山大飯店就是其中之一。僑委會還邀請34家旅行社，規劃了162條路線，並提供每人3000元的補助，花東線加碼補助到3600元，希望僑胞們充分利用機會，進一步認識台灣，協助花東振興經濟。凡是持有i僑卡的僑胞，都可報名參加、申請補助。她說，雖然I僑卡已有8萬人申請，但不設上限，歡迎僑胞申辦。

在歡迎僑胞之際，徐委員長還提醒僑胞，520之後，歡迎對台灣五大信賴產業有興趣僑胞們，返台投資，加入促進台灣經濟發展的行列。

僑務通訊社社長吳曉竹說明僑委會的頻道。(周菊子攝)

僑委會接著安排了一場綜合座談，由副委員長阮昭雄率同僑委會的綜合規劃處處長郭淑貞，僑民處處長王怡如，副處長閻樹榮，僑教處專員劉俊男，僑商處簡任視察廖雲萱，僑務通訊社社長吳曉竹等人說明僑委會的各項業務，以及招攬僑生，引進人才，輔佐僑商等重點方向。阮副委員長還以他曾是發言人的經歷，直諫媒體不要一味求快而失真。

行政院。(周菊子攝)

僑務通訊社社長吳曉竹則特地說明，僑委會現在有Youtube頻道，line，臉書，X，Instagram等傳播頻道，其中的X和Instagram更是使用純英文，以加強和僑胞第二、第三代的聯繫。

拜會政府部門

拜會政府部門部份，僑委會安排的參訪包括晉見副總統蕭美琴，拜會行政院、外交部、數位發展部。

行政院有院長卓榮泰親自出席，向媒體闡述賴清德總統上任後計畫推動的國家希望工程，以及行動101方案，要和世界連結的願景。

東方年代電視台董事長吳麗珍(左)代表海外媒體團送
紀念品給行政院長卓榮泰。 (周菊子攝)

外交部安排政務次長吳志中和媒體晤談。吳志中獲有巴黎第一大學政治博士學位，以及法國總統在2014年頒給的「法國國家功勳騎士勳章」。他在擔任駐法代表6年期間，善用網路媒體和線上活動，讓更多人關注、認識了台灣。他強調，做外交，不只需要注重語言，更得把內容說清楚，才能促使國際社會關注台灣議題。

東方電視台董事長吳麗珍送加拿大冰酒給外交部政次吳志中作紀念品。(周菊子攝)

數位發展部由次長林宜敬代表出席。台大資工系畢業的林次長，從美國布朗大學取得電腦科學博士，在美國住了8年後，1997年才回台灣，曾任職趨勢科技、華通電腦，後來自己開公司，一直都在軟體業工作，進數位發展部才4個多月。

林宜敬表示，數位發展部目前有3項主要工作，一是促進台灣軟體產業的發展，利用提供算力、資料、人才，來建構一個健康的人工智慧生態環境。二是資訊安全，三是打擊詐騙，數發部研發了一個「網路詐騙通報查詢網」。

文化及民俗參訪

外交部大門。(周菊子攝)

                    在景點餐訪上，僑委會安排的參觀有二二八紀念館，女路及大稻埕，松山文創園區，烏來泰雅民族博物館，台北市客家文化中心，台北流行音樂中心，饒河夜市。

228國家紀念館

228紀念館展覽。(周菊子攝)

             僑委會安排的導覽為訪團從1947年2月27日在台北市太平町天馬茶房附近，私菸攤販林江邁被查緝員毆傷，路人陳文熙被槍殺的「緝菸血案」，2月28日民眾從大稻埕結隊遊行抗議，抵達長官公署時被衛兵以機關槍掃射，多人死傷，部分民眾透過台灣廣播電台對外發送消息，引發全台各地騷亂，成為了二二八事源源起，

              做了十分詳盡的介紹。     導覽也解釋了二二八紀念館以1930年代由台灣總督府交通局遞信部為發展台灣廣播事業而成立的「台北放送局」為館址，並在1997年2月28日，二二八事件發生的50週年正式開館的緣由。如今全台灣在二二八國家紀念館之外，另有22個地方設有228紀念碑、紀念公園。

女路及大稻埕

數位發展部。(周菊子攝)

           僑委會鑒於台灣的更加強調性平法後，特地安排女路參訪，介紹歷史中被忽視的在地女性故事。台北市的女路有大稻埕，萬華（艋舺）、松山錫口，北投等地景。媒體訪團走的是大稻埕路線，沿路參觀了霞海城隍廟、永樂布業商場、黑美人大酒家舊址、大千百貨、大安醫院舊址、新芳春茶行等。

數位發展部次長林宜敬。(周菊子)

