吳弭市長開圓桌會盼延續今夏大活動帶來的經濟效益

（Boston Orange編譯）波士頓市長吳弭（Michelle Wu）8月12日辦圓桌會議，檢討世足賽等夏季大型活動成效，並公佈在6月賽事期間民眾消費金額達2.18億美元，貢獻出150萬美元稅收，市府希望收集各界意見，鼓勵社區全年舉辦類似活動，延續經濟效益。     根據波士頓市府研究部門分析，6月12日至30日世足賽期間，球迷節、社區直播派對及南車站球場列車等活動，參與人次共計約21萬8,400，帶動出的全市實體消費比2025年同期成長5%。餐飲消費全市增加2%，市中心精華區達15%；酒吧消費全市成長27%，市中心精華區飆升86%，其中寺廟廣場（Temple Place）和公園街（Park Street）區域更高出85.7%。     在世界足球盃舉行期間，為因應人潮，全市211家商家延長營業時間，140家營業至凌晨3時，橫跨25個郵遞區號。聯合街（Union Street）與馬歇爾街（Marshall Street）有89%餐飲店家參與「社交街區」（social district）試辦計畫，寺廟廣場達100%，兩區來客數分別較2025年同期增加60%與40%。此外，31個麻州社區舉辦逾175場活動，市府在各地公園舉辦18場直播派對，6月19日波士頓公園（Boston Common）單日即吸引約6,800名球迷。     波士頓會展與觀光局（Meet Boston）總裁瑪莎．謝里丹（Martha Sheridan）表示，世足賽投資成果可作為未來舉辦大型活動的參考。波士頓市中心聯盟（Downtown Boston Alliance）總裁麥可．尼可斯（Michael J. Nichols）指出，7月市區人潮年增逾10%，週末來訪人數已超越疫情前水準。市議員盧伊瓊（Ruthzee Louijeune）強調將持續關注小型及少數族裔商家，市議員恩里克．佩彭（Enrique Pepen）則肯定這是波士頓近年最熱鬧的夏季。     波士頓市府透露，已透過民間資金與補助款投入40多萬美元支持社區組織與商家，未來將簡化行政程序，鼓勵社區全年自主舉辦活動，將夏季盛事的動能延續下去。 MAYOR MICHELLE WU HOSTS SUMMER IMPACT ROUNDTABLE, HIGHLIGHTING BOSTON’S SUCCESS AND IMPACTS FOLLOWING HISTORIC SUMMER SEASON    City roundtable convened civic leaders, business owners and residents to celebrate success of this summer’s major events and advance efforts to build on momentum for Boston communities across neighborhoods and sectors BOSTON - Friday, August 14, 2026 - Following Boston’s historic summer of major events, Wednesday, August 12, Mayor Michelle Wu hosted a roundtable with civic leaders, business owners, residents and local elected officials to discuss and reflect on the positive impacts that hosting the 2026 FIFA World Cup, Sail Boston 250, and Boston 250 events had on Boston's businesses and communities. At the roundtable, Mayor Wu emphasized the City will continue to gather feedback from residents, partners, and businesses and work to build on the momentum generated across neighborhoods from this summer’s major events.   “When we create space for fun, community will come, and so will the economic impact. This historic summer showcased Boston to the world, and we are grateful to our City teams, public safety officials, community leaders, and local businesses for all their hard work. These major events created economic opportunity in every neighborhood, and we’re determined to carry that momentum forward,” said Mayor Michelle Wu.  Following this summer, the City will continue to work together with partners and businesses to bolster supports and make it easier for communities to create exciting activations and opportunities year-round.  “Our investment in the World Cup paid great dividends, becoming a model for how we pursue future events,” said Martha Sheridan, President & CEO of Meet Boston. “The goal, from the outset, was to ensure that the economic impact of the tournament rippled across our neighborhoods and beyond, allowing for small businesses and community watch parties to flourish, and enhancing the overall visitor experience.” “This summer has been some of the most fun Boston has experienced in a while! We are grateful to have had the whole city be showcased to the world and look forward to more opportunities to show our beautiful neighborhoods,” said City Councilor Enrique Pepen.  “This summer showed us that Boston can handle big events, Boston can handle late nights, and Boston can do fun. We saw tremendous energy across the city, and we saw what is possible when the City, our neighborhoods, and the business community work together,” said City Councilor Ruthzee Louijeune. “As Chair of the Committee on Arts, Culture, Entertainment, Tourism and Special Events, I’ve been focused on making sure that the benefits of these moments actually reach the people and businesses that make Boston such a vibrant city. Our committee and my office held hearings, sent letters, and worked closely with the Administration and community and business partners around access to opportunities and resources, particularly for our small and Black & Brown owned businesses. This summer reinforced just how important those partnerships are, and how much more we can accomplish when we start planning early and bring people to the table. We’re going to continue that work on the Council.”

