Massachusetts’ Gains Jobs, Labor Force Continues to Grow in September

Massachusetts’ Gains Jobs, Labor Force Continues to Grow in September

Boston – Today, the Executive Office of Labor and Workforce Development (EOLWD) released Massachusetts unemployment and job estimates for September 2026, with preliminary data indicating that payroll jobs increased by 3,500 for the month, following a revised decrease of 5,600 jobs in August. Massachusetts has added 16,300 payroll jobs, including 13,000 private sector jobs, since September 2025. Preliminary data also shows the September unemployment rate remained at 4.3% and the labor force participation rate increased to 65.4%.

BLS categories with the strongest growth month-over-month for Massachusetts employment in September includes 1) Financial Activities (+2,500), 2) Professional and Business Services (+2,400), and 3) Trade, Transportation, and Utilities (+2,000).

“There were several positive labor market signals in September,” said EOLWD’s Department of Economic Research Chief Economist Mark Rembert. “Jobs grew, the unemployment rate remained stable, the labor force participation rate increased, and the labor force saw the largest monthly increase in more than 2 years.”

The Massachusetts labor force increased in September by 8,400 with 7,800 more residents employed and 600 more unemployed. This includes individuals who have retired or left the workforce for other reasons and individuals who are self-employed and entrepreneurs. 

In recent weeks, the Healey-Driscoll Administration has announced or highlighted several investments tied to job creation, training, and workforce opportunities. Highlights include:

• Governor Healey announced $2 million in GROW grants to help registered apprenticeship intermediaries partner with employers to create and expand opportunities that connect Massachusetts residents with paid training and good-paying careers within high-demand industries, including automotive technology, banking, culinary arts, healthcare and social service, and manufacturing.
  
  
• Governor Healey announced $330 million for 403 local economic development and housing projects in 207 communities across Massachusetts through the Community One Stop for Growth. The awards will support more than 27,000 new homes, more than 13,000 permanent jobs, and more than 7 million square feet of new commercial development, while helping unlock an estimated $24.6 billion in private investment.
  
  
• Governor Healey announced nearly $40 million in tax incentives for 38 life sciences companies that are expected to create 1,644 new jobs across Massachusetts.
  
  
• Governor Healey announced that the Massachusetts Economic Assistance Coordinating Council (EACC) approved $11.5 million in tax credits for 10 business expansion projects expected to create 674 new jobs, retain 1,093 existing jobs and generate more than $339 million in private investment across Massachusetts.
  
  
• In September, Governor Healey announced $2.25 million in Re-entry Workforce Development Demonstration Program grants to 12 organizations that will provide job training, career support and employment opportunities to 445 formerly incarcerated individuals returning to their communities.

Key takeaways from the monthly jobs and employment report

• The Massachusetts unemployment rate in September remained at 4.3 percent. The national unemployment rate is at 4.2 percent.
  
  
• The state’s Labor Force Participation Rate increased to 65.4 percent. Massachusetts Labor Force Participation Rate is 3.6 percentage points higher than the national rate.
  
  
• The labor force increased in September by 8,400 with 7,800 more residents employed and 600 more unemployed. This includes individuals who have retired or left the workforce for other reasons and individuals who are self-employed and entrepreneurs.
• The September increase in the labor force was the highest in more than 2-years.
  

For a detailed overview of the BLS data, please visit the Department of Economic Research website. October unemployment and job estimates are scheduled to be released on Friday, November 20, 2026.

Labor Market Quick Links

• Mass.gov/UnemploymentRates
• Unemployment and Labor Force Data
• Employment Information by Industry
• Employment Information by Occupation
• Labor Market Information 101

MassHire Services

MassHire provides free workforce services for both jobseekers and employers across Massachusetts. Jobseekers can explore job openings, attend hiring events, access training opportunities, and receive personalized support online or by visiting a career center. Employers can connect with Business Services Representatives to recruit their workforce and participate in job fairs to support hiring and business growth.

Note: The unemployment rate is based on a household survey, while job estimates come from an employer survey. Because these surveys are separate, the two statistics may show different trends from month to month.

Governor Healey Announces $6 Million to Expand Job Training and Career Opportunities Across Massachusetts

 Governor Healey Announces $6 Million to Expand Job Training and Career Opportunities Across Massachusetts

Community Workforce Partnerships grants will support 34 projects that connect residents to employment, higher wages and small business opportunities

BOSTON — Governor Maura Healey announced $6 million in Community Workforce Partnerships grants to support 34 projects across 17 Massachusetts communities. The awards will help residents gain in-demand skills, earn industry credentials and pursue new jobs, higher wages and small business opportunities, while addressing barriers such as child care, transportation and housing instability.

Administered by the Executive Office of Economic Development, the program provides one-year operating grants to nonprofit organizations working with local partners to address workforce needs identified by their communities. 

“We're focused on making Massachusetts the best place to start and grow a business, create jobs and build a career,” said Governor Maura Healey. “These $6 million in grants will help businesses find the skilled workers they need to grow while giving more residents the tools to start their own businesses, access new opportunities and get ahead. When our local businesses succeed, our communities and our economy succeed as well.”