              參觀大安醫院舊址，到旁邊的義美店鋪逛一圈時，許多對台灣現況已頗生疏的訪團成員意外發現，原來台北市前市長柯文哲成立的「台灣民眾黨」，竟和蔣渭水與林獻堂1927年成立，1931年解散的「台灣民眾黨」，名字一模一樣，然後想到有著極強個人色彩的柯文哲「台灣民眾黨」幾年前迅速崛起，如今面對黨主席身繫囹圄的窘狀。       

松山文創園區

烏來泰雅民族博物館。(周菊子攝)

            座落在大巨蛋旁邊的松山文創園區，從2011年正式對外開放以來，規劃了跨界實驗、共好平台、創意學院、創意櫥窗、創作者工廠等５大領域的國際型文創聚落。園區內文創展售攤位之多，產業類型之多元化，園區內的人潮，都讓人印象深刻。

導覽員講解228國家紀念館內的陳列物。(周菊子攝)

烏來泰雅民族博物館

張雨生的專輯也在展出品中。(周菊子攝)

                  烏來泰雅民族博物館是新北市政府為保存烏來泰雅傳統文化，1990年發起，2005年開始營運的一個民族文化館。訪團成員在這兒知道了烏來鄉泰雅人被稱為屈尺群，早年有13個大小部落，國民政府時期合併為忠治、烏來、孝義、信賢、福山等５社，泰雅族人染織材料整備，工序，纏頭巾、披肩等衣飾特色，生活用品就地採集材料等的生活習俗等，以及台灣有原住民約59萬人，分別有16族，佔總人口2.51%等概況。

        台北流行音樂中心

流行音樂人用的樂器。(周菊子攝)

             台北流行音樂中心原本是文化部為帶動台灣成為華語流行音樂創作與表演中心，而由文化部籌建，台北市政府協辦的2003年行政院新十大建設之一，2020年９月正式啟用，是台北市的第一個行政法人。

             訪團成員到訪時，正是「唱　我們的歌　流行音樂故事展（Music, Island, Stories: Pop music in Taiwan）」展出期間。佈展者請李宗盛等音樂名家的聲音為參觀者導覽開始，在３個樓層，13個展區，請16位引言人，展示113首歌曲，1400多件流行音樂名人的手稿、樂器、服飾等物品，在創意豐富的設計中，帶參觀者走過、認識了台灣流行音樂歷史。

平面、廣播、電視媒體參訪

             儘管僑委會顧及媒體業轉變，今年在傳統報章及廣播、電視媒體之外，邀請了Youtuber，Podcast，IG (Instaram)等新社群媒體創作者參訪，但在拜會、參訪台灣媒體上，倒只安排了華視，中央廣播電台，以及天下雜誌等偏傳統媒體。

華視大樓屋頂的停機坪可眺望101大樓。(周菊子攝)

             華視創設於1971年，和台視、中視並稱為老三台。2021年慶祝成立50週年，接手中天頻道撤照後留下來的3 獨立系統52頻道。在媒體生態環境改變下，新聞與綜藝節目並重的華視，近年也積極多元發展。華視總經理特助張正等人帶媒體訪團參觀了華視新聞部，可輕易使用各種虛擬背景的數位影棚，導播室，以及樓頂直升機停機，共藏有逾萬件明清等各朝代戲服的衣飾收藏間。甫於今年1月接任華視總經理的報導者基金會董事長劉昌德隨後親至現場和海外媒體代表互動。

上任不到一年的華視總經理劉昌德。(周菊子攝)

              中央廣播電台由副總台長李冠毅，央廣學院經理曾偉旻，公共服務部副理賴邦寧等人出面與媒體訪團座談。

             李冠毅說明，央廣除了在圓山飯店旁的總管之外，在淡水、口湖、褒忠等地有3個分館，另外在民雄有個國家廣播文物館。成立於1928年的該台，是中華民國唯一專責向國際廣播的電台，以20種語言發聲，未來的方向是要做國際連接，加強對國內新聞同業及傳播人才的培育，協助刻在台灣的大約200多名外籍媒體記者從台灣去看世界，今年1月還特地成立了央廣學院。，

央廣副總台長李冠毅(右)。(周菊子攝)

             李冠毅也很自豪地說，今年的第59屆廣播金鐘獎，央廣入圍了12項大獎，另外入圍了國際廣播協會( AIB)的大賽。新聞部也入圍了卓越新聞獎    ，體現了央廣在節目及新聞上的付出與努力，對社會的關注和對全球一體的掌握。   

天下雜誌

天下雜誌獨立評論總監廖雲章。(周菊子攝)

