麻州宣告乾旱嚴重

 Critical Drought Declared Across Massachusetts 

Most of Massachusetts now in a Level 3-Critical Drought, except for Cape and Islands Regions 

BOSTON – With precipitation at an unprecedented low over the last three months, Energy and Environmental Affairs (EEA) Secretary Rebecca Tepper today elevated the Western, Connecticut River Valley, and Southeast regions to a Level 3 - Critical Drought. A Level 3 - Critical Drought persists in the Central and Northeast regions. The Cape and Islands regions remain at a Level 0 - Normal condition. As outlined in the Massachusetts Drought Management Plan, a Level 3 - Critical Drought requires detailed monitoring of drought conditions, continued coordination among state and federal agencies to communicate the implementation of water use restrictions, declaration of bans on open burning, engagement with municipalities including local Board’s of Health, providing technical outreach and assistance to water suppliers and affected municipalities. The Drought Management Task Force will meet biweekly in the coming months to ensure responsive oversight of the drought.  

“Massachusetts is experiencing critical drought conditions that are fueling unprecedented and destructive wildfires across the state,” said Energy and Environmental Affairs Secretary Rebecca Tepper. “Climate change is reshaping our region’s weather patterns, resulting in warmer and drier fall and winter seasons. Water conservation is more important than ever. We urge municipalities, residents, and businesses - including those with private wells - to help us reduce stress on our water systems. We need to work together to ensure we have enough clean drinking water, protect wildlife habitats, and maintain effective fire control. Every small effort counts.”  

“As drought conditions intensify, MEMA continues to work with our partners on the Drought Management Task Force and with those coordinating the ongoing response to wildfires,” said Massachusetts Emergency Management Agency Director Dawn Brantley. “This is not your normal fire season, but everyone can help protect your family, your home, your community, and the responders on the front lines by avoiding anything that could create a spark or ember outdoors.”  

Over the past 30 days, most of the state received less than an inch of rain, which is 3 to 4.5 inches below normal. Many areas recorded their lowest rainfall ever for this time of the year. Since August, when dry conditions began, all regions except the Cape and the Islands have seen an 8 to 11 inch rainfall deficit.   

Streamflow has also sharply decreased, especially in the Central region. This has resulted in dry brooks and streambeds, increased ponding, exposed beaches and sediments, limited fish passage, and drying ponds. Furthermore, groundwater levels are falling quickly in all regions, with the Western, Connecticut River Valley, Central, and Northeast regions showing the largest drops. Residents can report dry environmental conditions they are experiencing and submit photos to support state drought monitoring efforts here.  

Fire activity has increased across the state because of drought conditions, leading to wildfires that are burning deeper into the soil. Due to fire conditions, the Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR) has implemented a temporary ban of all open flame and charcoal fires within state park properties. Small portable propane grills are still allowed at campgrounds and recreation areas where grilling is permitted. This situation can make it harder to control fires and may prolong fire incidents. About 200 cities and towns have implemented temporary restrictions on all outdoor burning: residents are encouraged to follow local and state guidance on any activity that involves open flames, sparks and embers, or other ignition sources outdoors.  

Currently, there are approximately 37 active wildfires across the state. This year’s fire season has lasted longer because of dry conditions. Hundreds of wildfires have broken out across the state since October 1, burning more land than Massachusetts usually sees in an entire year. As firefighting efforts demand significant water resources, it's crucial for residents to practice aggressive indoor water conservation to maintain sufficient supply and pressure in public water systems.   

“About 200 cities and towns have implemented local bans on any outdoor fires under Section 10.10.2 of the State Fire Code,” said State Fire Marshal Jon M. Davine. “We’re reminding all residents to follow the state and municipal guidance on fire protection because in the current drought conditions any outdoor fire is likely to catch, spread, and threaten people and property. Every firefighter battling a preventable wildfire is one who can’t respond to a house fire, car crash, or medical emergency.”  

"The combination of drought conditions and dry fuel conditions means that we continue to be at high risk of wildfires across Massachusetts. We urge everyone to exercise caution and remember, even a small spark can ignite a larger fire in these conditions," said Department of Conservation and Recreation Chief Fire Warden Dave Celino. "We all have a role to play in reducing the risk of new fires by following local fire restrictions and practicing responsible water conservation to ensure firefighters across the state have the resources we need to combat these fires."     

The Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection (MassDEP) will continue to provide technical assistance to communities in managing systems, including assistance on the use of emergency connections and water supplies.  

It is important to note that the Massachusetts Water Resources Authority (MWRA) water supply system is not experiencing drought conditions, as defined within its individual plan. However, private well users and other sources of water within the same MWRA serviced communities are impacted by drought conditions. 