During the Summer Impact Roundtable, the City released preliminary data highlighting community participation, economic impact and activity in the Downtown area and the city’s neighborhoods. Additionally, the City of Boston Research Division’s economic impact analysis currently focuses primarily on the June 2026 World Cup period, with additional July analysis to be incorporated as data becomes available.  Boston World Cup Participation & Economic Impact Approximately 218,400 World Cup-related event visit days were identified in Boston in the June analysis, including FanFest, community watch parties, and South Station stadium-train riders. These participants generated an estimated $83 million in spending during the second half of June. An estimated $1.5 million in tax revenue was generated for the City of Boston. Consumer Spending & Downtown Activity Overall in-person consumer spending in Boston was approximately 5% higher during June 12–30, 2026 than comparable days in 2025. Restaurant spending increased approximately 2% citywide and 15% in Greater Downtown. Restaurant spending peaked on June 21 at approximately 20% above 2025 citywide and 46% higher in Greater Downtown. Bar spending increased approximately 27% citywide and 86% in Greater Downtown. Citywide bar spending peaked at approximately 66% above 2025 levels on June 20. Greater Downtown bar spending peaked at approximately 179% above 2025 levels on June 19. Social Districts & Extended Business Activity 140 businesses extended their hours until 3am.  In total, 211 businesses extended operations by one hour.  These 211 businesses are located in 25 zip codes. On Union and Marshall Streets, 89 percent of bars and restaurants (eight) participated in the social district. On Temple Place, 100 percent of bars and restaurants participated in the social district.   Visits to Union and Marshall Streets were approximately 60% higher than the comparable period in 2025. Visits to Temple Place were approximately 40% higher than 2025. Bar spending in the City Hall area increased approximately 166.3% over the same period. Bar spending in the Temple Place/Park Street area increased approximately 85.7%. Community Activity 31 communities across Massachusetts hosted more than 175 events. 7 fan walks / gatherings were held in Boston The City of Boston hosted 18 watch parties drawing tens of thousands to different parks, and open spaces across the City. On June 19th, the three community watch parties in Boston Common drew approximately 6,800 fans. The City also mobilized over $400,000 in private sector funding and grants to be distributed to community organizations and small businesses across our neighborhoods as part of the 250th celebrations and activating the neighborhoods to celebrate this historic summer.  "This summer proved what’s possible when visionary leadership and local partnership line up to welcome the world to Boston," said Michael J. Nichols, President of the Downtown Boston Alliance. "Thanks to the leadership of Mayor Wu and our state partners, major global moments—from the World Cup and Sail Boston to America’s 250th—were paired with bold policy updates like Boston’s first social districts. The results speak for themselves: July domestic foot traffic rose over 10% year-over-year, weekend visitation topped pre-pandemic levels, and surveyed downtown restaurants saw revenue jump nearly 38% - and even more in the Temple Place Social District. Small businesses thrived, our public realm came alive, and we’ve established a proven blueprint for Downtown’s continued economic success." “Boston’s diversity is one of its greatest strengths”, said Elizabeth Espinal, Vice Counsel of the Dominican Republic. “Major events represent an opportunity to generate economic development in our neighborhoods and support small businesses. From the Dominican Consulate, we value this partnership and remain committed to strengthening our collaboration with the City to expand that impact.” “These major events showed us the power of bringing people together and creating opportunities for small businesses throughout Boston,” said Luis Espinozia, owner of Roundhead Brewery. “We saw firsthand how neighborhood programming can bring people into our communities and create opportunities for local businesses, musicians, artists, and food vendors. I hope we can continue that momentum beyond the World Cup by creating more opportunities for neighborhood-scale events throughout the year.”

Healey-Driscoll Administration Announces Continued Investment in Early Literacy Tutoring for 338 Schools

Healey-Driscoll Administration Announces Continued Investment in Early Literacy Tutoring for 338 Schools

Approximately 8,500 tutoring seats will support students in 102 school districts, charter schools, and collaboratives during the 2026–27 school year while launching a new federal research pilot

 
EVERETT – The Healey-Driscoll Administration today announced that 338 schools across 102 school districts, charter schools and collaboratives will receive no-cost, high-impact early literacy tutoring during the 2026-27 school year. The initiative will provide at least 8,485 tutoring seats for students in kindergarten through third grade, with priority given to first-grade students who demonstrate the greatest need in foundational reading skills.

 

The Fiscal Year 2027 state budget includes $20 million to continue the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education’s (DESE) Early Literacy Tutoring Initiative. The funding builds on the administration’s investments to strengthen early literacy instruction and help more students become strong readers.