“We want to make sure every small business in Massachusetts has what they need to grow and succeed,” said Lieutenant Governor Kim Driscoll. “These grants will support local organizations that are helping residents develop new skills, start businesses and connect with employers right in their own communities. That's how we create jobs, support local businesses and strengthen economies across Massachusetts.”

“A training program should lead to a real opportunity, whether that’s a new job, a higher wage or the skills to grow a business,” said Economic Development Secretary Eric Paley. “These organizations are listening to residents and employers, then building practical pathways between the two. Pairing training with support for transportation, child care and housing helps more people complete their programs and put their skills to work.”

Funded through the Workforce Investment Trust Fund, Community Workforce Partnerships supports job skills training, literacy and language instruction, and small business workforce development. The program promotes economic mobility for low-income residents and young people facing barriers to employment by pairing training with supportive services that help participants complete programs and move into new or better employment within a year.

The 2027 Community Workforce Partnerships grant recipients are:

A Healthier Democracy (Boston) — $150,000: The Dorchester Patient Navigator Workforce Pathway project trains Dorchester residents facing barriers to economic mobility for paid Patient Navigator roles in health care settings. 

Action for Equity Inc. (Boston) — $150,000: Action for Equity expands technical training in building decarbonization and operations for Dorchester residents and TechBoston students. 

Asian American Civic Association (Boston) — $200,000: AACA and St. Mark’s Community Education Program provide Boston residents with limited English proficiency with training in building maintenance, weatherization, and banking and finance. 

Breaktime United, Inc. (Boston) — $200,000: Breaktime's Launchpad Job Training and Liftoff Work Placement project serves young adults experiencing housing insecurity through paid workforce training, financial literacy education, and work placements with the TLE Center for Urban Entrepreneurship. 

Charlestown Adult Education, Workforce, and Reentry (Boston Public Housing Corp) (Boston) — $200,000: CAE prepares HiSET graduates and ESOL students for employment and credentialed career training through a six-week workforce development program. 

Community Labor United (Boston) — $200,000: Community Labor United supports Boston residents from groups historically underrepresented in the building trades as they pursue union apprenticeships. 

Community Work Services (Community Workshops Inc) (Boston) — $200,000: WorkReady Pathways prepares participants for construction and hospitality careers. 

Digital Ready (Boston) — $200,000: Digital Ready's Year 13 program provides job training and economic mobility support for Boston-based young adults by combining early college courses with sequenced work-based technology learning experiences.

Immigrant Family Services Institute (Boston) — $200,000: The Immigrant Family Services Institute provides low-income immigrant adults with a 12-week state-approved Nurse Aide Training Program. 

More Than Words (MTW) (Boston) — $200,000: The project supports young people with foster care, court-system, or homelessness experience as they move from entry-level employment toward living-wage green careers. 

Mujeres Unidas Avanzando (MUA) (Boston) — $200,000: Mujeres Unidas Avanzando prepares low-income immigrant Dorchester residents for Clinical Medical Assistant careers. 

Project Place (Interseminarian-Project Place) (Boston) — $180,000: The Boston Workforce and Reentry Coalition provides Boston residents with justice-system involvement with pre- and post-release workforce services, including GED/HiSET and language instruction, credentialing, transitional employment, career coaching, supportive services, and permanent job placement. 

The American City Coalition (Boston) — $200,000: The project expands access to climate careers for court-involved Roxbury residents through PowerCorps Boston’s workforce model. 

Veronica Robles Cultural Center (Boston) — $150,000: The Latino Cultural Entrepreneurship Program will provide Latino immigrant entrepreneurs and culinary microbusinesses in East Boston with culinary industry-oriented small business skill development. 

Victory Programs (Boston) — $123,000: Victory Programs' Enhanced Vocational Pathways Program will provide low-income Boston residents experiencing homelessness, addiction, and chronic health issues with career readiness training, workforce development, adult education, mentorship, paid internships, and job placement services targeting low-barrier occupations. 

La Colaborativa (Chelsea) — $200,000: La Colaborativa's Chelsea Carpentry Pre-Apprenticeship Program provides construction industry-oriented workforce training to young adults in Chelsea, as well as career readiness programming to over 200 participants. 

The Neighborhood Developers (Everett) — $140,000: The Neighborhood Developers ESOL and Employment for Everett program provides 100-120 Everett-based low-income residents with ESOL classes contextualized for individual hiring needs, wraparound supports, and hospitality-oriented job placement.

Jewish Family Service of MetroWest (Framingham) — $140,000: Jewish Family Service of MetroWest provides low- and moderate-income migrants with multilingual home health training leading to industry-recognized certification. Participants receive job-readiness support and direct pathways into local home health employment.

Growing Places Garden Project, Inc. (Gardner) — $104,000: Growing Places prepares Gardner youth and young adults for careers in food systems, nutrition, health care, and agriculture. Participants receive hands-on training, industry-recognized credentials, leadership development, wraparound support, and assistance transitioning to education and employment.