           「天下」是台灣第一本財經雜誌，創辦迄今已40餘年，隨著最早期讀者的年齡成長，以及產業及媒體生態環境的轉變，如今的天下有5大事業部，包括已從月刊改為半月刊的天下雜誌，以及康健，親子天下，換日線，和有點像Coursea那樣的【天下學習】。目前「天下」的營收有一半來自數位內容與服務，每2年出版一本數位轉型報告。

天下雜誌獨立評論總監廖雲章等人在回應天下如何成功轉型的提問時，她說，天下的發行人一直相信教育，以及跟上或創造趨勢的重要性，所以很多時候，作為台灣第一本財經雜誌，也是第一個採用讀者付費制的「天下」都是走在前端，包括使用ChatGPT、AI

天下雜誌的理念。(周菊子攝)

等等。當然另外一個「天下」能夠順利走上讀者付費這條路的原因是，財經媒體的讀者比較願意為有價值的知識和資訊付費，「天下」本身的含金量高，對記者的要求也高，為員工提供有Coursera課程，以及一年20本書的持續學習資源。           

海外華文媒體訪問團參訪行程中還有2個重點，國慶晚會和國慶大會。

國慶晚會

賴清德在國慶晚會中提要認清祖國。(周菊子攝)

             國慶晚會是由立法院院長韓國瑜擔任籌備主委，台北市市長蔣萬安率隊承辦，有2萬人出席的一場盛會。這不但是大巨蛋自落成啟用以來，首次舉辦非體育性活動，還有封咪9年後首度露臉的江蕙當表演嘉賓，外傳黃牛票價喊至1萬6千元。

   
         在晚會中，韓國瑜說怎麼看，中華民國國旗都是最美麗的國旗。他呼籲家家戶戶在10月10日這天把國旗掛出來。

左起，卓榮泰、韓國瑜，蔣萬安、郝龍斌、戴錫堃。(翻拍自現場螢幕)

             蔣萬安則說，「讓首都台北成為大家的驕傲，展現中華民國向心力、凝聚力，讓世界看到團結的台灣」。 

           總統賴清德在中華民國國歌演唱完畢後步入會場。致詞時，他十分週到稱呼韓國瑜、卓榮泰，蔣萬安之後，「代表全體國人祝賀中華民國113歲生日快樂，國運昌隆，全國人民安康幸福」。

國慶晚會現場。(周菊子攝)

             賴清德強調，在慶祝之際，最重要的有一樣意義是「我們一定要銘記，我們是一個主權獨立的國家，我們要愛我們的國家，時時愛我們的國家，同時要學習先賢先烈的精神，犧牲奉獻，我們要團結守護國家主權，維護民主自由人權的生活方式，才不辜負這麼多年來，犧牲奉獻的每一個人。

江蕙演唱。(周菊子攝)

             賴清德說，「最近，我們的鄰居，10月1日剛過完75歲生日。再過幾天，中華民國就要過113歲生日，因此就年齡來說，中華人民共和國是絕對不可能成為中華民國人民的祖國，反倒是中華民國可能是中華人民共和國75歲以上的民眾的祖國。不過中華民國在台澎金馬落地生根已經75年，我們是不必再去談論這層關係，但是如果有人要祝賀中華人民共和國生日快樂，特別祝賀詞要精準，切勿用祖國兩字。大家說對不對?

出席國慶大會的群眾，排隊進場時會經過北檢。(周菊子攝)

 
           賴清德還特別指出，鑒於山陀兒颱風來襲造成的狀況，行政院院長卓榮泰在編列明年度預算時，特別增加了治水預算159億元，使總金額達到551億元，要提供給各縣市政府做水利建設，來因應氣候變遷所蒞臨的各種災害。希望大家一起來，讓國家更繁榮、強壯。

           韓國瑜院長的強調中華民國旗幟漂亮，應遍地懸掛，賴清德總統官祝賀詞需精準，別把中華人民共和國稱為祖國的發言，當晚就在社交網路中引發巨量關注與評論。

總統府前掛出中華民國和吐瓦魯的國旗。(周菊子攝)

             僑委會委員長徐佳青在國慶晚會上以多種語言問好，歡迎僑胞返國同慶。她在僑委會接受僑胞報到的第一天，曾指出，台北市政府只撥給僑委會2000個位子，以至於不是每名返國僑胞都有機會進大巨蛋，僑委會也很無奈。

國慶大會

          10月10

立法院院長韓國瑜。(周菊子攝)

日一早，在總統府前舉行的國慶大會是另一個重點。總統賴清德和副總統蕭美琴在總統府內接待包括吐瓦魯總理戴斐立等嘉賓後，率同各國使節及到賀嘉賓進入席上有前總統陳水扁、蔡英文，前副總統陳建仁，海基會副董事長羅文嘉等人的主席台，立法委員黃珊珊、黃國昌，羅智強，葉元之，名嘴黃暐瀚等人，也都側身主席台上。

