Governor’s Council to Address Sexual Assault, Domestic Violence and Human Trafficking Releases Biennial Report

 Governor’s Council to Address Sexual Assault, Domestic Violence and Human Trafficking Releases Biennial Report  

BOSTON –Today, the Governor’s Council to Address Sexual Assault, Domestic Violence and Human Trafficking (GCSADVHT) released its first Biennial Report of the Healey-Driscoll Administration highlighting accomplishments from January 2022-2024 and outlining recommendations for the next two years.   

“These recommendations will help us enhance public safety, prevent these horrible crimes, and support survivors,” said Governor Maura Healey. “I look forward to reviewing the recommendations and am deeply grateful for the hard work of this Council, including Lieutenant Governor Driscoll and Executive Director Vilma Uribe, to protect the safety and wellbeing of the people of Massachusetts.” 

“As Chair, I’ve worked closely with the advocates and experts on the Council to prevent and address sexual assault, domestic violence, and human trafficking,” said Lieutenant Governor Driscoll, Chair of the Governor’s Council to Address Sexual Assault, Domestic Violence and Human Trafficking. “This report and these recommendations are informed by their collective expertise and offer concrete, actionable solutions that can improve outcomes for survivors. Through this work, we are reminded that behind every statistic is a human story — a life forever altered by violence and exploitation. This report serves as an opportunity to directly impact those stories.”  

The report details the Council’s accomplishments and initiatives over the last two years and provides a series of recommendations to help inform the next two years of the Council’s work. Those recommendations align with the Council’s six subcommittees – Assessment and Response; Early Interventions; Economic Mobility; Housing Stability; Human Trafficking; and Veterans, Military, and Families. These recommendations are meant to advise the Governor on how to help residents of the state live a life free of sexual assault, domestic violence and human trafficking by improving prevention for all, enhancing support for affected individuals and families, and insisting on accountability for perpetrators.  

“I am incredibly grateful to work alongside dedicated advocates who are committed to improving the lives of those affected by domestic violence, sexual violence, and human trafficking. The recommendations in the report address some of the most pressing needs of survivors, as identified by both survivors and advocates throughout the state. We hope that these recommendations drive meaningful change in the lives of those impacted by gender-based violence,” said Executive Director of the GCSADVHT Vilma Uribe.   

Over the last two years, the Council has launched several initiatives focused on improving the lives of survivors in Massachusetts and has supported legislative action aimed at supporting survivors and strengthening protections. These accomplishments include:  

• Roundtables: The Council has facilitated roundtable discussions with advocates, experts and community leaders across the state about how to better serve and support survivors. These roundtables centered stories from those with lived experience and featured discussions with key stakeholders on how Massachusetts can continue to be a partner on this work. The Council hosted four roundtables in 2024: Survivor Listening Session, Immigrant and New Arrival Communities Roundtable, Campus Sexual Assault Law/Title IX 5th Anniversary Roundtable and LGBTQIA+ Communities Roundtable. 

• Human Trafficking Prevention and Response: The Council led the development of a comprehensive statewide plan on Massachusetts' approach to addressing sex trafficking. In collaboration with the Attorney General's Human Trafficking Taskforce, the plan aims to strengthen the state's capacity to identify and address sex trafficking cases while ensuring survivors receive the necessary resources and support for recovery. 

• Law Enforcement Guidelines Update: Beginning in March 2024, the Council launched a comprehensive update to the Domestic Violence Law Enforcement Guidelines, representing a critical shift in how law enforcement responds to domestic violence cases. The revised guidelines aim to improve officer response, risk assessment, and coordination with victim service providers. Particular attention was given to cultural competency, language access, and the unique needs of marginalized communities. The update process involved input from a diverse group of stakeholders to ensure an effective, inclusive approach. 

• RESPECTfully Campaign Expansion: In 2024, the RESPECTfully Campaign entered a new phase, expanding its focus to include healthy relationship breakups—both platonic and romantic. This public education initiative primarily targets Massachusetts youth ages 12-18, with secondary audiences including youth-serving organizations, parents, caregivers, and educational institutions. The RESPECTFully Subcommittee convened providers working directly with youth and a youth advisory committee to inform and develop the campaign.  

Informed by their continuous work in the community and consulting with experts, advocates and researchers, the Council has released the following recommendations for policy and practice improvements over the next two years, addressing the complex needs of those affected by sexual assault, domestic violence, and human trafficking in Massachusetts: 

• Assessment and Response: The Subcommittee recommends ways to improve criminal justice and community-based responses to address and reduce domestic violence by increasing referrals to Intimate Partner Abuse Education Programs and improving the practices of domestic violence high-risk teams. 

• Early Intervention Subcommittee: The Subcommittee recommends solutions meant to increase safety and well-being for children and families, emphasizing evidence-based, trauma-informed referrals to services and treatment within all communities. Those recommendations include additional training programs and improved workforce pipeline for Behavioral Health and Education Professionals, establishing a youth trauma care advisory committee with clinical experts, and implementing inclusive healthy relationship education in schools. 

