MAYOR WALSH ANNOUNCES 2016 COFFEE HOUR SERIES

MAYOR WALSH ANNOUNCES 2016 COFFEE HOUR SERIES

BOSTON - Thursday, April 21, 2016 - Mayor Martin J. Walsh and the Boston Parks and Recreation Department today announced that the 18 "We've increased our Neighborhood Coffee Hours this year to give even more residents the opportunity to learn about and discuss city services," said Mayor Walsh.  "I encourage everyone to come out and enjoy our parks at these coffee hours as the warm weather approaches." The Neighborhood Coffee Hours give residents a unique opportunity to speak directly with Mayor Walsh and other city officials about needs in their neighborhoods.  Through these discussions and a suggestion box at each site, the coffee hours give the City insight on how to improve city services. Information will be available on City programs from the Boston Public Library, Boston Public Schools, Boston Police Department, and Boston Centers for Youth & Families. All participants will enjoy coffee and breakfast provided by Dunkin' Donuts and fresh fruit from Whole Foods Market.  In addition, each family in attendance will receive a flowering plant grown in the city's greenhouses as a gift from Mayor Walsh.  Residents at the event will also be eligible to win a raffle prize from Dunkin' Donuts.   All coffee hours will be held from 9:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. Dates for the full schedule of Mayor Walsh's 2016 Neighborhood Coffee Hours are as follows. Locations are weather permitting unless otherwise noted.Coffee Hours being held in conjunction with park openings are also noted: Wednesday, May 4   Doherty Playground (rain or shine)   349 Bunker Hill Street, Charlestown Thursday, May 5 Almont Park 40 Almont Street, Mattpan Tuesday, May 10      M Street/Medal of Honor Park 775 East First Street, South Boston Wednesday, May 11 Iacono Playground (rain or shine)     150 Readville Street, Hyde Park Thursday, May 12    Little Scobie Playground (with opening celebration) 36 Copeland Street, Roxbury   Tuesday, May 17      Peters Park    230 Shawmut Avenue, South End Wednesday, May 18 Adams Park 4225 Washington Street, Rosindale Friday, May 20         American Legion Playground (with opening celebration)    35 American Legion Highway, Franklin Park, Dorchester Friday, May 27                 Commonwealth Avenue Mall 1 Commonwealth Avenue, Back Bay Wednesday, June 1   Joyce Playground     80 Union Street, Brighton Thursday, June 2      LoPresti Park (with opening celebration)      33 Sumner Street, East Boston Wednesday, June 8   Christopher Columbus Park (rain or shine)   110 Atlantic Avenue, North End Thursday, June 9      Arnold Arboretum    125 The Arborway, Jamaica Plain Tuesday, June 14      Ramler Park 130 Peterborough Street, Fenway Wednesday, June 15 Lt. Edward Walsh and Firefighter Michael Kennedy Tot Lot   369 LaGrange Street, West Roxbury Thursday, June 16    Myrtle Street Playground      50 Myrtle Street, Beacon Hill Tuesday, June 21      Hemenway Playground (with opening celebration)   540 Adams Street, Dorchester Wednesday, June 22 Elliot Norton Park (with opening celebration) 295 Tremont Street, Bay Village/Chinatown For more information and updates on possible weather cancellations, please contact the Boston Parks and Recreation Department at (617) 635-4505 or online at Facebook or Twitter @bostonparksdept.

白宮將表揚10名“推動改變者” 麻州有1人

"Champions of Change” for Advancing Prevention, Treatment, and Recovery

WASHINGTON, D.C. – On Friday, April 29, the White House will recognize ten individuals from across the country as “White House Champions of Change for Advancing Prevention, Treatment, and Recovery.”

These individuals were selected by the White House for their leadership and tireless work to prevent prescription drug abuse and heroin use, improve access to treatment and support recovery.

Prescription drug abuse and heroin use have taken a heartbreaking toll on too many Americans and their families, while straining resources of law enforcement and treatment programs. More Americans now die every year from drug overdoses than they do in motor vehicle crashes. The President has made clear that addressing the opioid overdose epidemic is a priority for his Administration and has highlighted tools that are effective in reducing drug use and overdose, like evidence-based prevention programs, prescription drug monitoring, prescription drug take-back events, medication-assisted treatment and the overdose reversal drug naloxone.