ServiceNet, Inc. (Greenfield) — $200,000: ServiceNet and partners provide Greenfield residents with a paid, supportive workforce training program combining farm-based instruction with specialization in culinary services or farm carpentry. 

Community Action, Inc. (Haverhill) — $165,000: Community Action, Inc. and Whittier Regional Vocational Technical School prepare unemployed and underemployed Haverhill residents for advanced manufacturing careers. 

L'Arche Boston North (Haverhill) — $200,000: L’Arche Boston North operates a training café in Haverhill that prepares adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities for food service and related employment. 

The Community Group, Inc (Lawrence) — $200,000: The Community Group and partners prepare primarily Spanish-speaking women in Lawrence to open licensed family child care businesses. 

International Institute of New England (Lowell) — $200,000: IINE prepares low-income English language learners in Lowell for health care training and employment. 

Boys & Girls Club of Lynn (Lynn) — $150,000: The Lynn Youth Jobs Program provides underserved youth ages 16–22 with on-the-job training, workplace readiness workshops, mentorship, and supportive services. 

Community Economic Development Center of Southeastern Massachusetts (New Bedford) — $98,000: The Logrando Sueños – Family Child Care Entrepreneurship program trains Spanish-speaking New Bedford residents to establish licensed home-based child care businesses. 

MassHire Berkshire Workforce Board (Berkshire County Regional Employment Board Inc) (North Adams) — $100,000: The program prepares North Adams residents and hospitality workers for employment and advancement in the local tourism industry. 

For Kids Only Afterschool Inc. (Peabody) — $200,000: FKO operates a full-time, benefit-eligible registered apprenticeship for out-of-school-time educators. 

The Neighborhood Developers Inc. (Revere) — $200,000: The Revere Works Coalition prepares immigrant adults and youth for employment through workforce-focused ESOL, digital literacy, communication training, internships, and job placements. 

Somerville Community Corporation (Somerville) — $200,000: The Somerville Community Corporation's Women’s Economic Opportunity Initiative will provide low-income immigrant women and women of color in Somerville with socioemotional wellness and leadership development, career coaching and job placement, digital skills training, and housing stabilization support across two cohorts.

Community Music School of Springfield (Springfield) — $200,000: Future Mí provides Springfield teens and young adults with paid, individualized educational and work-based experiences that build practical skills and prepare them for future employment.

EDC 413Works, Inc. (Springfield) — $150,000: Credentials to Careers prepares underemployed adults for licensed financial-services careers and advancement opportunities.

Tech Foundry (Springfield) — $200,000: Tech Foundry's Partnership for Economic Mobility in Springfield program will provide 22 high-need Tech Foundry Springfield students (over age 18) with coaching, case management, and access to support services, along with job placement and employer engagement through regional partners.

Latin American Health Alliance (Worcester) — $200,000: Café Reyes provides Worcester residents facing employment barriers with paid, hands-on training in food preparation, customer service, point-of-sale systems, administration, and workplace professionalism. 

These grants build on the Governor Healey’s efforts to make Massachusetts the best place to start and grow a business, create jobs and expand economic opportunity. Governor Healey filed the Mass Wins Act to lower costs for businesses, attract new investment and strengthen Massachusetts' competitiveness. She also recently announced $330 million for housing and economic development projects in 207 communities through the Community One Stop for Growth, nearly $40 million to help life sciences companies expand and create more than 1,600 jobs, and $11.5 million in tax incentives to support business expansions expected to create nearly 700 jobs. Earlier this year, Governor Healey also awarded $6 million through Business Builds to support projects expected to create 1,000 new jobs and leverage more than $300 million in private investment.