All sources of water, regardless of their location or type of withdrawal, ultimately draw from the same river basin. This means that the water in private wells often originates from the same source as the public water supply in that basin. During this critical drought and with decreasing groundwater levels, water levels in private wells can also decline and those on private wells are also strongly urged to conserve water as outlined below.  

Below are recommendations for communities and individuals living and working within a Level 3 – Critical Drought region, including those utilizing a private well. Residents and businesses are also asked to check with their local water system in case more stringent watering restrictions are in place.  

For Regions in Level 3 – Critical Drought  

Residents and Businesses: 

• Minimize overall water use  
• Follow state water conservation actions and any local water use restrictions 
• Monitor total household water use shown on your water bill for sudden increases, which often indicate leaks. Use the MA Home Water Use Calculator tool  to evaluate household water use. 
• Fix any toilet or faucet leaks immediately. Check for leaks in homes and businesses regularly by: 
• Checking water meters for constant dial movement 
• Using dye tabs to check for toilet leaks 
• Conducting regular inspections of all pipes and fixtures, including those located in utility rooms, crawlspaces, and other hidden areas 
• Use dishwashers rather than handwashing dishes. Run the dishwasher only on a full load 
• Aggressively reduce indoor water use by  
• Reducing shower length and consider using a shower timer 
• Running washing machines only on a full load  
• Not letting water run while brushing and shaving  
• Replacing old fixtures and appliances with water-efficient ones. Make sure toilets, faucets, and showerheads are WaterSense-labeled
• Stop all non-essential water use 
• Be extra cautious with outdoor fires, grills, and flammable materials  

Immediate Steps for Communities: 

• Provide timely information on the drought and on water conservation tips to local residents and businesses taking advantage of the state’s library of outreach materials 
• Enforce water use restrictions with increasingly stringent penalties 
• Strongly discourage or prohibit washing of hard surfaces (sidewalks, patios, driveways, siding); personal vehicle or boat washing 
• Establish or enhance water-use reduction targets for all water users, identify top water users and conduct targeted outreach to help curb their use   

Short- and Medium-Term Steps for Communities: 

• Establish a year-round water conservation program that includes public education and communication, taking advantage of the state’s library of outreach materials 
• Implement or establish drought surcharge or seasonal water rates 
• Prepare to activate emergency inter-connections for water supply 
• Develop or refine your local drought management plan using guidance outlined in the state Drought Management Plan   

Officials remind everyone to follow these outdoor fire prevention steps: 

• Remember that burning yard waste is prohibited statewide through January and in many communities year-round. Even during open burning season, it always requires a permit and burning leaves is not allowed. 
• Refrain from outdoor cooking and heating. Sparks and embers from chimineas, fire pits, and grills can easily ignite dry vegetation, debris, and overhanging branches.  
• Use caution with lawnmowers, leaf blowers, all-terrain vehicles, and other power equipment. Hot engines, sparks, and spilled gasoline can ignite dry leaves and grass.  
• Dispose of ashes from fireplaces and wood stoves in a metal can, douse them with water, and cover them with a tight-fitting lid. These ashes can remain hot enough to ignite combustibles long after the fire goes out: never dump them outdoors or in the trash.  
• Extinguish smoking materials in a sturdy ashtray with water or sand. Never toss cigarette butts, matches, or other smoking materials over the edge of a balcony, stub them out on stairs or railings, or toss them in dry vegetation or debris.   

State agencies will continue to closely monitor and assess conditions across the state, coordinate any needed dissemination of information to the public, and help federal, state, and local agencies prepare additional responses that may be needed in the future. The Drought Management Task Force will meet again on Thursday, December 5, 2024, at 10:00 AM. For further information on water conservation and what residents can do, visit the EEA’s drought and water conservation pages.  

MAYOR WU ANNOUNCES HOUSING ACCELERATOR FUND

 MAYOR WU ANNOUNCES HOUSING ACCELERATOR FUND

Bunker Hill Redevelopment will be first project to benefit from investment in jumpstarting housing production

BOSTON – Tuesday, November 19, 2024 - Mayor Michelle Wu today announced she will be filing a $110 million appropriation to create the City’s Housing Accelerator Fund at the next City Council meeting on December 4, 2024. The new fund is intended to kickstart the production of housing by closing financing gaps for projects that have already been approved but have been unable to start construction. The Housing Accelerator Fund is supported by unrestricted prior-year budgetary fund balance, and the City’s investment will be matched by the Commonwealth’s Housing Momentum Fund. Mayor Wu made the announcement at the Bunker Hill Redevelopment in Charlestown. The mixed-income units already permitted through the Boston Housing Authority’s public-private partnership with Leggat McCall Properties at Bunker Hill will be the first project to benefit from the fund.