The event will feature remarks by White House Senior Advisor Valerie Jarrett, Surgeon General Vivek Murthy, and Director of National Drug Control Policy Michael Botticelli. The event will also feature members of the cast and production team of the Warner Bros. Television-produced CBS comedy series Mom‎.

The Champions of Change program was created as an opportunity for the White House to feature individuals doing extraordinary things to empower and inspire members of their communities. The event will be open press and streamed live on www.whitehouse.gov/live. To learn more about the White House Champions of Change program, visit www.whitehouse.gov/champions. Follow the conversation at #WHchamps.

Anita Bradley - Cleveland, Ohio

Anita Bradley is the founder and Executive Director of the Northern Ohio Recovery Association. She has been in recovery from a substance abuse disorder for over 25 years and understands the importance and magnitude of blending personal and professional knowledge to promote the power and possibility of recovery. Anita built a Peer to Peer training program offered at a local Community College and opened the Next Step Recovery House, a residential recovery housing facility on Cleveland’s near west side. Anita also recently launched a Statewide Network for Addiction to respond to the opioid crisis and insure that the voice for recovery from substance use disorders is included in planning and policy efforts in Ohio. Anita was named winner of the 2015 Women Who Excel Entrepreneur Award, by Smart Business Magazine and is a recipient of the Joel Hernandez Community Recovery Award.

Leonard Campanello - Gloucester, Massachusetts

Leonard Campanello is the Chief of Police in Gloucester, Massachusetts. Chief Campanello has worked to end the stigma of addiction by adding law enforcement's voice to those suffering with substance use disorders. In May of 2015, in response to the growing epidemic of opioid use disorders, he announced policy change that those with substance use disorders could ask for help and treatment resources from the Gloucester Police Department by walking into the station, with or without drugs, and without being charged with a crime. The policy also provided free naloxone (an opioid overdose antidote) for anyone in need. In the 10 months since it began, the Gloucester Program has brought 425 people directly to treatment with no criminal penalty and no solicitation of information, and has reduced crime and costs associated with addiction in Gloucester and rebuilt trust between the police and the community. The policy’s success led to the creation of the Police Assisted Addiction and Recovery Initiative, which facilitates the proliferation of the Gloucester Program to over 100 communities in 22 states and partnerships with 250 treatment centers and growing.

Leslie Hayes - Española, New Mexico

Leslie Hayes, MD, works for El Centro Family Health in Espanola, NM, as a family practitioner. El Centro Family Health is a community health center with clinics located throughout northern New Mexico, a rural, underserved area. While Dr. Hayes enjoys all aspects of family medicine, her particular passion is taking care of people with opioid use disorders. She works with pregnant women and new mothers who have substance use disorders to make sure that they and their babies receive compassionate and appropriate medical care. Leslie received much of her training in substance use disorders through Project ECHO, a program that uses telecommunication to link specialists with primary care providers. Anita considers herself extremely fortunate to have been able to give back to Project ECHO, and she now provides training for other providers around the state of New Mexico in substance use disorder and use of the medication assisted treatment buprenorphine.

Tom Hedrick – New York, New York

Tom Hedrick is one of the founding members of the Partnership for Drug-Free Kids (the Partnership). Since its founding, the Partnership has focused on delivering evidence-based prevention communication messages through the media, becoming the largest single-issue public service communications program in America during a period of dramatic reductions in substance use among adolescents. Tom helped expand the program to include evidenced-based resources and support for parents and caregivers in prevention, intervention, treatment and recovery through a web-based platform and a toll-free Helpline. With Tom’s help, the Partnership is piloting a peer support program to recruit and train experienced parents and caregivers to coach other parents and caregivers who have discovered that their kids have a substance use disorder. The coaching has been integrated with the online resources and the Helpline into a national Parent Support Network.

Andre Johnson – Detroit, Michigan

Andre Johnson is the founder, President and CEO of the Detroit Recovery Project (DRP), a recovery community organization, providing peer-led, peer-run, and peer-driven services in Detroit. Andre has been in long-term recovery from a substance use disorder for nearly 28 years. Over the past ten years, Andre has secured over $15 million dollars in federal, county, state, and local grants for DRP to provide quality prevention, treatment, and recovery services. Andre was appointed by the US Secretary of Health & Human Services to serve on the Substance Abuse Mental Health Service Administration/Center for Substance Abuse Treatment National Advisory Council. He also sits on the board of the College for Behavioral Health Leadership. 