             韓國瑜院長、賴清德總統、代表僑胞的美國台灣同鄉會會長陳桂鈴等人一一致詞。

中華民國總統賴清德。(周菊子攝)

             賴清德總統在國慶演說中說，「我們永遠不會忘記75年前的古寧頭戰役，66年前的823戰役，不分族群的你我守住了中華民國」。45年前的「美麗島」事件為民主運動做先鋒，最終實踐了人民當家做主的願望。

             賴清德報告，他在總統府內成立了「國家氣候變遷對策委員會」、「健康台灣推動委員會」、「全社會防衛韌性委員會」等3個委員會，會持續推動「第二次能源轉型」，要提升國家整體的「國防」、「民生」、「災防」、「民主」等四大韌性。未來除了要推動「5+2

全美台灣同鄉會會長陳桂鈴代表僑胞致詞。(周菊子攝)

」產業創新，「六大核心戰略產業」，還要發展半導體、人工智慧、軍工，安控、以及世代通訊的「五大信賴產業」。明年度撥給地方政府的一般補助款，以及統籌稅分配款增加895億元，「0到6歲，國家一起養」。他說台灣將提早啟動「長照3.0」，落實防治慢性蹦的「888計畫」，成立「百億癌症新藥基金」，推動「健康台灣深耕計畫」等。

             賴清德擁抱「中華民國」這名稱的演講詞，讓許多一直認為他是台獨堅定擁護者的人大感意外。

軍機把國旗運進會場。(周菊子攝)

             在今年的國慶大會表演節目上，不但有勇鷹機隊在天空中拉出紅白藍的國旗顏色，台北市第一女子高級中心樂儀隊和國防部三軍儀隊，聯合樂隊，陸軍專科學校戰鼓隊，陸軍機械化步兵第333旅埔光龍的表演拉開序幕，竟然還有由陸海軍招募員組成的國軍人形氣偶隊上場。

北一女樂儀隊進場。(周菊子攝)

             2024年是一個國際局勢暗潮洶湧，台灣面對更多不確定性的年份。僑委會安排的海外媒體訪問團也因應媒體業新生態，首次在傳統的平面、廣播、電視媒體業者之外，廣納網路自媒體、Youtuber、Podcaster等新媒體經營者。這次的訪團有來自馬來西亞、菲律賓、印尼、澳洲、巴西、加拿大、美國、法國、義大利、南非的媒體從業人員。

國軍人形氣偶隊。 (周菊子攝)

             其中來自義大利米蘭的2名youtuber，陶品熙 (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=etYsRgsP5v8)   和王雪靜 (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FJZrBn9rvoY)，在訪團行程結束後，分別製作了別具一格的視頻，讓人從不同角度「看」見台灣。

波士頓僑務委員郭競儒(左)和僑委會委員長徐佳青在會場相逢。 (周菊子攝)

民眾黨立法委員黃國昌。 (周菊子攝)

立法委員黃珊珊進場。 (周菊子攝)

立法委員羅智強(右起)、葉元之進總統府廣場看台時和僑胞打招呼。 (周菊子攝)

海基會副董事長羅文嘉。 (周菊子攝)

中華民國總統府。 (周菊子攝)

麻州動用4500萬元聯邦經費加強土地保育

 Massachusetts Awarded $45 Million in Federal Funding to Advance Land Conservation  

Funding will help protect farmlands, forests and wetlands to combat climate change and enhance resilience  

BOSTON – The Healey-Driscoll Administration is celebrating more than $45 million awarded to Massachusetts from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) to accelerate land conservation efforts across the state. The funding is provided through the USDA’s Regional Conservation Partnership Program (RCPP) to further support resilience while tackling climate change. The Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs (EEA) was awarded $20.8 million for a proposal titled “Massachusetts’ Resilient Lands Conservation Partnership”. Additionally, Mass Audubon received $25 million for their Building Resilience in the Connecticut River Watershed project.  

To date, Massachusetts has secured $2.3 billion in federal climate funding since Governor Maura Healey took office. 

"We’ve seized every climate funding opportunity, and it’s paying off big time,” said Governor Maura Healey. “By prioritizing land conservation, we’re protecting our environment while boosting local economies through sustainable farming and improved recreation. These efforts will make our communities stronger and healthier, while also ensuring that nature is accessible to all." 

“Winning federal funding for land conservation is a victory for our environment and our communities,” said Lieutenant Governor Kim Driscoll. “This funding safeguards our air and water, strengthens our economy through sustainable tourism and creates jobs. It’s about preserving the beauty of our landscape while creating a brighter future for generations to come.” 