“Every child in Massachusetts deserves the chance to become a strong reader and succeed in school,” said Governor Maura Healey. “That’s why we’re investing in early literacy and making sure students who need extra help can get it. This tutoring will give thousands of students more support to strengthen their reading skills and succeed in the classroom.”

“Strong reading skills set students up for success throughout their education,” said Lieutenant Governor Kim Driscoll. “We’re giving schools and educators more tools to support students early, meet their individual needs and help them build the skills and confidence they need to succeed.”

This is the third round of early literacy tutoring funding under the Healey-Driscoll Administration. The first round supported 272 schools, followed by an additional 84 schools in the second round. Some schools and districts have participated in more than one round.

The initiative is part of the Administration's broader strategy to improve early literacy, including investments in high-quality instructional materials, professional development for educators, early literacy screening, and targeted support for students. The announcement also builds on recently enacted literacy legislation to strengthen reading instruction and Help schools identify students who need additional support earlier.

“High-impact tutoring is one of the most effective strategies we have for accelerating student learning,” said Education Secretary Steve Zrike. “By continuing to expand access to evidence-based tutoring while strengthening districts' overall literacy systems, Massachusetts is helping more students become successful readers.”

Tutoring will be provided at no cost to participating districts through state funding, remaining Fiscal Year 2026 Fair Share funding and a federal Education Innovation and Research grant from the U.S. Department of Education. DESE-approved tutoring providers will use evidence-based instruction, student data and flexible service models to meet the needs of participating students and schools.

This year, DESE will also launch the Building Ongoing Outcomes in Student Tutoring (BOOST) pilot with support from the federal grant. A subset of participating districts will take part in the pilot, which will help DESE and research partners study different tutoring approaches and how they can both improve immediate literacy gains and long-term student outcomes.

“Districts across Massachusetts continue to demonstrate a strong commitment to evidence-based literacy instruction,” Elementary and Secondary Education Commissioner Pedro Martinez said. “This initiative allows us to partner with schools to provide targeted support for students while continuing to strengthen literacy outcomes across the Commonwealth." 

 

More information about the Massachusetts Early Literacy Tutoring Initiative is available online. 

The 338 schools recommended to receive no-cost early literacy tutoring during the 2026–27 school year are located in the following districts and collaboratives:

 

• Abby Kelley Foster Charter Public School (in Worcester)
• Abington Public Schools
• Acushnet Public Schools
• Agawam Public Schools
• Alma del Mar Charter School (in New Bedford)
• Barnstable Public Schools
• Belchertown Public Schools
• Berkley Public Schools
• Beverly Public Schools
• Bi-County Collaborative
• Blackstone-Millville Regional School District
• Boston Public Schools
• Bridge Boston Charter School
• Bridgewater-Raynham Regional School District
• Chelsea Public Schools
• Chicopee Public Schools
• Clinton Public Schools
• Codman Academy Charter School (in Boston)
• Collegiate Charter School of Lowell
• CREST Collaborative
• Danvers Public Schools
• Dighton-Rehoboth Regional School District
• Dracut Public Schools
• Dudley-Charlton Regional School District
• Easthampton Public Schools
• Edgartown Public Schools
• Everett Public Schools
• Fall River Public Schools
• Fitchburg Public Schools
• Foxborough Regional Charter School
• Franklin Public Schools
• Freetown-Lakeville Regional School District
• Gardner Public Schools
• Gateway Regional School District
• Greater Commonwealth Virtual School
• Greenfield Public Schools
• Hanover Public Schools
• Haverhill Public Schools
• Holbrook Public Schools
• Holyoke Community Charter School
• Holyoke Public Schools
• Hoosac Valley Regional School District
• Lawrence Public Schools
• Learning First Charter Public School (in Worcester)
• Lee Public Schools
• Leicester Public Schools
• Leominster Public Schools
• Lowell Community Charter School
• Lowell Public Schools
• Ludlow Public Schools
• Lunenburg Public Schools
• Malden Public Schools
• Manchester Essex Regional School District
• Martin Luther King, Jr. Charter School of Excellence (in Springfield)
• Match Charter Public School (in Boston)
• Methuen Public Schools
• Milford Public Schools
• Monomoy Regional School District
• Neighborhood House Charter School (in Boston)
• New Bedford Public Schools
• North Andover Public Schools
• North Middlesex Regional School District
• Northampton Public Schools
• Northbridge Public Schools
• Norton Public Schools
• Oak Bluffs Public Schools
• Old Sturbridge Academy Charter Public School
• Peabody Public Schools
• Petersham Public Schools
• Pittsfield Public Schools
• Plainville Public Schools
• Prospect Hill Academy Charter School (in Cambridge)
• Quabbin Regional School District
• Quaboag Regional School District
• Randolph Public Schools
• Reading Public Schools
• Revere Public Schools
• Rockland Public Schools
• Salem Public Schools
• Saugus Public Schools
• Somerville Public Schools
• South Hadley Public Schools
• Southbridge Public Schools
• Southern Berkshire Regional School District
• Southwick-Tolland-Granville Regional School District
• Springfield Prep Charter School
• Springfield Public Schools
• Stoughton Public Schools
• Taunton Public Schools
• Triton Regional School District
• Tyngsborough Public Schools
• Wakefield Public Schools
• Wareham Public Schools
• Watertown Public Schools
• Webster Public Schools
• Westfield Public Schools
• Weymouth Public Schools
• Winchester Public Schools
• Woburn Public Schools
• Worcester Cultural Academy Charter School
• Worcester Public Schools
• Wrentham Public Schools