“Boston’s housing crisis is the biggest stress on families across our neighborhoods, so we need to do everything possible for more housing and more affordability,” said Mayor Michelle Wu. “Our Housing Accelerator Fund will wisely use City dollars to jumpstart new projects and then return those funds back to the City once the projects are financed, supporting public-private partnerships for housing, private development, and home ownership. Thank you to City Councilors, colleagues at the state level, and housing partners for collaborating to innovate and find new approaches to meet the needs of our community.”

The Bunker Hill redevelopment project, which broke ground on its first building in June 2023, is a multi-phase public-private partnership among the Joseph J. Corcoran Company, Leggat McCall, the Boston Housing Authority and the Charlestown Resident Alliance (CRA), which will replace 1,100 public housing units with 2,699 units with a mix of public, income-restricted, and market rate rental units. This model of mixed-income housing is ideal for supporting healthy, diverse communities. The project also includes 73,000 square feet of retail and civic uses, off-street parking, and new public open space to support residents and the Charlestown community.

The next phase of Bunker Hill’s Redevelopment, which will be funded through the Housing Accelerator Fund, will be a nine-story, 265-unit mixed-income building, including 58 new affordable units. These affordable units will be a mix of one, two, and three-bedroom apartments throughout the building. Like the first building now nearing completion, it will be built to passive house standards, the highest standard for energy efficiency in new construction. The next phase of Bunker Hill’s redevelopment is expected to begin construction in mid to late 2025.

“We are eager to turn our attention to the second building of the project and are grateful for the collaborative effort of Mayor Wu, the City Council, and the BHA to make this appropriation a reality,” said Adelaide Grady, Bunker Hill Housing Redevelopment Executive Director and Senior Vice President/Partner at Leggat McCall Properties. “The timing of this enables us keep up the momentum following the first building as we work closely with the BHA and CRA to quickly start construction on the next new homes for Bunker Hill families.”

In the coming months, the City will partner with the Commonwealth to identify additional projects that meet City and State priorities of affordability, climate resilience, and equity to participate in the Housing Accelerator Fund and the state’s Momentum Fund, which was created in the housing bond bill that became law earlier this year. The Commonwealth will provide both underwriting support and matching funds through MassHousing. Developers with projects that have already been approved by the Planning Department and meet MassHousing’s statutory requirement of 20 percent affordability can apply for equity investments from the Commonwealth and City through MassHousing application process. Qualified applicants will be identified by the City in partnership with MassHousing.

“NAIOP is grateful to the Wu Administration for recognizing the challenges facing housing production in Boston,” said Tamara Small, CEO of NAIOP Massachusetts, The Commercial Real Estate Development Association. “Supporting market rate housing development is critical to addressing the housing crisis, and today I am pleased to stand with Secretary Augustus, Mayor Wu, and the entire City of Boston as this new tool is implemented.”

In addition to partnering with the State to move much needed rental housing into construction quickly, the City will also work with small and large scale developers in Boston to identify potential opportunities to use this fund or similar models to accelerate the creation of approved, new middle income homeownership housing opportunities. Through the work of the Boston Home Center and related programs, the City is committed to advancing pathways to stable homeownership for Bostonians. The Wu administration has invested more in creating and expanding homeownership opportunities than any previous administration. 

“The Housing Accelerator Fund is an innovative tool in our toolbox that will add to our options and strategies, like the state’s Momentum Fund and incentives for office-to-housing conversion programs,” said City Council President Ruthzee Louijeune. “Creative initiatives like these send a strong message that Boston is working with our development partners to find shared solutions to our affordability, housing, and sustainability goals.”

“We have an opportunity with this development fund to invest in home ownership in a way that has never been done before. This will create stability in our neighborhoods, and the byproduct of that stability is going to be wealth for our residents,” Councilor Brian Worrell (District 4) said. “I’m proud to stand alongside the mayor on this commitment to get shovels in the ground and cranes in the sky. This is a clear signal that Boston is serious about housing production.”