• Economic Mobility: The Subcommittee focuses on finding ways to increase the economic success of victims and survivors of sexual violence, domestic violence, and trafficking by increasing awareness of and access to available resources in a trauma-informed way. Their recommendations include integrating lived experiences and survivor stories into benefits cliff analysis and research, including survivors as a priority population for MassMobility, and improving workforce access for survivors. 

• Housing Stability: The Subcommittee aims to develop creative housing, housing stability, and homelessness prevention strategies for survivors of sexual assault, domestic violence, and human trafficking (SADVHT). Their recommendations include expanding the training opportunities available to advocates (on housing) and housing providers (on SADVHT), expanding housing resources available to survivors, and changing state housing policies to expand housing protections for survivors. 

• Human Trafficking: Established by Governor Healey, the Subcommittee is working to develop a comprehensive strategy to combat sex trafficking in Massachusetts. This initiative combines both research and action-based approaches to address the issue. The strategy operates on three fundamental objectives: (1) strengthening prevention efforts, (2) enhancing support for those impacted by human trafficking, and (3) holding perpetrators accountable. The Plan seeks to create tangible solutions and concrete steps to fight human trafficking across Massachusetts. Beyond the development and execution of the Plan, the Subcommittee also recommends additional Human Trafficking awareness training to transportation personnel and the establishment of a Labor Trafficking Subcommittee.  

• Military, Veterans, and Families: The Subcommittee’s goal is to ensure seamless access to domestic and sexual violence prevention and response services for military members (past and present) and their families. This includes comprehensive training for civilian and military entities to ensure that service referrals are trauma-informed, well-equipped, and timely. 

波士頓市推出2500萬元「收購基金」 頭5年將保500戶住宅 可負擔 (市府視頻)

波士頓市長吳弭宣佈推出「波士頓收購基金」。

                     (Boston Orange綜合報導) 波士頓市長吳弭12月12日率同政府官員、機構首長在市長辦公室老鷹室宣佈，推出「波士頓收購基金 (Boston Acquisition Fund) 」，期以支持非牟利機構以市價購買市內住宅，使成為永久性的可負擔住宅，穩定房屋市場價格。基金籌款目標2500萬元。

麻州房屋投資公司 (MHIC)執行長Moddie Turay發言。該公司將管理「波士頓收購基金」。

                     「波士頓收購基金」目前已募得1300萬元，其中500萬元來自波士頓市政府，800萬元來自地方組織，MGB  (Mass General Brigham)、波士頓醫療中心、波士頓基金會、波士頓兒童醫院，Barr基金會，達娜法柏癌症研究機構 (Dana-Farber Cancer Institute)、波士頓醫療中心、貝斯以色列醫療中心 (Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center)、東方銀行、塔芙茨醫學院 (Tufts Medicine)等大醫院，以及非牟利機構。麻州房屋投資公司 (MHIC)將負責管理，用這筆錢來提供低利率貸款給發展商，非牟利機構，以市價購買市內住宅單位，再以可負擔價格出售或出租給有需要人士，以降低人們流離失所的機率，穩定社區內的住房市場。

波士頓基金會執行長Lee Pelton。

                  此外，「波士頓收購基金」也志在永久性的”自然形成”可負擔住宅脫離投機市場，同時促進地方上開發團隊的多元化。波士頓市政府會在達成留住現有佔住者，限制租金上漲的協議後，發放補助。

                  波士頓市府表示，這個新基金將可支持購買500各單位，在頭5年就幫助約1500人，避免流離失所的可能。這筆經費設計得有如”公私合營循環貸款 (public-private revolving loan)”，用於貸款的錢在收回來之後，會再貸出去支持下一筆購買行動。

波士頓房屋長Sheila Dillon回答提問。

                     波士頓市早從2016年就推出了「收購機會計畫 (Acquisition Opportunity Program)」，迄今共用了9000萬元經費，已收購了大約1000戶可負擔住宅。

             麻州參議會民主黨員 (The Massachusetts Senate Democrats)在今年6月時也宣佈過，有5年50億元的房屋債券法案，將撥款8億元給麻州的可負擔住宅信託基金，支持中等收入家庭置辦房屋。

                   (Boston Orange) 波士頓市長吳弭 (Michelle Wu) 和合作夥伴今 (12)日中午在波士頓市市長辦公室宣佈，推出「波士頓收購基金」，將在公私機構合作下，致力解決波士頓市面對的房屋危機，保護居民免於流離失所。

              吳弭市長指出，經由各合作夥伴的同心協力，波士頓市將為本地，抱有使命感的與開發商提供由公家、私人資金支援的低息貸款，以幫助他們在波士頓社區購買和保留可負擔住宅，並穩定波士頓居民的住房。

波士頓收購基金奠立於吳市長為使波士頓成為每個人的家所做的努力上。該計劃迄今為止已在波士頓保留了 1,000 多個負擔得起的單元。

出席宣佈儀式的合作夥伴包括:

Sarah G. Kim 將出任麻州高等法院副法官

Sarah G. Kim。 (圖片來自AALAM)

             (Boston Orange 綜合編譯) 麻州亞裔律師協會 (AALAM) 發文恭喜11月6日獲州長提名的Sarah G. Kim，甫於12月11日得到州長的委員會無異議通過，將出任麻州高等法院副法官。