MassVentures Announces $4.5 Million in Grant Funding to Help 26 Massachusetts Startups Grow and Create Jobs

MassVentures Announces $4.5 Million in Grant Funding to Help 26 Massachusetts Startups Grow and Create Jobs   START grants help companies turn cutting-edge research into new products, businesses and jobs in Massachusetts

BOSTON – The Healey-Driscoll Administration and MassVentures today announced $4.5 million in grants to 26 Massachusetts startups developing cutting-edge technologies in life sciences, robotics, artificial intelligence, quantum computing, clean energy and other growing industries.  The funding is being awarded through MassVentures’ SBIR Targeted Technologies (START) Grant Program, which helps Massachusetts companies turn federally funded research into new products and businesses. START grants provide companies with funding to grow their businesses, bring new technologies to market and create jobs in Massachusetts.     “Some of the most exciting new technologies in the world are being developed right here in Massachusetts,” said Governor Maura Healey. “We want the entrepreneurs behind those ideas to start their businesses, create jobs and grow right here too. These grants will help 26 innovative companies take the next step and continue building their future in Massachusetts.”  “Massachusetts has incredible researchers and entrepreneurs with ideas that can change industries and improve people’s lives,” said Lieutenant Governor Kim Driscoll. “START gives early-stage companies the support they need to turn those ideas into real products, attract investment and create jobs in communities across our state.”  "Massachusetts has long been a place where groundbreaking ideas become world-changing companies," said Massachusetts Economic Development Secretary Eric Paley. "These START grants help companies move breakthrough research from the lab into the marketplace, creating jobs, attracting investment and helping the next generation of deep tech businesses start and scale here in Massachusetts." “The record number of applications we received this year tells us that demand for this kind of support has never been higher,” said MassVentures President and CEO Charlie Hipwood. “The companies we are announcing today represent some of the most exciting science and engineering coming out of Massachusetts — and with state support behind them, they are positioned to turn that research into jobs, capital, and lasting economic impact for the Commonwealth.”  Since launching START in 2012, MassVentures has awarded $46.2 million to 157 companies that have employed more than 3,400 and raised more than $5 billion in private capital. The businesses, 65 percent of which are outside Boston and Cambridge, cover more than 40 locations throughout the state.    START provides grants of $100,000 to $500,000 to help early-stage companies turn federally funded research into growing businesses. The funding supports critical needs not covered by federal research grants, including marketing, business development and intellectual property strategy, helping companies bring new technologies to market and grow in Massachusetts. START supports companies across industries including biotech, robotics, advanced materials, artificial intelligence, quantum computing and clean technology.   The recipients of this year’s Stage III Awards ($500,000) are:     Bloomer Tech (Boston) is making cardiovascular disease visible in women at its earliest, most treatable stages. Its clinically validated Bloomer TAG™ (a medical-grade wearable bra) and digital biomarker platform addresses one of the largest and most costly blind spots in cardiovascular care.  Emvolon (Woburn) is commercializing a platform technology that converts greenhouse gas emissions into carbon-negative fuels and chemicals today.   PhagePro, P.B.C. (Mansfield) is an early-stage biotech startup reimagining bacterial outbreak prevention with rapid-response, oral bacteriophage-based prophylactics.  The recipients of this year’s Stage II Awards ($200,000) are:    AutonomUS Medical Technologies (Cambridge) is developing “The Pocket Interventionalist™,” a handheld device that combines artificial intelligence, ultrasound, and robotics to perform critical medical procedures quickly, safely, and reliably across civilian, military, and point-of-care environments.   Enigma Aerospace (Burlington) is redefining logistics with ultra long-range, autonomous cargo aircraft designed for dual-use applications.    Highland Instruments (Cambridge) is innovating ESStim™, a novel noninvasive brain stimulation platform to help patients address Parkinson's Disease.   Nanopath (Cambridge) is a diagnostics company pioneering the use of plasmonic biosensing to enable point-of-care molecular diagnostics for women's health applications.   Optigon (Somerville) is developing high-speed research instruments and manufacturing inspection tools to accelerate the deployment of solar photovoltaics and other advanced material technologies.   