CITY OF BOSTON ANNOUNCES SIX RECIPIENTS OF THE 2026 COMMUNITY CLEAN AIR GRANT PROGRAM

CITY OF BOSTON ANNOUNCES SIX RECIPIENTS OF THE 2026 COMMUNITY CLEAN AIR GRANT PROGRAM BOSTON – Thursday, October 15, 2026 – Mayor Michelle Wu and the City of Boston’s Environment Department today announced the selectees of the 2026 Community Clean Air Grant Program. A total of $1,028,871 will be distributed over the next two years to support six community-based projects designed to reduce air pollution and improve public health, with a focus on Boston’s low income neighborhoods and communities of color.  "Whether at daycare, at school, at home or in a park, air quality is fundamental to quality of life for all our residents,” said Mayor Michelle Wu. “These programs give local organizations the resources to put community-driven solutions into action, making all our spaces safer and healthier for everyone.” The six selectees are:  Chinatown Community Land Trust, Inc. - $150,000 to evaluate the indoor air quality co-benefits of converting historic Chinatown row homes from gas to electric air-source heat pumps through continuous air quality monitoring in ten residences, bilingual resident workshops, and property owner engagement.  Dudley Street Neighborhood Initiative, Inc. - $200,000 to use heat, noise, and air quality sensor data from the 75-sensor Common Senses network to partner with local businesses in Roxbury and Dorchester on interventions and help residents shape a climate-resilient Urban Village Plan incorporating clean air goals. Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health - $94,406 to use schoolyard monitoring, Boston Public Schools’ air quality data, nature-based solutions, and community knowledge at two Boston K-8 schools to evaluate how heat and air quality impact outdoor student spaces and identify practical strategies to improve health during outdoor learning and play.   Mothers Out Front East Boston - $198,352 to utilize new technology to measure ultrafine and fine particles in twenty East Boston daycares and test how well different models of air filters reduce indoor pollution exposure for children and caregivers.  Museum of Science - $199,974 to establish the "Clearing the Air @ MOS" Living Lab and public engagement campaign at the new Public Science Common, featuring immersive digital visualizations, video storytelling, and educational features highlighting City of Boston grantees and air quality solutions for millions of visitors. North American Indian Center of Boston - $184,536 to install air quality monitors and HEPA air purifiers in ten American Indian and Alaska Native households to reduce indoor air pollution, evaluate health impacts, and build a long-term community mitigation plan. Since the 2021, the Community Clean Air Grant Program has awarded $2,284,748 to 13 organizations. This round attracted 20 proposals, reviewed by a fifteen-member committee representing nine City departments. Applications were evaluated based on alignment with program goals, community and equity impacts, feasibility, organizational capacity, clarity of evaluation metrics, and demonstration of local expertise. “Tackling urban air pollution requires direct collaboration with the communities bearing the greatest environmental burdens,” said Brian Swett, City of Boston's Chief Climate Officer. “These six community-led projects demonstrate how local investments can measure pollution, lower health risks, and collect essential data to improve our City’s air quality for generations to come.”  “Chinatown is Boston’s hottest neighborhood and has some of the worst particulate air pollution in the state,” said Lydia Lowe, Executive Director at the Chinatown Community Land Trust Inc. “We are thrilled to receive a Community Clean Air Grant, so that we can now measure the impact of electric heat pump conversion on indoor air quality and residents’ quality of life.” “The Dudley Street Neighborhood Initiative, in partnership with Project RIGHT and the Boston Area Research Initiative at Northeastern University, is using a network of heat, noise, and air quality sensors as community infrastructure, pairing that data with residents' stories to bring solutions to Roxbury and Dorchester,” said Mike Pollio, Deputy Director of Dudley Street Neighborhood Initiative. “With this funding, DSNI will partner with local businesses on air-centered improvements, and residents will use what is learned to shape a neighborhood development plan with clean air at its center." “East Boston children face high pollution risks and are up to four times more likely to have asthma, making data on ultrafine particulates critical for their safety,” said Sonja Tengblad, Founder of Mothers Out Front East Boston. “By partnering with Air Partners and using new QuantAQ technology, we will test different air filter models and provide our community more accurate air quality information and better protection.”  "Clean air is an essential public good, but poor indoor air quality and wildfire smoke continue to endanger children’s health and disrupt their learning," said David Sittenfeld, Director of the Center for the Environment at the Museum of Science. "Clearing the Air @ MOS" will address this crisis by raising awareness of the environmental causes of unhealthy air, highlighting community-led solutions, and inspiring equitable environmental action across the region." “Reclaiming air quality is a vital priority for New England’s urban Indian community, especially after smoke from the recent Canadian wildfire demonstrated how environmental destruction directly impacts First Nations territories and Indigenous health in Boston," said Jean-Luc Pierite, President of the North American Indian Center of Boston. "We are grateful to partner with Air Partners and the City of Boston to advance this critical work.” “This funding will allow us to better understand the air quality and heat conditions children experience in the places where they play, learn, and gather outdoors," said Judith Rodriguez, Senior Research Associate, Harvard Chan School of Public Health. "By working directly with schools and community partners, we hope to translate environmental data into practical actions that support healthier, cooler, and more equitable school environments.”  The program is supported by the Air Pollution Control Commission’s Pollution Abatement Fund. The next round of Community Clean Air Grant applications will open in spring 2027. More information about the program can be found at Boston.gov/clean-air-grant/.

麻州長Healey批準更新消防法規 每年檢查自動灑水頭

        （Boston Orange編譯）麻州州長奚莉（Maura Healey）今（16）日宣佈，批准最新全州消防安全規範，強制規定各類建築物必須每年檢查自動灑水頭是否屬於召回產品，若發現問題須立即更換。

        秋河市（Fall River）消防隊長赫茨勒（Joshua Hetzler）提出這項新規定，旨在汲取去年「加百列之家（Gabriel House）」老人公寓大火，造成10人死亡，50 多人撤離的慘痛教訓，預計將於明年班部新版《麻州綜合消防安全法規》後正式施行。

        根據這最新修訂的消防法規，房屋所有權人若發現系統使用已被召回的自動灑水頭，必須立即通報當地消防局並迅速完成更換。在替換裝備完成前，地方消防局有權要求業主採取額外的臨時防火措施，以確保住戶安全。