Shawn Lang – Hartford, Connecticut

Shawn M. Lang is the Deputy Director of AIDS Connecticut (ACT). Shawn has been with ACT since 1991, where she coordinates HIV/AIDS public policy activities on the state and federal levels, including chairing the AIDS LIFE Campaign, Connecticut’s AIDS policy group. Shawn also oversees ACT’s care and treatment programs, prevention programs, member services, and provides a variety of trainings and presentations.  She is on the board of the National AIDS Housing Coalition, the Community Advisory Board of the Center for Interdisciplinary Research on AIDS, and was recently appointed to the Connecticut Alcohol and Drug Policy Council. Since 2013, Shawn has chaired Connecticut’s Statewide Opiate Overdose Prevention Workgroup, which has engaged in an extensive advocacy campaign to increase awareness about and access to Naloxone, a lifesaving medication that reverses opioid overdoses.  She has been a longstanding activist on issues impacting battered women, LGBT communities, homelessness and HIV/AIDS.  She lives in Hartford with her 18 year old son.

Julio Medina – Bronx, New York

Julio Medina is the founder and Executive Director of Exodus Transitional Community, a reentry program in East Harlem, Newburgh, Poughkeepsie and Albany, New York. Julio spent twelve years in prison on drugs charges in the 1980s and 90s. As the Founder and Executive Director of Exodus Transitional Community, Julio addresses the widespread struggle of substance use disorders, often linked to incarceration and recidivism. Under Julio’s leadership, Exodus Transitional Community employs a holistic approach to substance use disorders with the aim of tackling all of the stages of addiction, including prevention, treatment, recovery and relapse. Julio also works to promote effective local, state and federal policies aimed at substance use disorders, while increasing access to services that support men, women and their families.  Most recently, Julio was appointed by New York Governor Cuomo to serve on the Community Reentry and Reintegration Council, and by New York City Mayor De Blasio to serve on the Alternatives to Incarceration Council.

Justin Phillips – Indianapolis, Indiana

Justin Phillips, MA is the Founder and Executive Director of Overdose Lifeline, Inc., an Indiana non-profit dedicated to reducing the stigma of addiction and preventing deaths resulting from opioid overdose. Justin started the nonprofit in 2014, following the loss of her 20-year old son Aaron to a heroin overdose. Overdose Lifeline established a support network for families impacted by opioid use disorders and helps to purchase naloxone, an opioid reversal drug, for first-responders in the Indianapolis area. Justin also worked with Indiana legislators on a bill known as Aaron’s Law to expand access to naloxone prescriptions for others beyond first responders. Justin’s advocacy efforts were realized with the enactment of Aaron’s Law in April of 2015, making it legal for naloxone to be made available in pharmacies across Indiana without a physician’s prescription. Overdose Lifeline has distributed over 300 naloxone overdose reversal kits to families and individuals and developed a one of a kind prevention education program for the state of Indiana.

Justin Luke Riley – Denver, Colorado

Justin Luke Riley serves as president and CEO of Young People in Recovery (YPR), a national grassroots organization focused on peer-to-peer services for young people in, or seeking, recovery from substance use disorder. Riley is 28 years-old and has been in long-term recovery from a substance use disorder since 2007. Under Justin’s leadership, YPR aims to improve access to treatment educational resources, employment opportunities and housing that sustains young people in their recovery. With over 100 chapters nationwide, YPR empowers young people to get involved in their communities by providing them with the tools and support that will allow them to take charge of their futures. Justin graduated cum laude from the Honors & Leadership Program at the University of Colorado at Denver in 2013 and is currently seeking his Executive MBA at the University Colorado. He is a former organizational development consultant and a youth and community engagement pastor in Denver; former secretary of the board of Faces & Voices of Recovery in Washington, DC; and past president of the board of Advocates for Recovery in Denver.

Barbara Theodosiou – Davie, Florida

Barbara Theodosiou, upon learning that two of her sons had substance use disorders, founded The Addict’s Mom, a forum for mothers who were suffering the adversities that accompany addiction in a loved one. The Addict’s Mom offers both online and in-person support, education, resources and the opportunity for members to “Share Without Shame” their triumphs and tragedies as they hope that their loved one achieve recovery. Under Barbara’s leadership, The Addict’s Mom has reached 70,000 members who educate, advocate, and collaborate with lawmakers, community leaders and experts in the field.