Today’s announcement is a major step in making Boston a home for everyone. Under Mayor Wu’s leadership, the City has permitted 8,679 new housing units—nearly a third of which are income-restricted—and approved an additional 16,185 units. Her commitment to streamlining processes led to significant improvements, including reducing approval times for affordable housing by 68% and modernizing development reviews for greater transparency and equity. Mayor Wu has championed innovative zoning initiatives to create mixed-use and diverse housing options across neighborhoods and led efforts to convert underutilized City-owned land into nearly 1,400 new income-restricted units. Additionally, she has expanded financial assistance for homebuyers and created more opportunities for first-time and BIPOC homeowners. Through comprehensive anti-displacement measures, strategic public investments, and a focus on affordable homeownership, Mayor Wu is building a more inclusive, stable, and sustainable housing future for Boston. 

The source for the $110 million appropriation is unrestricted, prior-year budgetary fund balance, known as free cash. As a non-recurring revenue source, free cash should be restricted to support one-time, non-recurring expenditures, such as this one-time investment in housing creation. As of June 30, 2023, the City of Boston has a free cash balance of approximately $515 million, as certified by the state Department of Revenue. The City will have its free cash certified again in spring 2025, based on the fiscal year end June 30, 2024.

Governor Healey Signs Executive Order Granting State Recognition to Herring Pond Wampanoag Tribe

 Governor Healey Signs Executive Order Granting State Recognition to Herring Pond Wampanoag Tribe 

In recognition of Native American Heritage Month, Governor also visited Mashpee Wampanoag Tribe and unveiled Native American art exhibition in State House 

BOSTON – During Native American Heritage Month, Governor Maura Healey today issued an Executive Order granting state recognition to the Herring Pond Wampanoag Tribe. The Tribe of about 200 members, headquartered in Plymouth, has been a distinct, cohesive and autonomous tribal community existing in Massachusetts for centuries. Since the 17^th century and before, the Herring Pond Wampanoag Tribe has continuously inhabited lands within the borders of what is now Massachusetts, with ancestral homelands stretching from the Plymouth area to the upper reaches of Cape Cod. This Executive Order will allow the Tribe to establish government-to-government relationship with the state. 

“During Native American Heritage Month, and always, we celebrate the vibrant and enduring traditions, knowledge and strength of indigenous communities. The Herring Pond Wampanoag Tribe has been living in and contributing to our Massachusetts communities since long before the Mayflower’s arrival,” said Governor Maura Healey. “Our administration deeply appreciates our strong ties with the indigenous tribes across our state, and this Executive Order gives Herring Pond Wampanoag the recognition they deserve.” 

“All of our communities are stronger when we work together. This Executive Order ensures that the state will maintain a working partnership with the Herring Pond Wampanoag Tribe, as we do with other tribes,” said Lieutenant Governor Kim Driscoll. “Our administration is proud of our partnerships with the Native American community, and we’re excited to continuing to lift of the traditions and contributions of indigenous tribes throughout the state.” 

"As Chairwoman of the Herring Pond Wampanoag Tribe, I am deeply moved and extend our heartfelt gratitude to Governor Maura Healey for her steadfast support and commitment to the Wampanoag Nation and to all Indigenous Tribes of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts,” said Chairwoman Melissa (Harding) Ferretti. “This recognition not only reaffirms our rightful place in the history of this country, highlighting our integral role in its creation it acknowledges the profound contributions of the Herring Pond Wampanoag Tribe and honors the legacy of our ancestors who came before us"  

Today, Governor Healey, Environmental Justice and Equity Undersecretary María Belén Power and DCR Indigenous People’s Partnership Coordinator Leah Hopkins also visited the Mashpee Wampanoag Tribe to tour their reservation, including the Mashpee Wampanoag Tribal Museum, Mashpee Wampanoag Tribal Museum, and the Mashpee Wampanoag Tribal Community and Government Center.  

This month, the Governor is also displaying an art installment showcasing the work of Native American artists in the reception area of her office in the State House. This is part of her ongoing display of art by diverse artists in partnership with the Mass Cultural Council, including Black Tie by Robert T. Freeman and At the Tremont Street Car Barns by Allan Rohan Crite, which are on loan from the Museum of Fine Arts, and temporary exhibitions celebrating Black History, Climate Month, Pride Month, the Cape & Islands and Hispanic Heritage Month. 

The Healey-Driscoll Administration has a strong relationship with Massachusetts’ indigenous tribes and has prioritized programs to support their economic wellbeing. The Commission on Indian Affairs, housed under the Executive Office of Housing and Livable Communities, assists Native American in Massachusetts with their relationship with state and local government agencies and advises the state in matters pertaining to Native Americans. The Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs (EEA), through its Office of Environmental Justice and Equity (OEJE) and the Municipal Vulnerability Preparedness (MVP) program, has worked hand-in-hand to ensure Tribal and Indigenous communities’ voices are heard at decision-making tables, and state and federal funds are directed to them. EEA recently initiated a new grant program that offers financial assistance to Massachusetts tribal governments and partnering conservation organizations to acquire land to support restoration of tribal relationships to their ancestral land. Town of Mashpee has been working in partnership with the Mashpee Wampanoag Tribe on a project to increase water quality in Santuit Pond through the MVP program. The Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR) also hired its first-ever Indigenous People’s Partnership Coordinator, Leah Hopkins, who is responsible for maintaining meaningful relationships and improving the understanding and collaboration between the state’s conservation agency and Indigenous communities across Massachusetts. 