        除了強制檢查自動灑水頭外，麻州消防預防法規委員會（Board of Fire Prevention Regulations, BFPR）同時通過更新多項法規，包含當風速超過每小時15英里（約每秒6.7公尺）時，嚴禁進行焊接與磨削等高溫作業（Hot Work），相關從業人員也必須每三年重新接受安全培訓。新規定還簡化了許可證申請流程，並將全州標準與美國國家安全規範進一步接軌。

新版法規還特別向因公罹患職業性癌症逝世的比勒利卡（Billerica）消防局副局長費拉羅（Thomas J. Ferraro）致敬。

 Governor Healey Announces New Fire Safety Requirements Approved to Protect Massachusetts Residents

 New statewide requirements strengthen sprinkler safety and build on administration’s actions following Gabriel House tragedy

STOW— Governor Maura Healey today announced the approval of new statewide fire safety requirements to help prevent future tragedies and strengthen protections for Massachusetts residents following the deadly Gabriel House fire in Fall River last year. The new standards will require annual checks for recalled fire sprinkler heads, prompt replacement of recalled equipment and additional safety measures when needed to protect residents.

The Massachusetts Board of Fire Prevention Regulations voted today to include the new requirements in the next edition of the Massachusetts Comprehensive Fire Safety Code, expected early next year. The changes were proposed by Fall River Fire Captain Joshua Hetzler following the Gabriel House tragedy, which claimed 10 lives and required the evacuation of more than 50 other residents. The updated regulations build on the Governor Healey's ongoing efforts to strengthen fire safety, emergency preparedness and accountability across Massachusetts.

“The Gabriel House fire was a heartbreaking tragedy that devastated families and the Fall River community. We owe it to those families to do everything we can to prevent something like this from happening again,” said Governor Maura Healey. “That's why we've taken action to strengthen fire safety and emergency preparedness at assisted living residences, and these new requirements will help protect even more people across Massachusetts. I'm grateful to the Fall River firefighters who brought these recommendations forward and to the Board for taking action. We will continue working to strengthen safety, prevent future tragedies and protect our residents.”

Under the updated Fire Code, sprinkler systems will be required to undergo annual checks to identify any recalled sprinkler heads. Property owners must notify their local fire department when recalled equipment is identified and ensure it is promptly replaced. Local fire departments will also be able to require additional fire protection measures until the recalled equipment has been replaced. 

“Strong fire prevention standards are essential to protecting lives and keeping our communities safe,” said Public Safety and Security Secretary Gina K. Kwon. “These updates reflect the importance of working with our local fire service partners, listening to those on the front lines, and continually improving our approach to fire safety. We are grateful to the Fall River Fire Department for bringing forward this recommendation and to the Board for its work to strengthen protections across the Commonwealth.”

“The Gabriel House residents and their families have not left our thoughts in the 15 months since that tragic night in 2025,” said State Fire Marshal Jon M. Davine, who sits on the BFPR and voted to include the sprinkler provisions. “Nothing can fill the void left by their loved ones, but I hope this makes clear to them that we are committed to saving other families from enduring the same heartbreak.”

"I am pleased to see these regulations implemented that will address gaps that were made evident in the horrific Gabriel House fire in Fall River,” said Representative Carole Fiola. “We must continue to learn from and rectify issues identified from this tragedy. I thank our brave firefighters, in particular Captain Hetzler for continuing their advocacy and the Healey-Driscoll administration for following through."

 

"I am proud of Governor Healey for making these positive changes with regard to public safety, especially in light of the Gabriel House Fire,” said Representative Alan Silvia. “These updates are so desperately needed. This is great timing as we are in the process of honoring the brave firefighters who participated in that fire."

"The new safety requirements approved today will help to avoid tragedies like the Gabriel House in the future,’’ said Representative Steve Ouellette. “These regulations honor those lost in the fire, and our first responders present that night by addressing not only the safety concerns, but the local fire departments and inspection agency's ability to inspect and enforce the regulations. Thank you for thinking of all parties involved in making our communities safer."

In addition to the new sprinkler safety requirements, the Board approved several other updates to the statewide Fire Code, including:

• Stronger Fire Prevention: Prohibiting welding, grinding and other hot work activities when winds exceed 15 miles per hour and requiring workers to renew their hot work safety training every three years.
• Simplified Permitting and Certification: Consolidating permitting and certification requirements to make them easier for businesses, property owners and fire safety professionals to understand and follow.
• Updated Safety Standards: Bringing Massachusetts' Fire Code into closer alignment with national standards while maintaining state-specific fire safety protections.
  
  

Today's announcement builds on Governor Healey’s ongoing efforts to strengthen safety and accountability following the Gabriel House tragedy. In the aftermath of the fire, Governor Healey convened the Assisted Living Residences Commission to identify opportunities to improve safety and oversight, bringing together families, firefighters, first responders, advocates and providers. In July, the administration finalized sweeping new regulations requiring annual fire inspections, more frequent fire drills, stronger emergency preparedness plans and improved evacuation procedures at assisted living residences across Massachusetts. The administration has also increased transparency by making compliance reports available online and developing new disclosure requirements to help families make informed decisions about their loved ones' care. These efforts reflect Governor Healey's continued commitment to protecting older adults and preventing future tragedies.