BOSTON PUBLIC LIBRARY CELEBRATES MONEY SMART WEEK APRIL 23-30

BOSTON PUBLIC LIBRARY CELEBRATES MONEY SMART WEEK APRIL 23-30

Free programs offered at Central Library in Copley Square, Codman Square Branch

BOSTON – April 21, 2016 – Boston Public Library celebrates Money Smart Week April 23-30, a national initiative designed to help consumers better manage their personal finances. Adult programming at the Central Library in Copley Square is presented by the BPL’s Kirstein Business Library; please register for these by contacting 617.859.2142 or businessref@bpl.org.

“Basic financial literacy is an essential life skill that everyone needs, for everyday planning like managing your paycheck or a weekly budget, to decisions regarding buying a first home, starting a small business, or planning for retirement,” said David Leonard, Interim President of the Boston Public Library. “BPL is committed to providing resources that can make a difference in our users’ lives, helping everyone be prepared to take advantage of opportunities that come their way.”

Programs:

·         Tinker Tots: On Tuesday, April 26, at 10:30 a.m. in the Children’s Library at the Central Library in Copley Square, children ages 3 to 5 will hear stories and sing songs about math and money. Following story time, children and caregivers will engage in stations that encourage them to explore concepts around money, math, and counting.

·         Investing Basics: On Tuesday, April 26, at 6 p.m. in the Commonwealth Salon at the Central Library in Copley Square, Sean Fullerton and Jerry Holly of the Boston Securities Analyst Society explain how to develop a comprehensive investment plan and construct a diversified portfolio. Concepts include detailed budgeting, identifying investment goals and objectives, basic types of investments (cash, bonds, equities) and the implementation of an investment plan. A question and answer session follows.

·         Home Buying: On Wednesday, April 27, at 2 p.m. in the Children’s Library at the Central Library in Copley Square, discover resources and useful websites to help you understand the home buying process.

·         Story and Craft: On Wednesday, April 27, at 3:30 p.m. in the Children’s Library at the Central Library in Copley Square, youth will listen to stories about counting and create a craft to help them save their own money.

·         Planning for Retirement: On Thursday, April 28, at 6 p.m. in the Commonwealth Salon at the Central Library in Copley Square, join Certified Financial Planner Jeanne Gibson Sullivan to learn about what you need to know to prepare for retirement. She will cover how much you need to have saved, where to put your savings/investments before retirement, which assets to tap first, when to take Social Security, and strategies for managing investments.

·         Financial Education Presentation: Get “money smart” on Thursday, April 28, at 6:30 p.m. at the Codman Square Branch at 690 Washington Street in Dorchester. The presentation features Century Bank's Saida Idouahmane, Branch Manager, and Fatima Goncalves, Assistant Branch Manager.

·         Grocery Stories: On Friday, April 29, at 3:30 p.m. in the Children’s Library at the Central Library in Copley Square, youth will listen to stories about buying groceries for the home and engage in a pretend shopping expedition.

Baker-Polito Administration Awards Drinking Water Supply Protection Grants

Baker-Polito Administration Awards Drinking Water Supply Protection Grants

$1.1 Million Awarded to Five Massachusetts Water Suppliers

BOSTON – April 21, 2016 – The Baker-Polito Administration today awarded more than $1.1 million in grants to five Massachusetts water suppliers through the Drinking Water Supply Protection (DWSP) Grant Program.  The funding, announced during Earth Week, will enable water suppliers to protect existing or new wells, as well as surface drinking water supply systems, such as reservoirs.

“Clean drinking water is vital to the health of all Massachusetts residents, and these grants help protect land around the wells and reservoirs that provide water to thousands of people, ensuring safe, healthy water resources for generations to come,” said Governor Charlie Baker.

“The Baker-Polito Administration is pleased to partner with Municipalities and Water Districts to jointly fund initiatives which will ensure the protection of public water supplies for Massachusetts residents,” said Lieutenant Governor Karyn Polito.