              韓裔的Sarah G. Kim目前擔任麻州財政廳的副廳長，也是麻州財政及收款總監辦公室的總法律顧問。之前她還擔任過大麻管制局代理主席，麻州總檢察官辦公室詐欺及金融犯罪小組助理總檢察官。她曾在Bingham McCutchen擔任訴訟律師約10年，經辦民事訴訟個案，協助客戶面對和違反證券法有關的各種調查。她還曾經擔任過多年的麻州亞裔律師協會會長，反家庭暴力工作小組 (ATASK) 的董事會主席。

              目前Sarah G. Kim還是波士頓男子及女子童子軍俱樂部董事，波士頓華埠社區中心 (BCNC)董事。

              Sarah G. Kim畢業於達特茅斯學院，以及Villanova大學法學院。

              麻州有最高法院、上訴法院、高等法院、區域法院、波士頓市政府院、青少年法院、土地法院、遺產及家事法院等不同種類的法院。高等法院主要掌理大型民事及刑事案件。

麻州曾經同時有8名亞裔法官，但在余達明從昆士市地方法院法官，以及Fernade R. V. Duffly從最高法院法官席位上退休以來，前有Jason Chan在前州長查理貝克 (Charlie Baker) 任內獲指派為區域法院副法官，現有Sarah G. Kim在現任州長Maura Healey任內獲指派為高等法院副法官。麻州內現有多少亞裔法官還待確認。

Healey-Driscoll Administration Awards $12.4 Million to Support Behavioral Health Workforce

 Healey-Driscoll Administration Awards $12.4 Million to Support Behavioral Health Workforce 

Funds issued to students pursuing careers treating mental health or substance use disorders 

BOSTON – The Healey-Driscoll Administration announced today that they have issued $12.4 million through the Behavioral Health Trust Fund to 37 colleges and universities to financially support behavioral health students completing unpaid internships and field placements. These grants are for undergraduate and graduate-level students pursuing careers treating mental health or substance use disorders and are part of the state’s efforts to grow a culturally and linguistically diverse behavioral health workforce in Massachusetts.  

“Massachusetts needs more qualified behavioral health professionals, and our administration is committed to supporting students eager to do this work,” said Governor Maura Healey. “By investing in students looking to treat those experiencing mental health and substance use challenges, we’re investing in the long-term health and wellness of communities across Massachusetts.”  

“We want Massachusetts residents to be able to access qualified behavioral health professionals when and where they and their families need them, and that will only happen if we lift barriers for entering this field,” said Lieutenant Governor Kim Driscoll. “One crucial step to creating a strong behavioral health workforce is making earning a degree financially feasible for students driven to fill the roles.” 

Many behavioral health degree and certificate programs require workplace-based internships, apprenticeships, or practicum credit hours as a condition for program completion. Required field placements play a central role in helping students prepare to serve as behavioral health practitioners, but these experiences are often unpaid and often require students to sacrifice paid work. To support students pursing these careers, the funding is going to colleges with behavioral health degrees that require field placements, with a focus on institutions in geographic areas that are priorities for advancing health equity.  

“By lifting financial barriers for students pursuing behavioral health degrees, we are encouraging a more diverse student body to enter this field, which helps us create a more diverse workforce to meet the needs of residents from various backgrounds,” said Education Secretary Dr. Patrick Tutwiler. “We’re proud to launch a program that helps those looking to help others.”  

“A good internship or field placement can teach a person much-needed skills and help them gain experiences that last long into that individual’s career,” said Health and Human Services Secretary Kate Walsh. “I am grateful this funding gives us the chance to support people financially, which not only helps build a more diverse workforce but also ensures people reach the right behavioral health services when and where they need it. Building a stronger workforce that does not have to worry about financial limitations means we can help every person and community throughout Massachusetts get the care they need and in a way that truly makes a difference.”  

The behavioral health internship funds are being issued to campuses as grants to be distributed to qualifying students over a two-year period and can be applied to internships being completed in the 2024-2025 academic year and 2025-2026 academic year. Students at the awarded institutions who may be eligible for the funding should speak with their program advisor and financial aid office. 

“Internships help behavioral health graduates prepare to serve community members on day one, and these funds will lessen the financial burden of completing these essential learning experiences,” said Commissioner of Higher Education Noe Ortega. “The more we make entering the behavioral health workforce possible, the more we can create a pipeline of talented professionals prepared to serve residents across the Commonwealth.”   

This funding is from the Behavioral Health Trust Fund that was established by the state with American Rescue Plan Act funds and is managed by the Secretary of Health and Human Services. The Behavioral Health Trust Fund was a recommendation of the Behavioral Health Advisory Commission, which was comprised of 22 members from government and the behavioral health sector. Funds are used for addressing barriers to the delivery of an equitable, culturally competent, affordable, and clinically appropriate continuum of behavioral health care and services. 

“This program is a strong step to make working in behavioral health more accessible for Massachusetts students,” said Senate President Karen E. Spilka (D-Ashland). “This is an investment in homegrown talent that will help alleviate the workforce shortages in our behavioral health system. I’m grateful to the Healey-Driscoll Administration for dispensing these funds, and look forward to seeing these young people make a difference in our state.” 