The Board voted to dedicate the upcoming edition of the Fire Code to Deputy Chief Thomas J. Ferraro of the Billerica Fire Department and the Department of Fire Services, who fought a brave battle with occupational cancer before passing away in 2025. The Board noted his dedication to fire prevention, fire safety, and the protection of life and property over nearly 40 years of service, as well as his readiness to share his knowledge and experience with others. 

The Board of Fire Prevention Regulations was established to create a statewide fire code following the devastating 1942 fire at the Cocoanut Grove nightclub in Boston, which claimed 492 lives. Its members are appointed by the Governor and represent the fire service and fire prevention; experts in electrical, mechanical, chemical, and blasting systems; fire and life safety inspection officials; and the public. 

MAYOR MICHELLE WU AND BOSTON PARKS AND RECREATION DEPARTMENT CELEBRATE IMPROVEMENTS TO STEVEN P. ODOM SERENITY GARDEN

MAYOR MICHELLE WU AND BOSTON PARKS AND RECREATION DEPARTMENT CELEBRATE IMPROVEMENTS TO STEVEN P. ODOM SERENITY GARDEN

BOSTON - Thursday, October 15, 2026 - Mayor Michelle Wu joined Boston Parks Commissioner Diana Fernandez Bibeau, Redefining Our Communities (ROC), elected officials, and the Dorchester community to cut the ribbon on the newly improved and renamed Steven P. Odom Serenity Garden in Dorchester on October 3. The park, named in honor of Steven Phillip Odom, a 13-year-old Dorchester resident who was a victim of gun violence, was designed as a peaceful space for reflection, remembrance and community connection.

“Beautiful open spaces have the power to heal and bring communities together,” said Mayor Michelle Wu. “The Steven P. Odom Serenity Garden will forever be a place to gather, reflect and honor the lives of those we have lost. Every tree and stone and flower is a tribute to Steven, a beloved 13-year-old whose life was taken too soon. Thanks to the advocacy and dedication of the Odom family, community members and City staff, this garden will serve as a place of peace, healing and hope.”

Steven P. Odom Serenity Garden is a new park adjacent to the new Morton Station Village housing development located on Hopkins Street in Mattapan. The site features a natural stone patio, water fountain, and pillars engraved with words of inspiration and Steven’s own poetry. Complete with new landscaping that features a palette of native and pollinator friendly plants, this quiet space welcomes visitors to pause and reflect. 

“Today marks a milestone for our community as we officially cut the ribbon and welcome the public to the Steven P. Odom Serenity Garden,” said Commissioner Diana Fernandez Bibeau. “Our parks are places where we come together to celebrate, connect with nature, and make memories and they can also be important spaces for reflection and healing. We are honored to have created a space where Steven’s memory, his poetry, and his voice will endure for generations to come. We are grateful to the Odom Family, Redefining Our Communities, and all of our partners for helping shape this project.”

Formerly the location of a Boston Police Department station, the Mayor’s Office of Housing worked alongside the community to transform the land into affordable housing which would include a parcel of open space for the purpose of a city park. The parcel was officially transferred to Boston Parks and Recreation for permanent care and maintenance in January 2025 and construction was supported by Community Preservation Act (CPA) funding. 

Steven P. Odom Serenity Garden was designed by RBLA Design, LLC and constructed by Woodall Construction Co. The project budget included $456,123, funded with $50,000 from the City’s five-year Capital Plan and with construction costs funded by a CPA grant. 

The design of the Odom Serenity Garden was guided by extensive community input gathered through public meetings and surveys beginning in 2018. The park provides a safe, serene place where community members can gather, reflect, remember and find a moment of quiet and peace. A key feature of the design is poetry, written by Steven in 8th grade at the James P. Timilty School and now etched into stone. A butterfly motif was included throughout the park as a symbol of Steven and a purple color palette was chosen to represent serenity and power. 

"For 19 years, October 4th was a day of private grief in our home. This partnership with the City of Boston Parks Department changes that. It means our son Steven P. Odom is no longer just remembered inside our family — he is now part of the fabric of this neighborhood forever,” said Ronald and Kim Odom, parents of Steven P. Odom. “Our hope is that people will be drawn to the healing elements provided in this space/garden. Read Steven’s poems etched in the stones. Sit, reflect, breathe and be inspired by the voice of a 13 year old boy who loved his family, his faith and his community.”

Find more project updates at boston.gov/odom-serenity-garden. To stay up to date with news, events, and improvements in Boston parks visit boston.gov/parks, call (617) 635-4505, join our email list, and follow our social channels at @parks.boston.gov on Bluesky and @bostonparksdept on Facebook and Instagram. 