Qunett (Boston) is building the foundational hardware stack for scalable, platform-agnostic quantum networks, paving the way for global quantum connectivity.   Sangtera (Lowell) is developing a breakthrough electrostatic actuation system, delivering high performance in an ultra-compact form factor, for applications from robotics to semiconductor advanced packaging.   The recipients of this year’s Stage I Awards ($100,000) are:   AiRANACULUS (Lowell) is building the future of adaptive, high-performance communications for the world’s most demanding environments with intelligent RF, passive sensing and networking technology that senses, adapts, and reconfigures in real time.  BioDevek (Cambridge) is building the next generation of minimally invasive bleeding control with a sprayable liquid bandage that instantly seals and protects tissue during endoscopy.  CranioSense (Bedford) is building the first noninvasive platform to measure intracranial pressure, delivering a fast, accurate, and low-cost alternative to today’s invasive, high-risk methods.  EvoDenovo (Andover) is developing a breakthrough, rapid-acting biologic to transform the standard of care for severe and treatment-resistant depression.  GelSight (Waltham) is commercializing high-resolution tactile sensing technology for robotics and manufacturing.   InnoTech Precision Medicine (Natick/Cambridge) has developed a pioneering liquid biopsy platform that integrates cancer-risk and host-response biomarkers with AI decision support.  Koi Biotherapeutics (Boston) a spinout of Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, is developing a protein-based technology designed to improve the activity, persistence, and durability of engineered cell therapies such as CAR-T.  Limax Biosciences (Boston) has developed a hydrogel-based tissue adhesive platform that delivers rapid, durable bonding to wet tissue surfaces, up to 100–1000× stronger than competing products, to transform biosurgery and integrated drug delivery.  Matrisome Bio (Cambridge) By unlocking the tumor matrix as a powerful therapeutic platform, Matrisome Bio is tackling the largest unmet need in oncology: metastatic solid tumors that often evade traditional cell-targeted therapies.  Myrias Optics, Inc. (Amherst) focuses on metaoptics, diffractive optics, and AR waveguides, delivering wafer-level optical solutions that integrate advanced nanostructures with cost-efficient, high-throughput manufacturing.  Optical Waters (Amherst) is developing patent-pending ultraviolet optical fiber solutions that emit germicidal UV light along their entire length to disinfect small channels, complex geometries, and narrow-diameter tubing where traditional disinfection methods cannot reach.  RISE Robotics (Somerville) is electrifying heavy machinery by replacing traditional hydraulics with high-efficiency, fluid-free actuation systems.  rStream (Somerville) deploys AI-driven waste sorting systems to help the largest events in the world recycle effectively.  SpaceRake (Watertown) is building software-defined laser mesh networks for drones, ground vehicles, and satellites to deliver secure and interference-free connectivity for military and industrial platforms.   Valis Insights (Worcester) is building AI-powered solutions that make recycling more profitable, material supply chains more sustainable, and close the loop on a circular economy for metal production.  Venova Technologies (Cambridge) is developing a novel female contraceptive device designed to be highly effective, long-acting, and side-effect-free.

Healey-Driscoll Administration Announces First Statewide Heat Resilience Officer

Healey-Driscoll Administration Announces First Statewide Heat Resilience Officer

New statewide role will strengthen efforts to protect residents, support communities, and prepare Massachusetts from extreme heat

WORCESTER — As Massachusetts experiences hotter summers and more frequent, long-lasting heat waves, Governor Maura Healey today announced the appointment of Katie Schlick as Massachusetts’ first statewide Heat Resilience Officer. 

Massachusetts is the second state in the nation to establish a statewide position dedicated to extreme heat. Schlick will lead coordination across state government and work with communities to prepare for rising temperatures, protect public health and reduce the impacts of extreme heat.

The announcement was made at Clark University, home to the Human-Environment Regional Observatory (HERO) Program. For more than two decades, HERO researchers have studied how communities experience environmental change and how local planning can reduce climate risks. 

“Extreme heat is becoming more common, more intense and more dangerous in Massachusetts,” said Governor Maura Healey. “We need to be ready for what that means for our families and communities. This new role will lead our work to prepare for extreme heat and make sure we’re doing everything we can to keep Massachusetts and our residents safe.” 