Massachusetts’ public and private colleges and universities receiving funds include: 

• American International College: $310,000  

• Anna Maria College: $130,000  

• Assumption University: $170,000  

• Bay Path University: $695,000  

• Berklee College of Music: $85,000  

• Boston College: $785,000  

• Boston Graduate School of Psychoanalysis Inc: $50,000  

• Boston University: $935,000  

• Bridgewater State University: $580,000  

• Cambridge College: $460,000  

• College of Our Lady of the Elms: $165,000  

• Emmanuel College: $110,000  

• Fitchburg State University: $70,000  

• Framingham State University: $70,000  

• Gordan College: $50,000  

• Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary: $105,000  

• Harvard University: $50,000  

• Lesley University: $675,000  

• Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts: $50,000  

• MCPHS University: $150,000  

• Merrimack College: $80,000  

• MGH Institute of Health Professions: $55,000  

• Northeastern University: $180,000  

• Regis College: $285,000  

• Salem State University: $930,000  

• Simmons University: $1,540,000  

• Smith College: $260,000  

• Springfield College: $1,045,000  

• Suffolk University: $65,000  

• Tufts University: $230,000  

• University of Massachusetts – Amherst: $50,000  

• University of Massachusetts – Boston: $370,000  

• University of Massachusetts – Dartmouth: $140,000  

• Western New England University: $180,000  

• Westfield State University: $400,000  

• WILLIAM JAMES College: $395,000  

• Worcester State University: $485,000 

麻州撥款1600萬元支持近千戶可負擔住宅去碳化

Healey-Driscoll Administration Awards $16 Million to Decarbonize Affordable Housing 

Third Round of Climate Ready Housing Funding Awards Will Support Deep Energy Retrofits and Cost Savings in nearly 1,000 Affordable Housing Homes 

BOSTON – The Healey-Driscoll Administration today announced the third round of funding awards under the Climate Ready Housing program. The program is led by the Executive Office of Housing and Livable Communities, in collaboration with Massachusetts Housing Partnership, MassHousing, and Local Initiatives Support Corporation Massachusetts (LISC MA).  

These funds will enable affordable housing properties across eight Massachusetts communities to significantly reduce their energy use  through energy retrofits and electrification,which will lower costs for evidence. The grant program will advance physical upgrades to a crucial segment of the state’s housing stock, improving indoor air quality and comfort for residents.  

“This third round of funding goes even further toward lowering emissions from our existing buildings, which reduces costs for Massachusetts residents while being good for the environment and our health,” said Governor Maura Healey. “Massachusetts continues to lead on decarbonizing affordable housing properties as we make progress on our mission to tackle high housing and energy costs head-on.” 

“These green initiatives create a healthier standard of living for families in our housing developments while at the same time providing opportunities for local workers,” said Lieutenant Governor Kim Driscoll. “We are paving the way for a brighter, more sustainable future through these deep energy retrofits.”  

“This year’s Climate Ready Housing funding will enable energy retrofit improvements of nearly 1,000 homes across the state,” said Housing and Livable Communities Secretary Ed Augustus. “This funding will lower costs for low- and moderate-income residents, improve indoor air quality for our residents and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. This investment will put us on the path to achieving the commonwealth’s net zero emissions goal while creating more resilient homes.” 

This program was created and authorized under the state’s 2021 Economic Development Bond Bill and seeded at $1.6 million annually. After two successful pilot rounds, the Healey-Driscoll Administration increased annual program funding tenfold, making $16 million available for this third round. The program enables deep energy retrofits and decarbonization projects in the affordable housing sector that benefit low- and moderate-income residents. 

Projects submitted for this funding opportunity pursued one of the following two decarbonization approaches: 

• Deep Energy Retrofits (DER): This approach requires extensive building envelope improvements, electrification of building systems, and maximization of on-site renewable energy production. Projects achieve at least 50 percent in energy savings and significant carbon emissions reductions. 

• Zero Carbon Emissions Over Time (ZOT): This approach focuses on projects with thoughtful strategies for reducing emissions over time in alignment with planned upgrades. Projects propose strategic, short-term interventions that contribute to a long-term, comprehensive plan to achieve zero carbon emissions by 2050. 

More than 40 projects submitted a pre-application for the 2024 round, of which 13 were selected for new funding awards totaling approximately $16 million. Recommended project awards will enable energy retrofit improvements in 997 units of affordable housing across the state. 

MHP and MassHousing provide funding administration and application support on behalf of EOHLC. Additional application and programmatic support are provided by LISC MA. 

“We’re excited to continue our partnership with Healey-Driscoll Administration, alongside MassHousing and LISC, to increase funds and expand impact for affordable properties in the Commonwealth,” said MHP Executive Director Clark Ziegler. "MHP is committed to preserving housing that is healthy, comfortable, and contributes to the achievement of the Commonwealth's climate goals. We are grateful to live in a state and work with partners committed to the ongoing decarbonization of affordable homes. This year's investment ensures that 1,000 homes will be healthy and comfortable for our residents in the short- and long-term, with continued investment anticipated through the Affordable Homes Act.” 

“Climate Ready Housing funding complements our state’s leading climate finance system, helping to accelerate the adoption of clean energy technologies in affordable homes across Massachusetts,” said MassHousing CEO Chrystal Kornegay. “This funding commitment will help nearly 1,000 affordable homes operate cleanly and efficiently, supporting our state’s clean energy goals, while creating healthier and more comfortable homes for lower-income residents.” 