紐約手扯麵「西安名吃」波士頓首家實體店訂下週開幕

         (Boston Orange編譯) 紐約知名手工扯麵品牌「西安名吃」（Xi’an Famous Foods）執行長王夢迪（Jason Wang）證實，下週末將在波士頓市城中區（Downtown Crossing）華盛頓街255號開張新店，既是該品牌的第21家直營門市，也是進駐波士頓的首家實體分店。

        「西安名吃」去年在洛士百利區（Roxbury）設立了試驗性雲端廚房，提供開放式廚房讓顧客親眼欣賞扯麵過程。店內除了供應涼皮、臘汁肉夾饃和水餃等陝西經典招牌菜之外，還會不定期推出獅子頭湯等限定特餐。這家新開的城中區實體店，占地約48坪，將取代之前的雲端廚房。

        王夢迪與父親施大衛（David Shi）於2005年在紐約法拉盛美食廣場創辦的「西安名吃」， 原本只是一家位於地下室的小店，因曾獲已故美食家安東尼·波登（Anthony Bourdain）大讚「極致美味」，並多次榮獲詹姆斯·比爾德基金會（James Beard Foundation）等權威獎項肯定，名聲大噪。

        「西安名吃」主打陝西傳統的手扯麵，又稱褲帶麵，做法是把寬麵糰甩打，扯寬成帶狀，和拉麵並不相同。

        王夢迪透露，早從2018年開始，他們就在波士頓尋覓合適地點，如今終於實現自力更生，在這兒經營第21家直營門市的理想。將來他們打算在哈佛廣場、海港區及芬威一帶繼續擴展版圖，為更多老饕提供道地西北風味。

Governor Healey Announces $2 Million in Apprenticeship Grants to Expand Access to Jobs

Governor Healey Announces $2 Million in Apprenticeship Grants to Expand Access to Jobs

EOLWD Launches Statewide Tour to Highlight Apprenticeship Opportunities

BOSTON – The Healey-Driscoll Administration today announced $1.9 million in registered apprenticeship grants to expand access to paid training and good-paying careers across Massachusetts. Through the new GROW Intermediary grant program, funding will help organizations partner with employers to create and expand registered apprenticeship programs, giving more residents the opportunity to earn a paycheck while gaining the skills and experience needed to succeed in growing industries.

“Registered Apprenticeship gives people a chance to earn a paycheck while gaining the skills and experience they need to build a lasting career,” said Governor Maura Healey. “Our administration is expanding apprenticeships into more industries and opening these opportunities to more people across Massachusetts. These investments will help employers find the skilled workers they need while creating more pathways to good jobs and economic mobility.”

“Apprenticeships are a win for workers, employers and our communities because they connect people directly to good jobs while helping businesses develop the talent they need to grow,” said Lt. Governor Kim Driscoll. “These grants will strengthen local and regional partnerships, expand apprenticeship into new industries, and create more opportunities for residents across Massachusetts to build rewarding careers.”

Labor and Workforce Development Secretary Lauren Jones announced the awards at Work, Inc. in Dorchester, Massachusetts. At the event, the University of Massachusetts Boston, an intermediary sponsor for Work, Inc., received $175,500 to support 27 Direct Support Professional apprenticeships for individuals with disabilities. The announcement of $1.9 million for the GROW Intermediary grants includes contract renewals and new awards, supported by the state Workforce Investment Trust (WITF) funds and federal State Apprenticeship Expansion Formula (SAEF).

Since January 2023, the Healey-Driscoll Administration has awarded more than $15 million in GROW grants to expand apprenticeship opportunities across Massachusetts. Registered apprenticeships combine paid, on-the-job training with classroom instruction, allowing participants to earn nationally recognized credentials, increase their wages and advance their careers.

The Executive Office of Labor and Workforce Development's Division of Apprentice Standards (DAS) oversees more than 900 registered apprenticeship programs across Massachusetts. While the majority of apprentices work in construction, programs are expanding into industries such as manufacturing, life sciences, education, and health care.

“Registered Apprenticeship is one of the most effective tools we have to connect talent with opportunity and respond directly to employers’ workforce needs,” said Secretary of Labor and Workforce Development Lauren Jones. “By investing in intermediaries, we’re helping more employers launch and expand apprenticeship programs while giving workers access to paid, hands-on training, industry-recognized credentials, and clear pathways to career advancement.”

Secretary Jones also announced the launch of a statewide Registered Apprenticeship Program (RAP) Tour to highlight the administration's investments, showcase successful employer partnerships and promote opportunities in high-demand industries. The RAP tour will feature apprenticeship programs in health care, life sciences, manufacturing, education and the skilled trades. In describing the RAP tour, Secretary Jones added “we are excited to showcase these partnerships as well as the growing range of industries putting this proven model to build talent today.”