“Cities and towns are already seeing the impacts of hotter summers, and we want to make sure they have the support they need,” said Lieutenant Governor Kim Driscoll. “This new role will help communities plan ahead, reduce the risks of extreme heat and put solutions in place that make a real difference for residents.”

“Extreme heat is the deadliest weather hazard in the U.S., killing more Americans than hurricanes, floods, tornadoes and other weather hazards combined,” said Climate Chief Melissa Hoffer. “July 2026 was the hottest month ever recorded in the U.S., and an estimated 20,000 people died in the European heat wave in June. Extreme heat and droughts have caused global crop losses this year and threaten water supplies, as well as infrastructure, like railways and runways, that was not built to withstand these temperatures. Ecosystems like forests, that can help us mitigate the effects of extreme heat are stressed. This is what climate change looks like. As we fight to zero out the dangerous fossil fuel pollution causing climate change, we must simultaneously make the changes that will keep our residents safer. Our whole-of-government approach is working, and we are thrilled to welcome Katie to the team to lead this critically important work.”

“This summer was another reminder that climate change is making extreme heat more common across Massachusetts,” said Energy and Environmental Affairs Secretary Rebecca Tepper. “We need to adapt just as quickly. The new Heat Resilience Officer will help us build on the important work already underway across the state. Katie will be looking out for workers, seniors, students, and neighborhoods with extreme temperatures.”

"Extreme heat is a predictable public health threat, and that recognition gives us an opportunity to prepare and act before people get sick," said DPH Commissioner Robbie Goldstein, MD, PhD. "As the inaugural Massachusetts Heat Resilience Officer, Katie Schlick will help us turn what we know into what we do, bringing public health data, climate science, and the experience of communities together into a clear, coordinated statewide approach that will help protect people from the dangers of extreme heat."

 

Schlick will report jointly to Climate Chief Hoffer and Department of Public Health (DPH) Commissioner Robbie Goldstein, MD, PhD. She will also work closely with the Massachusetts Emergency Management Agency (MEMA), Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs, and all state agencies to improve preparedness for extreme heat events and support communities across Massachusetts. The position is funded through generous support from The Boston Foundation. 

Schlick brings extensive experience advancing climate resilience at the federal, state, and regional levels. Most recently, she worked on federal and external affairs and led the resilience portfolio at the U.S. Climate Alliance, supporting states in developing and implementing resilience and extreme heat strategies. Previously, she served as Special Assistant to the White House National Climate Advisor, where she helped advance national climate policy and coordinate major initiatives, including the first White House Summits on Extreme Heat and Building Climate Resilient Communities. Earlier in her career, she worked as an environmental planner in Connecticut. She is a graduate of Yale University and has dedicated her career to developing climate solutions that protect public health and strengthen communities.

“Amidst another record-breaking year of heat and smoke, Massachusetts is taking bold, coordinated action to protect and uplift our communities,” said Heat Resilience Officer Katie Schlick. “I am grateful to Governor Healey and the Boston Foundation for establishing our Commonwealth’s first Heat Resilience Officer position and kickstarting a government-wide, community-centered partnership to tackle extreme heat—everywhere from schools and summer camps to health centers, workplaces, and our electric grid. I am thrilled to join the Massachusetts team to work alongside state and local leaders to broaden our understanding of the heat challenge and equip ourselves with diverse solutions that will leave the Commonwealth more prepared and more resilient."

Since taking office, Governor Healey has made climate resilience a priority, investing in communities and strengthening the state’s ability to prepare for the impacts of climate change. She has expanded support for local climate resilience through the Municipal Vulnerability Preparedness (MVP) Program and filed the Mass Ready Act to strengthen infrastructure and help communities prepare for flooding, extreme heat and other climate risks. This year, Governor Healey also launched the Environment & Climate One Stop (ECO One Stop), making it easier for communities to access state funding for climate resilience and environmental projects.

Governor Healey has also established the Office of Climate Resilience and Innovation and designated Climate Officers across state secretariats to strengthen climate planning and coordination across state government. The new Heat Resilience Officer will build on this work by bringing dedicated expertise and coordination to Massachusetts’ efforts to prepare for extreme heat.

Healey-Driscoll Administration Awards $45 Million to Protect Massachusetts Communities from Flooding, Extreme Heat and Climate Impacts

Healey-Driscoll Administration Awards $45 Million to Protect Massachusetts Communities from Flooding, Extreme Heat and Climate Impacts 

New “ECO One Stop” combines major state environmental grant applications to make it easier for communities to move resilience projects forward 

SALEM – The Healey-Driscoll Administration today announced more than $45 million in grants to support 97 projects that will help communities across Massachusetts better withstand flooding, extreme heat, coastal erosion, and other climate impacts. The funding, awarded through the Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs’ (EEA’s) new Environment & Climate (ECO) One Stop program, will help strengthen infrastructure, restore and enhance natural resources, and improve public safety while making it easier to access state funding for climate resilience projects. 