“Decarbonization funding is critical to ensuring we are able to provide safe, healthy, and affordable homes long-term for Massachusetts residents,” said LISC MA Deputy Director Emily Jones. “LISC is committed to helping affordable housing organizations access these resources and plan for a clean energy future.”  

The Climate Ready Housing (CRH) awardees for 2024 include: 

154-156 Boylston St & Sara Wallace House - Brookline Community Development Corporation 

Brookline Community Development Corporation will receive CRH funding for the deep energy retrofits it plans at a 6-unit triple decker property and a 16-unit historic building, both of which are located in Brookline. These projects propose significant building envelope upgrades, electrification of building systems, ventilation system upgrades, as well as water conservation measures. These improvements are expected to result in a 67 percent and 55 percent site energy use reduction at the properties, respectively. 

258 Main Street – Pine Street Inn 

Pine Street Inn will receive CRH funding for the Zero Over Time retrofit approach it plans at a 14-unit property located in Charlestown. The project proposes electrification of space heating and domestic hot water systems, which will help to eliminate fossil fuel energy uses at the site. 

259 Lowell – Visiting Nurse Communities & WinnCompanies 

Visiting Nurse Communities and WinnCompanies will receive CRH funding for the deep energy retrofit of 78 units located in Somerville. The project proposes full electrification of building systems, ventilation upgrades, and roof-mounted solar photovoltaics. These improvements are expected to result in a 48 percent site energy use reduction for the property. 

Blue Meadows/Nashmont – New Bedford Housing Authority 

New Bedford Housing Authority will receive CRH funding to support envelope upgrades in 22 units across four buildings in New Bedford. This project has elected a Zero Over Time (ZOT) approach, so proposed envelope upgrades enabled by CRH funds will pave the way for later cooking, laundry, and mechanical system electrification. 

Burbank Gardens – Fenway Community Development Corporation 

Fenway Community Development Corporation will receive CRH funding for the green retrofit project it plans at a 52-unit property located in Boston. The project proposes domestic hot water electrification, ventilation upgrades, and electrical service improvements. This project has elected a Zero Over Time (ZOT) approach, so upgrades enabled by CRH funds will pave the way for later electrification of space heating and cooling systems. 

Constitution Inn – Planning Office for Urban Affairs 

Planning Office for Urban Affairs will receive CRH funding for the green retrofit project it plans at a 100-unit property located in Charlestown. The project proposes building envelope upgrades and electrification of space heating, space cooling, and cooking appliances. This project has elected a Zero Over Time (ZOT) approach, so upgrades enabled by CRH funds will pave the way for later domestic hot water electrification. 

New North Canal Apartments – Coalition for a Better Acre 

Coalition for a Better Acre will receive CRH funding for the green retrofit project it plans at a 267-unit campus property located in Lowell. The project proposes building envelope improvements, balanced ventilation upgrades, and electrical service upgrades. This project is electing a Zero Over Time (ZOT) approach, so upgrades enabled by CRH funds will pave the way for later mechanical system and appliance electrification. 

Orchard Gardens – Madison Park Development Corporation 

Madison Park Development Corporation will receive CRH funding for the deep energy retrofit it plans at 282 units on a campus property located in Roxbury. The project proposes insulation upgrades across all buildings, all-electric space heating and cooling, domestic hot water electrification where feasible, and ventilation upgrades. These improvements are expected to result in a 57 percent site energy use reduction across the property.  

Phillips Brooks School – Quincy Geneva New Vision Community & WinnCompanies 

Quincy Geneva New Vision Community Development Corporation and WinnCompanies will receive CRH funding for the deep energy retrofit it plans for 27 units of affordable housing located in Dorchester. The project proposes significant envelope improvements, electrification of mechanical systems, and electrical service upgrades. These improvements are expected to result in a 57 percent site energy use reduction for the property. 

Roosevelt Towers Mid-Rise – Cambridge Housing Authority 

Cambridge Housing Authority will receive CRH funding for the deep energy retrofit it plans at a 77-unit mid-rise property located in Cambridge. The project proposes comprehensive envelope upgrades, full electrification, new mechanical ventilation, as well as roof-mounted solar photovoltaics. These improvements are expected to result in a 90 percent site energy use reduction for the property. The project is a recent awardee of HUD’s Green and Resilient Retrofit Program (GRRP) and aims to achieve Passive House (PHIUS Core Revive) certification.  

The Putnam – The Community Builders 

The Community Builders will receive CRH funding for the deep energy retrofit planned in 38 units of historic, adaptive reuse housing located in Greenfield. The project proposes an envelope upgrade to Passive House standards, all-electric mechanical systems, a solar panel-ready roof, indoor bicycle parking, and electric vehicle charging space. 

WCG Homes – Worcester Common Ground 

Worcester Common Ground will receive CRH funding for the deep energy retrofit it plans at an 18-unit scattered site property located in Worcester. The project proposes full electrification, ventilation upgrades, and roof-mounted solar photovoltaics. These improvements are expected to result in a 69 percent site energy use reduction for the property. 