The RAP Tour includes the following stops:

• Thursday, October 15, 9 a.m. - 10 a.m., Gutman Conference Center, 6 Appian Way, Cambridge, MA: Secretary Jones kicks off the American Swiss Foundation’s Innovation Forum on Apprenticeship 
  
  
• Tuesday, October 20, 12:30 p.m. – 1:30 p.m., Pfizer, 1 Burtt Rd, Andover, MA: Secretary Jones will visit Pfizer's registered apprenticeship program in partnership with MassBioEd to highlight apprenticeship in the life sciences
  
  
• Wednesday, October 21: Secretary will visit Waltham Public Schools’ Teacher Registered Apprenticeship Program in partnership with DESE to highlight apprenticeship in education
  
  
• Thursday, October 29, 12 p.m. – 1 p.m., IBEW Local 223, 475 Myles Standish Blvd, Taunton: Secretary Jones will announce GROW Grant Awards at IBEW Local 223, including investments in the building trades and expansion industries
  
  
• Thursday, October 29: 2 p.m. - 3 p.m., BAYADA Health, 2 Hampshire Street, Suite 108, Foxborough, MA: Secretary Jones will visit BAYADA health to highlight the state’s first residency Registered Nurse (RN) and Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) Registered Apprenticeship Program to showcase apprenticeship in healthcare

In addition to launching today’s investments to scale Registered Apprenticeship intermediaries, Governor Healey has taken further steps to make it easier and more affordable for employers to participate in registered apprenticeship programs. Earlier this year, she lowered the annual program fee for Registered Apprenticeship sponsors from $300 to $250 and expanded eligibility for the Registered Apprenticeship Tax Credit to include occupations featuring AI-related credentials, defense manufacturing, and additional manufacturing occupations.

In 2025, DAS approved $988,800 in registered apprenticeship tax credits to 50 employers supporting 206 apprentices, more than double the number in previous years.

“Apprenticeship intermediaries help employers build training programs that connect workers to good careers,” said Undersecretary of Labor Josh Cutler. “These GROW grants will help more businesses launch and expand apprenticeships, creating new opportunities for Massachusetts workers.”

“We are very excited to be able to fund these new and existing partners who are going to help us scale Registered Apprenticeship throughout the Commonwealth,” said Director of the Division of Apprentice Standards Lara Thomas. “These investments will help create meaningful pathways to good-paying careers for more Massachusetts residents.”

The 10 organizations receiving GROW Intermediary Grants today, projecting to register 303 apprentices in total, includes:

• Apprentos (Barnstable and Plymouth Counties): $117,000 to place and train 18 Automotive Service Tech Apprenticeships.

• Bridge Club of Greater Lowell – Troubled Waters Inc. (Lowell): $156,000 to place and train 24 Culinary Apprenticeships for individuals in recovery.

• Boston Private Industry Council (Boston): $468,000 to train and place 72 Surgical Technician, Sterile Processing Technician and Medical Assistant Apprenticeships.

• Brighter Boston (Boston): $26,000 to train and place 4 Audio Visual Apprenticeships.

• Cape Cod Community College (West Barnstable): $117,000 to train and place 18 Marine Outboard Technician Apprenticeships.

• Greater Boston Chamber of Commerce Foundation (Boston): $212,250 to train and place 33 Building Maintenance Apprenticeships.

• Hamilton-Ryker Group (Burlington and Boston): $260,000 to train and place 40 Surgical Technician and Radiologic Technician Apprenticeships.

• Massachusetts Bankers Association (Statewide): $169,270 to train and place 22 Credit Analyst Apprenticeships.

• MassHire Hampden County Workforce Board (Springfield): $292,500 to train and place 45 Healthcare, Social Services and Manufacturing Apprenticeships.

• University of Massachusetts Boston (Boston): $175,500 to train and place 27 Direct Support Professional Apprenticeships to provide services to individuals with disabilities.

Statements of Support

Sharon Smith, CEO, WORK Inc.

“The future of disability services in MA depends on our ability to attract, develop, and recognize talented Direct Support Professionals. WORK Inc. is excited to work alongside Road to Responsibility Inc,. the Institute for Community Inclusion at UMass Boston and the GROW Intermediary HUB to build an apprenticeship pathway that elevates the DSP profession and creates opportunities for people to build meaningful, lasting careers.”

Michael O’Neill, Executive Director, Boston PIC/ MassHire Boston Workforce Board

“The Boston Private Industry Council (Boston’s MassHire Workforce Board) is proud to be selected by the Division of Apprentice Standards to expand apprenticeship opportunities in Boston. As an intermediary, the PIC is uniquely positioned to work alongside both employers and apprentices. This grant reflects the strong partnerships we have built with Beth Israel Lahey Health, Mass General Brigham, and Tufts Medical Center, who share our commitment to developing the skilled workforce Boston needs to thrive.”

James E. Rooney, President & CEO of the Greater Boston Chamber of Commerce

“Registered apprenticeships strengthen our workforce by helping employers develop skilled talent while creating pathways to wealth-building careers. We’re grateful to the Healey-Driscoll Administration for this investment, which will allow us to continue growing the Massachusetts Apprentice Network, expand access to apprenticeship opportunities, and build the talent Massachusetts needs to remain competitive.” 

Peter Farkas, President & CEO, MassHire Hampden County Workforce Board

“We are grateful to the Healey-Driscoll Administration, the Executive Office of Labor and Workforce Development, and the Division of Apprentice Standards for this investment in expanding Registered Apprenticeship opportunities across Hampden County. This funding will allow us to build upon our work as an apprenticeship intermediary, helping employers address critical workforce needs while creating meaningful career pathways for residents. Registered Apprenticeship is a proven model that benefits both employers and workers, and this investment will help us expand its reach, strengthen employer