The administration announced the first round of ECO One Stop grant awards at Winter Island Park in Salem, where funding will support coastal bank restoration that protects the shoreline from storm damage and erosion. The project will improve public safety and pedestrian access, restore native vegetation, and preserve archaeological and historic resources dating back 6,000 years.

“Massachusetts needs infrastructure that can withstand flooding, extreme heat and severe storms,” said Governor Maura Healey. “This $45 million investment will help communities protect residents, strengthen roads, dams, coastlines and other critical infrastructure and lower costs. ECO One Stop is making it faster and easier for communities to access the funding they need to get these important projects moving.” 

“Every community has projects that can make neighborhoods safer, healthier, and more resilient to climate change, and local leaders know where those investments are needed most,” said Lieutenant Governor Driscoll. “ECO One Stop gives municipalities, Tribes, nonprofits, and regional partners a simpler way to access state funding so they can spend less time on paperwork and more time delivering projects that benefit Communities.”

The inaugural ECO One Stop pilot round includes seven state grant programs supporting projects that reduce climate risks and strengthen communities, including Municipal Vulnerability Preparedness (MVP) Action, Dam & Seawall Repair or Removal, Coastal Resilience, Coastal Habitat and Water Quality, Cooling Corridors, Culvert Replacement Municipal Assistance, Culvert Replacement Training Site, and Planning Assistance. A total of 97 projects received awards, including 71 municipal projects, 14 regional planning agencies, seven nonprofit organizations, two Tribes, and three other public entities. 

Funded projects span every region of Massachusetts and address some of the state’s most pressing climate challenges. Projects include: 

South Hadley: Removing outdated dam control structures and restoring wetlands to reduce flood risk 
Chaubunagungamaug Band of Nipmuck Indians: Designing a Community Climate Resilience Hub  
Plymouth: Adding green infrastructure and tree plantings downtown to reduce flooding and extreme heat
Westborough: Designing replacements of three undersized culverts to improve stormwater management 
Devens: Planting trees near critical community facilities to provide relief from extreme heat
Haverhill: Developing a sustainable water supply plan to support future housing and economic growth 
Revere: Launching a residential flood resilience retrofit program 
Boston: Restoring wetlands and streams at the Boston Nature Center 
Martha’s Vineyard: Creating a comprehensive salt marsh restoration strategy across the island
To see the full list of projects and communities funded, visit the ECO One Stop grants page.

“We’ve seen firsthand this summer how heavy, sudden rainfall can overwhelm aging dams and culverts, how extreme heat can harm vulnerable populations, and how storms can drive bacteria to our beaches and strain our wastewater systems,” said EEA Secretary Rebecca Tepper. “The ECO One Stop program combines the power of many of the state’s major environmental grant programs in one place, so municipalities can act quickly and think creatively about how to invest in their communities. Through this investment, we’re making sure that water has a safe place to go during downpours, that communities can cool down when temperatures rise, and that our most treasured natural resources are preserved for generations to come.”

As part of this pilot round, EEA sought extensive feedback from applicants about their experience using the new system. EEA will be working to incorporate improvements into the next 2027 grant round. 

Climate readiness is also a core piece of Governor Healey’s proposed Mass Ready Act, which includes $642 million to prepare for inland and coastal flooding and $388 million to invest in climate preparedness. The administration is also working to ensure communities have the resources to strengthen critical water infrastructure. The Governor recently called on the Trump administration to fully fund the Clean Water and Drinking Water State Revolving funds, which help communities finance drinking water and wastewater infrastructure projects across Massachusetts. 

ECO One Stop is a key initiative under ResilientMass, the statewide climate adaptation plan to reduce risk and strengthen communities in the face of climate change impacts.  The program is modeled on the success of Community One Stop for Growth, a similar combined grant program that focuses on economic development and housing.

波士頓市長吳弭任命蔡欣蓓接任創新與科技資訊長

蔡欣蓓。（波士頓市府檔案照片）

     （Boston Orange編譯）波士頓市長吳弭（Michelle Wu）今（ 13） 日宣佈，任命蔡欣蓓（Shin-pei Tsay）接替離職的加西亞斯（Santi Garces），出任創新與科技局（DoIT）資訊長（CIO），以強化全市數位基礎設施與公共服務。

    蔡欣佩原任波士頓市研究與數據長，曾領導市長城市力學辦公室（Mayor’s Office of Urban Mechanics），並推動首個全市數據戰略。她擁有倫敦政經學院（LSE）碩士學位，歷任 Uber 全球城市與永續政策主管、Gehl 研究院執行董事及 TransitCenter 副執行董事，在跨領域科技與交通創新領域經驗豐富。