“I am proud to have fought for the boost of funding to USDA’s Regional Conservation Partnership Program through the historic Inflation Reduction Act,” said Senator Ed Markey. “Thanks to the work of the Healey-Driscoll administration, these federal dollars are coming home to the Commonwealth to protect farmland and critical habitat in Massachusetts to the tune of $45 million. By investing in our underserved farmers, this funding will not only benefit the environment and climate resiliency, but also advance the fight for environmental justice.” 

EEA’s Division of Conservation Services (DCS) will work with partner organizations through the Resilient Lands Conservation Coalition to use the funding to protect the state’s farmlands, forests and wetlands for the long term. The Coalition, which is co-convened by EEA and Mass Audubon, focuses on environmental justice while addressing climate change and building resilience. Massachusetts plans to accelerate land conservation by expanding partnerships between state agencies, land trusts, and municipalities. The funded conservation work will introduce new easements that extend beyond traditional USDA options, aiming to help underserved farmers facing challenges. Through these easements, Massachusetts expects protected land to support environmental goals and capture and store carbon while improving climate change adaptation and habitat protection. 

“Our environmental mission is clear - we must preserve our farms and forests, sustain a vibrant local food system, and create accessible outdoor spaces for everyone to enjoy nature,” said Energy & Environmental Affairs Secretary Rebecca Tepper. “This federal funding highlights the critical role of land conservation in combating climate change and addressing the environmental challenges we face from habitat loss to pollution. We are committed to ensuring that these efforts promote equity, ensuring every community benefits from access to green spaces and sustainable resources. We have an incredible team dedicated to making this vision a reality, working tirelessly to foster a more sustainable, equitable, and connected community.” 

“This exciting award is a key example of how our whole-of-government pursuit for federal funds is helping us protect our environment and advance our climate goals,” said Director of Federal Funds and Infrastructure Quentin Palfrey. “Thank you to President Biden, Vice-President Harris, Secretary Vilsack, and all of our terrific federal partners for this award.” 

Mass Audubon’s Building Resilience in the Connecticut River Watershed project is focused on protecting over 10,000 acres of essential forest, riparian, and wetland habitats through conservation restrictions along the Connecticut River in Massachusetts. The initiative also aims to restore at least 100 acres of vital riparian and wetland ecosystems through targeted land management activities. This work will help ensure the permanent storage of carbon, prevent emissions from forest conversion, and enhance climate resilience for the diverse ecosystems within the Northeast Forests and Waters Critical Conservation Area. 

“Public-private partnerships generated by this historic grant represent the future of land conservation and the level of collaboration that’s required to protect nature and mitigate the negative impacts of climate change,” said Mass Audubon President & CEO David O’Neill. “These funds will allow us to work with partners, including Secretary Tepper and the Department of Energy and Environmental Affairs and private landowners to purchase conservation easements that simultaneously support landowner needs, protect wildlife habitat, and address climate change.” 

Healey-Driscoll Administration Announces $161 Million for Economic Development Projects Through Community One Stop for Growth

Healey-Driscoll Administration Announces $161 Million for Economic Development Projects Through Community One Stop for Growth 

Announcement Delivers Funding from 12 State Grant Programs That Will Help Create Over 18,000 Housing Units, 31,000 Jobs, and more than 14 Million Square Feet of Commercial Development 

WORCESTER – Today, Governor Maura Healey, Lieutenant Governor Kim Driscoll, Economic Development Secretary Yvonne Hao and Housing and Livable Communities Secretary Ed Augustus announced more than $161 million for 313 grant awards to support local economic development projects in 171 communities across the state. The awards were made through the Community One Stop for Growth, an application portal overseen by the Executive Office of Economic Development (EOED) that provides a streamlined process for municipalities and organizations to apply for 12 state grant programs that fund economic development projects related to planning and zoning, site preparation, building construction, infrastructure, and housing development.   

The grants were announced during a kickoff celebration in Worcester at the site of the Greendale Revitalization project, which is a recipient of an award through the MassWorks grant program, one of the largest programs in the One Stop.  

"We are proud to be a state of strong cities and towns, made stronger by programs like the Community One Stop for Growth, which deliver the resources our communities need to grow their local economies and meet the needs of their residents," said Governor Maura Healey. “Communities will use these grants to build more housing and lower costs, improve road safety, revitalize their downtowns, create new jobs and more. We can’t wait to see the results of these investments all across the state.” 

"The One Stop is an important vehicle for supporting our communities by empowering them to pursue their vision for economic growth," said Lieutenant Governor Kim Driscoll. "By working together and keeping our focus at the local level, we are creating opportunity, supporting affordability, and enhancing quality of life for all of our residents."   