The decarbonization of Massachusetts’ existing buildings is a key component of the state’s strategy to achieve net zero emissions by 2050. The Climate Ready Housing program will catalyze significant investments in the built environment sector, and leverage other federal, state, and local funding resources to help affordable housing developments lower emissions and energy use.  

The next round of Climate Ready Housing is expected to open in March 2025. For more information about the program, application materials, and deadlines, go to www.lisc.org/climatereadyhousing. 

Awardee Statements: 

Giovanny Valencia, Executive Director, Brookline Community Development Corporation: 

"We at the Brookline Community Development Corporation (BCDC) are incredibly grateful for the two funding awards from the Climate Ready Housing Program. These funds will be instrumental in the rehabilitation and decarbonization of our properties at 1017 Beacon St. and 154-156 Boylston St. By preserving 22 affordable housing units in Brookline, we're ensuring a sustainable future for our residents." 

 

Lyndia Downie, President and Executive Director, Pine Street Inn: 

“Pine Street Inn appreciates the opportunity to provide green energy in our buildings. The 258 Main Street Electrification Project has an anticipated energy use reduction of more than 70% with the addition of this new system, including installation of heat pumps and other conservation efforts. We are always looking at ways to be environmentally thoughtful in our housing and shelter buildings, and we thank the Climate Ready Housing Program for supporting this project.” 

 

Linda Cornell, CEO, Visiting Nurse Communities: 

"The VNA Senior Living Community in Somerville provides a home for over 95 low-income seniors who would otherwise be homeless, in a nursing home or institution. We are so grateful that Somerville Senior Phase One LLC, located at 259 Lowell in Somerville, has been selected for this critical Climate Ready Housing funding. This decarbonization funding will facilitate the transformation of this aging property into an all-electric, high performance senior housing community while demonstrating the Commonwealth’s leadership in the creation and preservation of high quality, healthy, and affordable housing." 

 

Cynthia Spence, Director of Modernization, Planning & Development, New Bedford Housing Authority: 

“The New Bedford Housing Authority remains committed to fulfilling our mission to provide safe, quality housing for our tenants. We are grateful for this award which supports our mission and reflects our commitment to sustainable and climate resilient housing.” 

 

Suneeth John , Deputy Director & Head of Real Estate, Fenway Community Development Corporation: 

"We are grateful to have received the Climate Ready Housing Award, which will allow us to implement crucial energy saving measures and set us on a path to achieve net-zero in the coming years at Burbank Gardens, a 52-unit 100% income restricted property the Fenway. Fenway CDC is committed to innovative climate preparedness work; this grant is an important step in that direction." 

 

Shaina Korman-Houston, Director of Real Estate, Planning Office for Urban Affairs: 

“Our proposed redevelopment of the Constitution Inn will provide 100 units of much needed affordable housing, including workforce housing that will meet the needs of the community and permanent supportive housing that will meet the needs of women and veterans experiencing homelessness. We are grateful for the approvals we received from the Boston Planning and Development Agency. We remain steadfast in our efforts to increase affordable housing opportunities for all individuals and families who need it - including the development of permanent supportive housing - permanent, affordable housing with full-time, fully-staffed wraparound services - which will help make our communities stronger.” 

 

Brendan Conley, Real Estate Project Manager, Coalition for a Better Acre: 

“The Coalition for a Better Acre is honored to be awarded Climate Ready Housing program funds for our North Canal project. The funding brings us one step closer to reducing energy usage and preserving much needed affordable housing in the city of Lowell.” 

 

Oren Richkin, Real Estate Senior Project Manager, Madison Park Development Corporation: 

“Madison Park Development Corporation, and our co-sponsor Trinity Financial, are thrilled that the Orchard Gardens project will receive an award from the Climate Ready Housing fund. Orchard Gardens is a large, 331-unit housing development, spanning 23 acres, in the heart of Roxbury. The CRH award will help to support an ambitious $25 million plus scope of sustainability improvements to help reduce CO2 production across the property by 50% and improve the quality of life for all our residents and Roxbury community members.” 

 

Christina McPike, Vice President of Energy & Sustainability, WinnCompanies: 

“CRH funding is instrumental to WinnCompanies’ decarbonization efforts at Phillips Brooks School. This critical source supports a robust building envelope upgrade and comprehensive HVAC scope that will transform the property’s 27 apartments into more sustainable, comfortable, and environmentally responsible homes for our residents.” 

 

Margaret Moran, Deputy Executive Director of Development, Cambridge Housing Authority: 

“The CHA is very grateful to be a recipient of the Climate Housing Ready Program. This funding is an important component of the financing needed to make Roosevelt Towers Mid-Rise a sustainable building with high-quality homes for our residents.” 

 

Rachana Crowley, Vice President of Real Estate Development, The Community Builders: 

“The Community Builders is grateful for the support from LISC for this transformative project to bring passive house, affordable and workforce housing to Greenfield’s Main Street” 

 

Tim Gilbert, Project Manager, Worcester Common Ground: 

“Worcester Common Ground, Inc. thanks MassHousing, MHP, and LISC for supporting our deep energy retrofit projects through the Climate Ready Housing Program. This funding, along with contributions from the Department of Energy Resources, the Executive Office of Housing and Livable Communities, the City of Worcester, and MassCEC, will help decarbonize and electrify eighteen units among four buildings that are typical of the housing stock of Massachusetts, which will, in turn, serve as a model for improving the Commonwealth’s aging housing stock to be healthier, more comfortable, and sustainable.”  