The artists with work on display in the Governor’s Office include: 

About Robert Peters: 

Robert Peters is a Mashpee Wampanoag artist, poet and author, muralis and screenwriter whose work reflects on the historical contemporary experiences of indigenous peoples in the Northeast. His art is all about heritage and personal history as his paintings often depict traditional Wampanoag elements, the intersection of nature and spirituality. His work has been featured in various exhibitions and publications. His father was a prominent figure in their tribe’s efforts to reclaim land and declare their sovereignty. His work, Three Sisters, is in display in the Governor’s Reception.   

About Erin Genia: 

Erin Genia, a citizen of the Sisseton-Wahpeton Oyate, is a multidisciplinary artist, educator and cultural organizer, whose practice merges cultural imperatives, pure expression and material exploration with the conceptual. Genia seeks to create a powerful presence of Indigeneity in the arts, sciences, and public realm to invoke an evolution of thought and practice within societal instruments that is aligned with the cycles of the natural world and the potential of humanity. Erin graduated from the Art, Culture and Technology program at MIT, and teaches at the School of the Museum of Fine Arts at Tufts. Her work has been seen by national and international audiences, including the US Pavilion - Venice Biennale, and on the International Space Station.  Erin served as artist-in-residence for the city of Boston and currently serves as an artist-in-residence with GreenRoots in Chelsea, for the large-scale climate mitigation initiative, the Island End River Project. His work, Mni Omni/ Whirlpool, is in display in the Governor’s Reception.

About Anthony Melting Tallow: 

Anthony Melting Tallow is a member of the Blackfoot nation. His work centers on land dispossession, residential school trauma, reframing indigenous voices, misappropriation of native imagery and violence against indigenous women. The themes of his art are hope, resilience and fighting. He is a resident of Chicopee, Massachusetts who engages in political activism, cultural education, and creative voice. His work, Pop Art Sitting Bull and Chief Deep Sky, are in display in the Governor’s Reception.   

Healey-Driscoll Administration, UMass Lowell and Boston University Launch New Initiative to Advance Clean Energy and Build Geothermal Workforce

Healey-Driscoll Administration, UMass Lowell and Boston University Launch New Initiative to Advance Clean Energy and Build Geothermal Workforce 

Clean Energy & Environment Legacy Transition (CELT) Initiative resulted from Governor Healey’s trip to Ireland, aims to enhance environmental equity and promote sustainable energy solutions 

 

BOSTON – The Healey-Driscoll Administration launched the Clean Energy and Environment Legacy Transition (CELT) Initiative, a significant development resulting from Governor Maura Healey’s trip to Ireland last year. 

During the trip, Governor Healey, members of her administration and representatives from UMass Lowell participated in an Energy and Sustainability Roundtable, where they discussed successful university-industry partnerships supported by the Irish government. Inspired by the Science Foundation Ireland (SFI) Research Centre for Energy, Climate, and Marine (MaREI) model, the Healey-Driscoll Administration collaborated with UMass Lowell and Boston University to establish a similar program to advance the clean energy transition, aid cities and towns in their decarbonization efforts, and foster geothermal workforce development. 

“Our trip to Ireland focused on forging impactful strategic partnerships and strengthening our economic ties, and with this initiative we are doing just that,” said Governor Healey. “Geothermal energy is a vital step toward reducing our reliance on fossil fuels and achieving our climate goals. With the remarkable talent of our students, we have the innovative spirit to drive transformative change and create a sustainable future.” 

“Many municipalities struggle with limited resources for energy transition projects, but partnerships with universities can energize local communities and boost Massachusetts’ economy,” said Lieutenant Governor Kim Driscoll. “This collaboration provides students with practical training in renewable energy while delivering essential support to municipalities ready to tap into geothermal energy.” 

The CELT Initiative, which is backed by $5.7 million in funding from the Department of Energy Resources (DOER), will establish a resource center focused on clean energy. This program intends to promote equity in the state’s clean energy and climate solutions by leveraging university expertise alongside industry innovation, with support from state and community partners. As part of this initiative, graduate student fellows will be placed in municipalities to assist with clean energy planning and project implementation.  