Through this round of the One Stop, EOED received 756 applications from 510 organizations with projects in 229 communities across the state. Of the 313 applications awarded, 33 percent are located in a rural or small town, 32 percent are located in a Gateway City, 48 percent are located in a Housing Choice Community, and 50 percent are located in an MBTA Community. 40 communities are receiving a grant through the One Stop for the first time. 

EOED estimates the One Stop awards will help create more than 18,000 new units of housing, including 4,000 new affordable units, 31,000 new permanent jobs, and more than 14 million square feet of new commercial development. 

"Every year, the Community One Stop for Growth invests in transformative projects that unlock local and regional economic growth," said Economic Development Secretary Yvonne Hao. "We are grateful to the hundreds of municipal partners, developers, and community leaders who submitted applications, and we look forward to partnering with you to bring your economic development projects to life in the years ahead."   

“Cities and towns across the state are stepping up to plan and develop housing for individuals, families, and the people who keep Massachusetts running,” said Housing and Livable Communities Secretary Ed Augustus. “The awards announced today are a recognition of this hard work and will support local infrastructure improvements, community planning efforts and economic development initiatives that are essential to building resilient and durable communities.” 

The FY25 One Stop program awards include:   

• MassWorks Infrastructure Program - $95 million awarded to 62 projects  

• HousingWorks Infrastructure Program - $19,252,000 awarded to 12 projects 

• Underutilized Properties Program - $18,704,674 awarded to 37 projects 

• Rural Development Fund - $10 million awarded to 49 projects 

• Site Readiness Program - $5,238,682 awarded to 18 projects 

• Housing Choice Grant Program - $4,893,715 awarded to 21 projects 

• Community Planning Grant Program - $2,841,336 awarded to 34 projects 

• Urban Agenda Grant Program - $2.5 million awarded to 26 projects  

• Brownfields Redevelopment Fund - $1,380,050 awarded to seven projects  

• Collaborative Workspace Program - $1,100,549 awarded to 19 projects 

• Massachusetts Downtown Initiative - $600,000 awarded to 24 projects  

• Real Estate Services Technical Assistance - $250,000 awarded to six projects  

The full list of grant recipients and project descriptions is available on the EOED website.  

MassWorks, one of the state’s largest competitive grant programs, offers cities and towns flexible capital funding to support and accelerate economic development and job growth. This year, the administration is awarding grants to 56 communities through the MassWorks program. Among this year’s awardees, 28 are supporting mixed-use, housing, or commercial developments and 12 are improving road safety in small towns. These projects will create 5,158 units of housing, 7,163 permanent jobs, and 22,710 construction jobs. 

HousingWorks provides municipalities with grants for a variety of infrastructure improvements that spur housing development and preservation. This year, the administration is awarding grants to 12 communities to create over 1,550 new housing units and preserve over 690 units of housing.   

“Our team administers five of the One Stop programs on behalf of the Commonwealth, identifying the best opportunities to overcome barriers to development and drive progress in our cities and towns,” said MassDevelopment Deputy Director and Senior Executive Vice President Marcos Marrero. “Whether through a funding grant or technical assistance, these awards will create tangible impacts for Massachusetts in the form of new housing, new jobs, and more vibrant neighborhoods.” 

“I feel incredibly grateful for the Healey-Driscoll administration’s decision to increase accessibility for community development funds,” said Mayor of Worcester Joseph M. Petty. “It was a privilege to host the announcement in our great city, at a location where we will undoubtedly benefit from the program.” 

“Thank you to the Healey-Driscoll Administration for its continued support and funding of critical economic development projects in Worcester through the Community One Stop for Growth program,” said Worcester City Manager Eric D. Batista. “This program enables projects like housing development, downtown revitalization, job creation, infrastructure improvement, and community empowerment that are critical to Worcester and municipalities across the Commonwealth.” 

“Today’s investment means real money for infrastructure, housing, and community development is headed to cites and towns statewide,” said Senate President Karen E. Spilka (D-Ashland). “This is a part of our all-hands-on-deck approach to solving the challenges of our time, and I’m grateful to the Healey-Driscoll Administration for their quick and effective use of these dollars that were allocated by the Legislature.” 

“The grants being celebrated today will improve our cities and towns’ infrastructure by funding critical local economic development projects,” said House Speaker Ronald J. Mariano (D-Quincy). “I am proud of the work that we have done in the Legislature to appropriate funding for the many important projects that have been made possible by the Community One Stop for Growth program, and I look forward to seeing the positive impact that they will have on our Commonwealth.” 

“The Community One Stop for Growth is a transformative initiative that empowers cities and towns to lead their own economic development,” said Senator Robyn Kennedy (D- First Worcester District). “These grants provide vital support for housing, infrastructure, and job creation, which will have lasting impacts on communities like Worcester. By investing in projects that address local needs, we’re ensuring long-term growth and opportunity for residents across the Commonwealth.” 