Korro 生物整合實驗室及辦公空間 遷址劍橋市第一街60號設總部

 (Boston Orange 編譯) 聘有約100名員工，研發罕見病藥物的Korro生物公司，最近將展開臨床實驗，並把分散3 地的公司場地整合為一，遷至劍橋市坎德廣場 (Kendall Square) 。

            Korro生物公司現在以劍橋市第一街60號為總部，實驗室及辦公室共佔地5萬平方英尺。其中3萬平方呎將為實驗室空間，由TRIA建築師事務所承包施工、室內設計，品牌，實驗室計畫及項目，視覺化等工作。

            該公司營運長Todd Chappell表示，公司總部以前設在坎德廣場1號的600到700號大樓，以及1400號大樓，還有屋本市( Woburn)的康明斯(Cummings) 42及42號租用空間。整合後，公司所有人員已遷至劍橋市第一街60號，不再佔據前述3地。

            Korro生物研發的市RNA檢及藥物，預計2025年第一季，將為第一個病患施打治療基因狀況損害肺肝的α-1 抗胰蛋白酶缺乏症 (alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency) 治劑。Korro公司還和Novo Nordisk公司有5億3500萬元的合作計畫，要研發2種可能治療心臟代謝病的藥物。

藍捷航空2025五月將開通波士頓直飛馬德里、愛丁堡航線

            (Boston Orange綜合編譯) 波士頓到西班牙的直航班機，明年5月22日將新增一家。藍捷 (Blue Jet) 航空公司宣佈，屆時將開通波士頓直飛馬德里、愛丁堡航線。

這是藍捷航空第一次開通從波士頓直飛西班牙的航線，其中飛往馬德里的航班將每天營運，飛往愛丁堡的航班則是僅在5月到10月間服務。這是波士頓到愛丁堡的首個直飛航線。

在開通這航線之後，藍捷將有從波士頓直飛英國倫敦的希斯洛 (Heathrow)、蓋威克 (Gatwick)機場，法國巴黎 (Charles de Gaulle，季節性)，荷蘭阿姆斯特丹，德國都柏林的共7條直飛航線到歐洲。

今年9月，藍捷還宣佈了將於2025年後，在波士頓羅根機場設立貴賓室。

藍捷航空是一家有280架飛機，飛往美洲、歐洲100多個地點，雇有2萬3000多名員工，營業額超過90億元，市值22.9億元的中型航空公司。

麻州撥款300萬元支援沿海社區10項整修計畫

Healey-Driscoll Administration Announces More Than $3 Million to Support Massachusetts Coastal Communities Seaport Economic Council Awards 10 Grants to Support Wharf Reconstruction, Pier Replacements, and Dredging Projects

BOSTON – Today, the Healey-Driscoll administration announced $3,285,664 in blue economy grants for 10 projects that will support the economic vitality, tourism, and ecosystem health of Massachusetts’ waterfronts and harbors while helping the state reach its ambitious climate resiliency goals. Lieutenant Governor Kim Driscoll announced the grants during a meeting of the Seaport Economic Council at the State House today following the ceremonial signing of the Mass Leads Act, an economic development bill that includes a $100 million reauthorization of the Seaport Economic Council.  “Coastal communities play a critical role in our economy,” said Governor Maura Healey. “The Seaport Economic Council grants help cities and towns make infrastructure improvements to prepare for extreme weather caused by climate change while also investing in important blue economy businesses, commercial fishing operations, and tourist and recreational enterprises.”  “The Seaport Economic Council provides critical funding to improve our waterfronts, mitigate the impacts of climate change, and support economic growth along our coasts. We are proud to work with Massachusetts’ 78 coastal communities to move key blue economy projects forward,” said Lieutenant Governor Kim Driscoll, Chair of the Seaport Economic Council.  “These investments in our coastal communities will help them maintain and improve their harbors for commercial fishing, recreational, and other blue economy uses.”  “These investments will support a range of critical initiatives, from coastal resilience and dredging projects to pier infrastructure enhancements that protect our shorelines,” said Secretary of Economic Development Yvonne Hao. “By funding these efforts, we’re ensuring a safer and more enduring future for our coasts from the North Shore to the Cape and Islands.”  “Maritime communities are important centers of economic activity, drawing many visitors each year and supporting the coastal industries that have been integral to our state's economy,” said Undersecretary of Economic Foundations Ashley Stolba, Vice Chair of the Seaport Economic Council. “We are proud to fund these projects and look forward to their lasting impact on the future generations of these towns.”  Seaport Economic Council Grants:     Town of Danvers, Crane River Marina Improvement Project - $350,464  The Town will use grant funds to construct a new access pier with new security gate and float modifications to improve public access, functionality, safety, and security at the Town’s public marina.  Town of Dennis and Yarmouth, Bass River Dredge Permitting - $200,000  The funding will support the permitting and design for the Bass River Dredging Project, which aims to manage the shared waterway, improve aquatics and shoreline ecosystems, and promote a healthy and vibrant waterway for residents and visitors of both communities.  Town of Ipswich, Town Wharf Commercial Pier - $69,600  The Town will use grant funds to rebuild a sea wall and create a commercial pier for commercial lobster, fishing, and clam vessels to dock and unload their catch.  Town of Marion, Marion Harbor Management Plan - $150,000  The Town will use grant funds to hire a consulting team to assist in crafting a comprehensive harbor plan for the Town. The consultant will provide expertise in waterfront development, regulatory compliance, and stakeholder coordination to ensure a balanced and sustainable vision for our harbor's future.  Town of Marshfield and Scituate, Permitting & Engineering/Design of North/South River Dredging - $261,600   The funding will support the permitting and design for the Marshfield and Scituate North/South River Dredging project, which will provide better marina access for public boat ramps, boatyards, and local bait shops.  Town of Mashpee, Great River/Little River Dredging - $60,000   The funding will support the permitting and design for the Great River and Little River Dredging project, which will benefit the recreational boaters that utilize these rivers and estuaries, as well as benefit the recreational and commercial shell fishing areas.  Town of Orleans, Rock Harbor Commercial Wharf Reconstruction & Improvement Project - $1,000,000  The Town will use grant funds to improve the Rock Harbor off-loading pier and address the existing limitations that the Rock Harbor Commercial Wharf facility imposes on daily operations and the needs of the commercial fleet.  Town of Sandwich, Sandwich Marina Harborwalk Design and Permitting - $100,000   The Town will use grant funds to design and permit a resilient pedestrian connection between an existing parking lot and floating dock system to enhance commercial and tourism use of the Town of Sandwich's municipal marina.  Town of Tisbury, Owen Park Pier Replacement - $1,000,000  The funding will support demolition for replacement and construction of Vineyard Haven Harbor’s public pier.  Town of Westport, Westport Town Dock Feasibility Study for Sea Level Rise and Storm Design - $94,000   The Town will use grant funds to complete a feasibility study that will identify any structural issues with the aging town dock and engineer plans to raise the town dock up to a proper height for expected sea level rise.