Additionally, graduate students will be deployed in the Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs’ (EEA) Office of Energy Transformation (OET) to conduct policy and data analysis to enhance the adoption of networked geothermal systems. 

“We are fully committed to affordability and real clean energy solutions. Geothermal energy offers a reliable, cost-effective way to combat rising energy costs, providing long-term savings for residents,” said Energy & Environmental Affairs Secretary Rebecca Tepper. “This first step is about building the workforce and expanding on successful pilot projects in Lowell and Framingham. Our goal is to make clean energy smarter, more efficient, and accessible to everyone.” 

“This initiative puts equity at the forefront of Massachusetts' clean energy and climate goals, with geothermal energy as one of the key solutions,” said DOER Commissioner Elizabeth Mahony. “By harnessing robust university partnerships, we will maximize our impact and create a sustainable future that serves all communities.” 

“With CELT, we will be able to build a global workforce that will respond to issues and opportunities around climate, energy, and sustainability, all while delivering direct benefits to the Commonwealth and its residents,” said UMass President Marty Meehan. “Thanks to the leadership of Governor Healey and Lieutenant Governor Driscoll, UMass Lowell is positioned to help create a more sustainable Commonwealth that will serve as a model across the nation and the world. We are pleased UMass is a part of this transformative initiative.” 

“UMass Lowell, through its Rist Institute for Sustainability and Energy, is uniquely positioned to use its expertise in climate tech and sustainability to help municipalities across Massachusetts implement a transition to clean energy and educate the workforce needed to make Massachusetts a global clean tech leader,” said UMass Lowell Chancellor Julie Chen. “Governor Healey’s trade mission to Ireland presented a dynamic opportunity to enhance and strengthen the Commonwealth’s international research and innovation partnerships. UMass Lowell’s long-standing partnership with University College Cork, a recognized global leader in climate, energy, and sustainability, has been integral to our approach with CELT. We look forward to working in partnership with the Healey-Driscoll Administration and with our partners at Boston University on the implementation of our shared goals at the local, national, and international level.” 

“CELT further attests to Massachusetts’ leadership on climate and clean energy, and Boston University is proud to bring our expertise in sustainability and data science to this research collaboration with the Healey-Driscoll Administration and UMass Lowell,” said Boston University Provost Gloria Waters. “Spearheading our efforts will be the BU Institute for Global Sustainability, which is uniquely positioned to enable communities across the state to better leverage data for decarbonization decision making that benefits everyone.” 

The CELT Initiative, in collaboration with DOER, will assist communities in reducing carbon emissions, focusing on several areas: 

• Equitable Decarbonization: CELT will support state and municipal efforts toward equitable decarbonization by providing on-demand technical assistance to municipalities, community leaders, and industries lacking capacity or expertise. This initiative aims to foster informed local clean energy transitions and enhance municipalities' ability to secure state and federal support. 

• Geothermal Energy Projects: Partnering with the Municipal Vulnerability Preparedness (MVP) and Green Communities programs, CELT will help environmental justice communities plan and execute geothermal energy projects. A program will also place graduate students in municipalities to provide training and support, ensuring that smaller communities benefit from these initiatives. 

• Diverse Workforce Development: To address the need for skilled workers in geothermal and offshore wind sectors, CELT will analyze workforce needs and develop training programs in collaboration with industry, labor, and educational partners. This includes creating micro-credentials and certificate programs to enhance the geothermal workforce in Massachusetts. 

• Research and Innovation: CELT will engage in research partnerships with Irish universities to secure funding for projects focused on reducing greenhouse gas emissions and electric costs. 

Statements of Support 

Consul General of Ireland in Boston Síghle FitzGerald: 

“I welcome the Clean Energy and Environmental Legacy Transition Initiative announced this morning which represents an exciting outcome of Governor Healey’s trade mission to Ireland in 2023. I’m particularly pleased that the work of the Science Foundation Ireland (SFI) Research Centre for Energy, Climate, and Marine (MaREI) at University College Cork has been the catalyst for further collaboration between higher education institutions in Ireland and Massachusetts.” 

Jay Ash, President and CEO, Massachusetts Competitive Partnership: 

“Part of leading is learning, and we learned a lot from our visit to Ireland about a leading collaboration in the clean tech space. MACP is pleased to see the Healey-Driscoll Administration methodically taking the steps necessary to seek out best practices from other jurisdictions and add our own Massachusetts-brand of leadership to produce impactful results for our residents, our economy and, hopefully, our planet. Massachusetts has every right to compete and win in the still emerging clean energy and environment space. CELT will help us achieve those objectives and more.” 