“Grants like those awarded through Community One Stop for Growth are key to ensuring our cities and towns continue to thrive,” said Senator Michael Moore (D-Millbury). “I’m thrilled to be here with other members of the Worcester Delegation, the Healey-Driscoll Administration, and the community to celebrate these investments in our infrastructure, housing, community programs, and more. Looking to the future, I am eager to continue the Legislature’s collaboration with the Governor to ensure our communities have access to the funding they need to support every Bay Stater.” 

“This grant will provide a once-in-a-generation chance to revitalize Greendale’s historic industrial campus that has been a cornerstone of the Worcester community for over a century,” said State Representative John Mahoney (D-13th Worcester District). “Thank you to the Healey-Driscoll Administration for recognizing the potential in announcing the Community One Stop for Growth Awards. By reimaging this space, we will lay the groundwork for new industries to flourish in Worcester well into the next century.”  

“I am elated to see funding of $2.8M by way of the One Fund Growth Grant come to the Greendale Revitalization Project,” said State Representative James O’Day (D-14 Worcester District). “This project will be a vital economic development opportunity for the city that will enhance West Boylston Street’s commercial corridor by attracting new manufacturing and life sciences companies to Worcester and bring new job opportunities to the Greendale neighborhood.” 

“As Worcester continues to focus on equitable economic development, it is important to have the support of the Commonwealth on efforts that support small businesses and a transition to the new green economy,” said State Representative David LeBoeuf (D-17th Worcester District). “These One Stop investments are going to have a positive impact on improving the overall wellbeing of our neighborhoods in the region.” 

Healey-Driscoll Administration Announces Fare Free Regional Transit Across State

Healey-Driscoll Administration Announces Fare Free Regional Transit Across State 

Grants awarded to 13 Regional Transit Authorities to provide year-round, fare free service in communities across Massachusetts   

GREENFIELD – The Healey-Driscoll Administration today announced $30 million in grants to 13 Regional Transit Authorities (RTAs) in Massachusetts to provide year-round, fare free public transportation services. The funding was provided in the Fiscal Year 2025 budget signed by Governor Maura Healey in July and builds off of two years of successful pilot programs.  

Governor Maura Healey, MassDOT Undersecretary Hayes Morrison, Greenfield Mayor Ginny Desorgher, Senator Jo Comerford, and Representatives Natalie Blais and Susannah Whipps made the announcement at John W. Olver Transit Center, which is the headquarters of the Franklin Regional Transit Authority (FRTA), in Greenfield. FRTA has been providing fare free fixed route service since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic in Fiscal Year 2020, and its board has voted to continue running fare free service every year since the pandemic. FRTA has previously used a mix of federal COVID-19 relief funding and state funding to provide this service, which will be able to continue with the support of full state funding. FRTA ridership has now exceeded pre-pandemic ridership totals.  

“Hundreds of thousands of Massachusetts residents rely on their Regional Transit Authorities to get to and from work, the grocery store, doctor’s appointments and school. We’re proud to be delivering this funding to help RTAs keep their service fare free to save money for riders and encourage more people to use public transportation,” said Governor Maura Healey. “I’m grateful for the leadership of Senate President Spilka, Speaker Mariano and the entire Legislature to make regional transportation more affordable and accessible across our state.”  

“The results of the fare free pilot programs our RTAs have been running for the past few years have been incredible. More riders are saving money by choosing to take public transportation in their communities,” said Lieutenant Governor Kim Driscoll. “We’re excited to be able to support the continuation of these programs with full state funding, which will significantly benefit our residents, communities, businesses and economy.”  

“So many residents rely on public transit on a daily basis, and by enabling free fares at a number of our regional transit systems, we are making transportation more equitable for those who need it the most,” said Transportation Secretary Monica Tibbits-Nutt. “This great new fare free program is a testament to the Healey-Driscoll Administration’s commitment to giving Massachusetts’ residents greater access to mobility options."   

“We are fortunate to be able to extend the fare free option to so many of our partners in the state, to further support regional economic development and accessibility,” said Rail and Transit Administrator Meredith Slesinger. “We thank our RTA partners for the collaboration and for their commitment to serving their respective communities which rely on public transit.”   

“Ensuring that all residents of the Commonwealth have access to a safe and reliable public transportation system is one of the most important responsibilities that we have as elected officials,” said House Speaker Ronald J. Mariano (D-Quincy). “That’s why I’m incredibly proud of the funding that the Legislature allocated for regional transit authorities in this year’s budget, funding that will help to connect communities across Massachusetts. I want to thank Governor Healey for her support for this funding, as well as my colleagues in the House and our partners in the Senate for the work that they did to make it a reality.”  