波士頓選中麵粉烘培店管理波士頓廣場特許館

MAYOR WU ANNOUNCES FLOUR BAKERY SELECTED TO MANAGE THE BOSTON COMMON CONCESSION PAVILION

BOSTON - Wednesday, December 11, 2024 - Mayor Michelle Wu and the Boston Parks and Recreation Department announced today that Boston-based Flour Bakery has been selected as the vendor to manage the Boston Common Concession Pavilion. This decision follows a Request for Proposals (RFP) process designed to identify a vendor who aligns with the City’s goals for the site, providing high-quality food and beverage service in one of Boston’s most beloved public spaces. The previous vendor on the Common has since closed, with Flour expected to begin renovations this winter with a tentative opening date for spring 2025. This vendor selection builds off Mayor Wu’s commitment to creating a welcoming and thriving Downtown for residents, workers, and visitors alike.

“Flour Bakery will be a great fit for this treasured space in our country’s oldest public park, the Boston Common,” said Mayor Michelle Wu. “As we continue investing in a vibrant Downtown, we’re thrilled to see local businesses creating new opportunities at the forefront. I look forward to enjoying Flour on the Common.”

“We’re thrilled to welcome Flour Bakery to Boston Common,” said Interim Parks Commissioner Liza Meyer. “Flour Bakery’s commitment to quality, community, and creativity makes them the perfect addition to this historic space. Both everyday park-goers and out-of-town visitors will enjoy being able to stop by Flour for food or a beverage, which in turn will help activate the Common for the benefit of all park users.” 

Flour Bakery, a minority- and women-owned business, launched in 2000 in the South End and has become a local favorite for its delicious pastries, sandwiches, and signature hospitality. Led by James Beard Award-winning pastry chef and co-owner Joanne Chang, this celebrated bakery will open its 10th location at the Boston Common Concession Pavilion, bringing its renowned offerings to the heart of Boston’s most iconic park.

"We've proudly been part of the Boston community for almost 25 years and are eager to bring Flour Bakery to this historic area,” said Joanne Chang. “We look forward to making Boston Common a sweeter place this spring with our beloved Flour pastries, salads, and sandwiches, as well as new treats exclusive to this location."

“We are very excited to welcome Flour Bakery to the heart of Downtown Boston and the iconic Boston Common,” said Rishi Shukla, Co-Founder and Leadership Team member of the Downtown Boston Neighborhood Association. “Joanne and her talented team have built a beloved local business that is sure to delight, making our nation’s oldest public park an even more vibrant and flavorful destination for all Bostonians and visitors to enjoy.”

The search for a new vendor was first announced in October. More details on Flour Bakery’s opening at the Pavilion, including an official launch date, will be shared in the coming months. This new vendor on the Common builds off Mayor Wu’s work to make Downtown a welcoming and safe place to build community. Last year, the City announced the Emerson College UnCommon Stage and the beer garden on the Common to bring vibrancy to a previously underutilized part of the park in the summer months. 

For updates, stay tuned by following @bostonparksdept on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram, or sign up for our email list at bit.ly/Get-Parks-Emails.