Emily Reichert, CEO, Massachusetts Clean Energy Center: 

“Building and mobilizing a diverse clean energy workforce requires us to lean in and learn from international partners like our friends in Ireland. CELT is an exciting addition to the Commonwealth’s workforce development toolbox, and it will complement the MassCEC programs empowering clean energy workers and employers across Massachusetts." 

Mary Sugrue, CEO, Irish American Partnership:  

“We commend the Healey-Driscoll Administration on the launch of the CELT Initiative and the international partnerships that led to it. In drawing inspiration from the innovations at Science Foundation Ireland’s Research Centre and University College Cork, UMass Lowell and Boston University, along with the administration, have advanced the clean energy transition here in Massachusetts, bringing us closer to achieving climate goals. This collaboration enhances and strengthens the Commonwealth’s research and innovation partnerships across the Atlantic and we applaud the vision and leadership of all partners.” 

Nikki Bruno, Vice President of Clean Energy Technologies, Eversource: 

“Massachusetts is a national leader with its equity-focused approach to the clean energy transition, and this new initiative will help build on those efforts while supporting continued development of the highly skilled, diverse workforce we need to build our shared clean energy future. Our first-in-the-nation networked geothermal project in Framingham exemplifies Massachusetts’ leadership on innovation and collaboration, which also represents the great opportunity for workforce development in this space. We’re proud to work with the Administration and stakeholders across the commonwealth every day to achieve decarbonization goals in an equitable manner, and we look forward to the CELT initiative serving as a strong complement to our forward-looking approach in Massachusetts.”  

Adam Chapdelaine, Executive Director, Massachusetts Municipal Association: 

“We are very excited about the Clean Energy and Environmental Legacy Transition Initiative and the partnership behind it. Our members deeply appreciate any and all assistance to help them meet local climate and decarbonization goals, and the on-demand technical assistance to municipalities and outreach to smaller communities couldn’t come at a better time. We applaud the CELT’s approach to partner with existing grant programs that local governments know well, like MVP and Green Communities.”  

Joe Curtatone, President, The Alliance for Climate Transition: 

"The Healey-Driscoll Administration’s CELT Initiative exemplifies bold leadership and a forward-thinking approach to growing our economy and jobs, advancing clean energy, and environmental equity. By leveraging innovative partnerships with UMass Lowell and Boston University and drawing inspiration from innovation and leadership at the local level, this initiative not only positions Massachusetts as a leader in clean energy but also empowers communities and builds a diverse workforce essential for a thriving climate economy and sustainable future." 

Zeyneb Magavi, Executive Director, HEET: 

“This initiative aligns perfectly with the conversations we are having with people and organizations both in our communities here in Massachusetts and around the globe. The best way to accelerate a clean energy future is through collaboration and partnerships. We need a realistic plan to build a ready and diverse workforce and I believe the structure the Healey-Driscoll Administration has outlined with CELT will move us in that direction. We are grateful to the administration for this leading new initiative.”  

哥倫布公園燈光秀 11月25日開幕有表演

(Boston Orange編譯) 波士頓市北端 (North End)的哥倫布公園（Christopher Columbus Park）， 將於11 月 25 日下午5點，啟動第22屆棚架燈光秀，以5萬盞藍燈為波士頓佈置出一個有如仙境角落。

在波士頓歷史海濱大西洋大道 110 號公園舉行的這燈光秀，由H.P. Hood, LLC、樂高探索中心波士頓、波士頓名人系列、新英格蘭咖啡和藍人組合大力贊助與支持。

               活動由 Sean Stellato 主持，北端音樂和表演藝術中心（NEMPAC）的學生和教師，歌手Phadedra 和抒情男高音Miguel Cabrera ，東北大學無伴奏合唱團Pitch , Please! ，將分別表演精彩節目。聖誕老人和紅鼻子馴鹿魯道夫也將驚喜現身，為大人和孩子們帶來歡樂。

               現場還將提供豐富美食，包括H.P. Hood 的蛋奶酒、Joe's Waterfront 的蛤蜊濃湯、Drakes Cakes 的烘焙食品、新英格蘭咖啡，以及波士頓萬豪長碼頭的熱巧克力和餅乾，樂高探索中心波士頓展台還有季節性樂高積木搭建等活動，為遊客增添更多樂趣。