    創新與科技局近年推動多項革新，包括簡化線上房產查詢與納稅流程、頒布首個全市生成式 AI 政策、與 Google 合作推動 Project Green Light 第二期，並升級 Wicked Free Wi-Fi 服務，造訪學校、圖書館等公用設施，惠及逾 13 萬名居民。

    前資訊長加西亞斯在位四年後離職，轉赴哈佛大學任教並研究政府未來與 AI 應用。吳弭市長指出，蔡欣蓓將在既有良好基礎上，繼續打造以市民為中心的科技服務。

MAYOR MICHELLE WU ANNOUNCES SHIN-PEI TSAY AS CHIEF INFORMATION OFFICER FOR CITY OF BOSTON

BOSTON - Thursday, August 13, 2026 -  Mayor Michelle Wu today announced Shin-pei Tsay as Chief Information Officer for the Department of Innovation and Technology (DoIT), a key senior role focused on strengthening City’s digital infrastructure and service delivery across neighborhoods. Santi Garces, who served as CIO for the past four years, has joined Harvard University to work on research and teaching related to the future of government, artificial intelligence, and innovation.  

“Our team is driven by innovative leaders who bring creative solutions to improving City services and better serve our community,” said Mayor Michelle Wu. “Shin‑pei Tsay will lead the Department of Innovation and Technology’s work to strengthen the digital tools and infrastructure that residents rely on, building on the strong foundation laid by Santi Garces. I’m excited to welcome her to the role to continue advancing the technologies that help the City better serve residents. ”

“As we continue modernizing City services, these appointments ensure we have trusted, experienced leadership in place,” said Clare Kelly, City of Boston Chief of Staff. “Shin-pei will help us build on the City’s strong foundation and we look forward to her leadership of this critical cabinet that ensures our city workforce, residents, businesses, and families are connected to high quality services and resources.”

DoIT plays a critical role in enabling the effective delivery of public services, programs and products for residents, families, businesses, and visitors. Over the past years, DoIT has implemented a wave of advancements that are reshaping how people access services, data, and technology infrastructure to do everything they need to do. Building on City efforts to improve service delivery, DoIT has overhauled the City’s digital infrastructure and websites, including assessing information online, making it easier for residents to look up property information online and pay taxes. Additionally, DoIT recently adopted the first citywide generative artificial intelligence policy and released a second phase of Project Green Light in partnership with Google. DoIT has also improved Wicked Free Wi-Fi to deliver high quality internet for the public in schools, libraries, police stations, fire stations and other municipal buildings, serving over 130,000 residents. 

“I’m deeply honored to continue serving the City of Boston and support the vision of Mayor Wu at this critical time when nearly everything is technology enabled,” said Shin-pei Tsay, Chief Information Officer. “Great technology infrastructure can immensely improve and scale public service so that it centers people. The everyday experiences people have from taking their kids to school, looking up property information, or reporting issues on the street is the work of local government, and I’m excited to continue building on all the resident-centered innovation Boston has done so that we can meet future challenges and expand access so that everyone can thrive.” 

Shin-pei Tsay currently serves as the City’s Chief Research and Data Officer, where she launched the first city-wide data strategy, and formerly led the Mayor’s Office of Urban Mechanics. Tsay has devoted her career to making cities work better for people at the intersection of public space, transportation, climate, and civic technology. Her past leadership roles include head of global cities and sustainability policy at Uber where she drove the policy initiative behind the company’s global sustainability commitment; founding executive director at the Gehl Institute where she launched the Public Life Data Protocol with San Francisco, Seattle, and Copenhagen; deputy executive director of Transit Center where she established pillars of public transportation reform including transit board capacity building, emerging technologies, and bus network redesign; director of cities and transportation program at the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace where she researched demand-side policies that supported stronger connections between federal transportation and climate policy arenas; and deputy director at Transportation Alternatives where she was a leader in an all-sector movement to accelerate urban transportation innovations from safe pedestrian street designs and bike lane networks to Vision Zero. She was recognized as a Local IT Leader by State Scoop in 2025 and as a Sustainability Star by AdWeek in 2022. 

Tsay holds a Master of Science in Cities, Space & Society from the London School of Economics, a B.A. with Distinction in Government from Cornell University and has served on the New York City Public Design Commission; multiple non-profit organizations, most recently as Vice Chair of SPUR, the Bay-area civic planning institution; and taught urban design at Parsons School of Design and Columbia Graduate School of Architecture, Planning, and Preservation. She is currently a member of the Harvard Extension School’s Sustainability Master of Liberal Arts Advisory Board.