“Regional transit knits our state together,” said Senate President Karen E. Spilka (D-Ashland). “The Senate championed this initiative to boost access for residents who depend on these services, and make our state more resilient in the face of the climate crisis. I’m grateful to the Healey-Driscoll Administration for standing this program up quickly and effectively, and to the leadership and staff of our transit authorities for delivering service that is imperative to our communities.”  

“The success of our RTA pilot programs has clearly shown that investing in public transportation benefits riders and entire communities,” said Senator Brendan Crighton, Senate Chair of the Joint Committee on Transportation (D-Lynn). “This incredible investment in our RTAs will ensure that residents throughout Massachusetts can benefit from the increased mobility and economic opportunities provided by public transit. Thank you to the Healey-Driscoll Administration for prioritizing this grant program and making public transportation more accessible for riders statewide.”   

"Regional Transit Authorities are often the primary form of transportation for our residents, and in some cases, they are the only means of getting around," said Representative William Straus, House Chair of the Joint Committee on Transportation (D-Bristol). "I am pleased to see this funding go to fill an important need to expand transit access for so many."  

“The Education and Transportation Fund has been tremendously helpful in supporting Regional Transit Authorities. Across the Commonwealth, RTA’s have added desperately needed service to enhance access to education, jobs, appointments, and everything in between,” said Southeastern Regional Transit Authority Administrator Erik B. Rousseau. “The Fare-Free Pilot is a wonderful way to help reduce barriers and build ridership while allowing far more people to enjoy the benefits of public transportation.”  

“The Fare Share Amendment, and the grant program for Fare Free at the RTAs is a lifeline to many in the MetroWest area. By allowing us to go fare free, MassDOT and the Legislature are helping residents throughout the Commonwealth to live, work, and thrive,” said Jim Nee, Administrator at the MetroWest Regional Transit Authority.  

“The Commonwealth’s Fare Free initiative has allowed BAT to introduce its safe, frequent, and reliable service to new customers throughout our service area,” said Brockton Area Transit Authority (BAT) Administrator Michael Lambert. “BAT is currently experiencing its highest ridership levels in a quarter century, thereby advancing our goals to support the local economy, reduce congestion, improve air quality and enhance the overall quality of life for our community.”  

“The Lowell Regional Transit Authority (LRTA) is excited to be offering a pilot fare-free service for our communities over the next ten months,” said LRTA Administrator Dave Bradley. “With this program in place, we aim to increase customer usage, thus reducing congestion and improving air quality, while addressing our region’s transportation needs. We would like to thank the Governor and the Legislature for providing this opportunity to improve and expand access to public transportation for both existing and new riders of our system.”    

“Merrimack Valley Transit has been fare-free systemwide since March of 2022 and the results have been unassailable. Since going fare free, our fixed route bus ridership has quadrupled and now exceeds pre-pandemic levels by over 60%, while passenger complaints are down a third. Bus trips are faster, and drivers are happier because they no longer have to police the fare policy,” said Noah Berger, Administrator at the Merrimack Valley Regional Transit Authority (MeVa). “Our subsidies per passenger are down, while our riders report no longer having to ration trips to medical or educational appointments due to cost, and they are keeping more money in their pockets to spend at local businesses in Lawrence, Methuen and Haverhill. We are grateful to the Governor and Legislature, especially the Merrimack Valley delegation, for making these funds available to allow MeVa to continue this vital program that has been so impactful for the communities we serve.”  

Working together, the 13 RTAs submitted a joint application to disburse the $30 million made available in the FY25 state budget based on ridership within their service areas. These RTA have been offering fare free service in recent years using federal and state funds. Now, this service will be able to continue with full state funding.   

The 13 RTAs that applied for and will be receiving funds are: 

• Brockton Area Transit Authority: $2,582,274 

• Berkshire Regional Transit Authority: $699,733   

• Cape Anne Transit Authority: $293,054   

• Franklin Regional Transit Authority: $218,173   

• Lowell Regional Transit Authority: $1,170,257  

• Montachusett Area Regional Transit:  $1,095,279  

• Merrimack Valley Transit Authority: $2,575,810   

• MetroWest Regional Transit Authority: $812,331   

• Nantucket Regional Transit Authority: $484,507   

• Pioneer Valley Transit Authority: $9,511,353 

• Southeastern Regional Transit Authority: $3,230,893   

• Vineyard Transit Authority:  $1,809,050   

• Worcester Regional Transit Authority:  $5,517,286    

Information on the Regional Transit Authorities operating in Massachusetts can be found online:  https://www.mass.gov/info-details/public-transportation-in-massachusetts#regional-transit-authorities-