               在接下來的節日期間，波士頓公園和娛樂部還將舉辦一系列慶祝活動。 11 月 30 日，馬丁公園兒童碼頭海港步道的船舶將被點亮；12 月 5 日，波士頓公園聖誕樹亮燈儀式以及聯邦大道購物中心樹木亮燈活動將相繼舉行。值得一提的是，11 月26 日上午11 點左右，來自新斯科細亞省的2024 年官方聖誕樹將抵達波士頓公園，這棵30 年樹齡、45 英尺高的白雲杉由新斯科細亞省Mattie Settlement 的Liz 和Hugh Ryan 捐贈，屆時公眾可前往一同慶祝。

               更多節日活動詳情可訪問boston.gov/holidaylights，如需獲取波士頓公園最新消息和活動資訊，可訂閱郵件列表bit.ly/Get - Parks - Emails，或關注社交媒體渠道@bostonparksdept（推特、臉書和Instagram）。 

Columbus Park Trellis Lighting November 25

The Boston Parks and Recreation Department and the Friends of Christopher Columbus Park will host the 22nd annual holiday lighting of the trellis at Christopher Columbus Park in the North End on Monday, November 25, at 5 p.m.

Located at 110 Atlantic Avenue on Boston’s historic waterfront, Christopher Columbus Park will be transformed into a beautiful holiday display when the park and its trellis are illuminated with 50,000 blue lights.

The celebration is sponsored by H.P. Hood, LLC and the Friends of Christopher Columbus Park.  Additional support is provided by LEGO Discovery Center Boston, Celebrity Series of Boston,  New England Coffee, and the Blue Man Group. 

The trellis lighting ceremony at Columbus Park will feature a festive lineup of entertainment, with performances by students and instructors from the North End Music and Performing Arts Center (NEMPAC). Guests will enjoy holiday classics sung by vocalist Phadedra and the rich voice of lyric tenor Miguel Cabrera. Adding to the seasonal spirit, Northeastern University a cappella group, Pitch, Please!, will deliver unique renditions of holiday favorites. Special guests Santa Claus and Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer will make an appearance, delighting children and adults alike. The evening will be hosted by Sean Stellato, creating an unforgettable kickoff to the holiday season.

Refreshments will include eggnog from H.P. Hood, clam chowder from Joe's Waterfront, baked goods from Drakes Cakes, coffee from New England Coffee, and hot chocolate and cookies from the Boston Marriott Long Wharf.  Visit the LEGO Discovery Center Boston table for a seasonal LEGO build and more!

Other 2024 holiday celebrations hosted by the Boston Parks and Recreation Department include the lighting of the ship in Martin’s Park at the Children’s Wharf Harborwalk on November 30, and the Boston Common tree lighting followed by the lighting of the trees on Commonwealth Avenue Mall on December 5. 

The arrival of Boston’s official 2024 holiday tree from Nova Scotia will be celebrated on Boston Common at approximately 11 a.m. on November 26. This year’s tree is a 30-year-old, 45-foot-tall white spruce donated by Liz and Hugh Ryan of Mattie Settlement, Nova Scotia. 

Visit boston.gov/holidaylights for more information about the season’s festivities. To stay up to date with news and events in Boston parks, sign up for our email list at bit.ly/Get-Parks-Emails and follow our social channels @bostonparksdept on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram.

波士頓市擴張 (SCALE)補助款最高20萬元 12月16日截止收理申請

 

NEW DEADLINE! MONDAY, DECEMBER 16, 2024 Supplying Capital and Leveraging Education  Business Accelerator Program Grant Application Grant Summary The purpose of the SCALE program is to build businesses’ capacity to more effectively pursue government contracts. The program focuses on industry categories that represent a large share of the City of Boston’s purchases through competitive procurement. SCALE differs from other small business technical assistance programs in that it provides industry-specific technical assistance, business consulting, and capital advisory services. Technical assistance providers focus on capacity building activities, education, and training that is specific to the type of work each business performs. This grant program is a collaboration with the BDC Community Capital Corporation, which will manage and oversee its administration in partnership with technical assistance providers. After grant recipients are selected, BDC Community Capital Corporation and the technical assistance team will work with SCALE participants to develop a plan for utilizing the funding. The goal is to address key challenges that hinder their ability to secure larger institutional contracts or to identify investments that can help their businesses scale. Businesses who are accepted into the SCALE program will receive a grant award of up to $200,000 divided between two disbursements: up to $50k disbursed prior to the recipient entering the 3 to 6 month technical assistance program, and the remainder disbursed to the recipient on the condition that they complete the full SCALE program. The grant program funding, provided by the American Rescue Plan Act, is anticipated to total $5 million and will be disbursed in the beginning of 2025. Important Note: Your business must be located in Boston, MA to qualify.  Session 1 Registration Session 2 Registration APPLY NOW