The Drinking Water Supply Protection (DWSP) Grant Program, overseen by the Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs, has provided grants to municipal and public water systems and fire districts for the acquisition of land in fee, a conservation restriction, or a watershed preservation restriction for water supply protection and land conservation purposes since 2004. Land acquired must be located in existing Department of Environmental Protection-approved drinking water supply areas, or in estimated protection areas for new sources, or in an area identified through an appropriate planning process as suitable for groundwater recharge to an aquifer. 

“The Drinking Water Supply Protection Grant Program ensures that Massachusetts residents have access to safe, clean drinking water, said Energy and Environmental Affairs Secretary Matthew Beaton. “The grants awarded by the Baker-Polito Administration will enable municipalities to permanently protect their water drinking sources.”

The Fiscal Year 2016 DWSP grant awards are:

·         Amherst Department of Public Works - $175,625 to preserve 141 acres of land that  contain Amethyst Brook,  which is located approximately 150 feet from the Hills Reservoir (part of Amherst’s Pelham Reservoirs that provide almost a quarter of Amherst’s drinking water).

·         Centerville-Osterville-Marstons Mills Fire District - $197,000 to protect 11 acres of land to help create a wildlife corridor and protect the municipal water supply for 12,500 households.

·         Marshfield Department of Public Works – $274,125 to protect almost six acres of land to prevent the contamination of the Furnace Brook Wells. This project also consists of open fields, forest, and wetlands that connect to other protected parcels and contain Natural Heritage and Endangered Species Program-mapped habitat of rare wildlife. 

·         Mattapoisett Water and Sewer Department – $ 327,063 to protect 114 acres of land within the Mattapoisett River watershed, which is a drinking water supply source for five surrounding municipalities.

·         Westfield Water Resource Department –$203,000 to acquire 80 acres of watershed land located on high ground between two major tributaries that feed the Granville Reservoir.

“I am quite pleased with the Administration’s decision to award the Mattapoisett Water and Sewer Department a Drinking Water Supply Protection Grant,” said State Representative William Straus (D-Mattapoisett). “This important grant program is vital to ensuring that all residents of the Commonwealth have clean and safe drinking water for generations to come.”  

“This grant will help Amherst preserve and protect the area around Amethyst Brook and the Hills Reservoir, which supplies us with fresh, clean drinking water,” said Senate President Stan Rosenberg (D-Amherst). “I thank the Administration, and in particular Secretary Beaton, for their continued recognition of the importance of conservation and watershed protection.”

“The Mattapoisett River watershed provides drinking water for tens of thousands of local residents across five South Coast communities,” said State Senator Mark Montigny (D-New Bedford). “These funds will protect adjoining lands of this vital natural resource, and I would like to thank Governor Baker and Secretary Beaton for their commitment to ensuring access to clean, safe water supplies.”

“I am so pleased Marshfield won this competitive grant to enhance protections for our local water supply,” said State Representative James Cantwell (D-Marshfield). “I commend local officials, like Marshfield DPW Director Tom Reynolds and Karen O’Donnell from the Open Space Committee, for submitting an outstanding proposal. Along with protecting the local water supply, this grant will conserve open space critical to the character of our town and the well-being of rare wildlife. I want to thank Governor Baker and Secretary Beaton for their continued attention to public health and water quality.”

Baker Administration, Higher Education Leaders Announce NewCommonwealth Commitment Plan to Increase Affordability, Drive Degree Completion

Baker Administration, Higher Education Leaders Announce NewCommonwealth Commitment Plan to Increase Affordability, Drive Degree Completion

New “2+2” Plan Based on Transfer from Community College to UMass or State U’s Will Offer Per-Semester Rebates, Freeze Costs for Qualifying Students

LOWELL – Governor Charlie Baker and Lieutenant Governor Karyn Polito joined public higher education leaders today to announce the Commonwealth Commitment, an innovative college affordability and completion plan to help more students achieve the dream of a college degree.

The Commonwealth Commitment commits every public campus to providing 10% rebates at the end of each successfully completed semester to qualifying undergraduate students, in addition to the standard MassTransfer tuition waiver received upon entering a four-year institution from a Community College. Students who meet the program requirements will, depending on the transfer pathway they choose, be able to realize an average savings of $5,090 off the cost of a baccalaureate degree.

This plan is the first agreement of its kind in the nation and was signed by University of Massachusetts President Marty Meehan, Worcester State University President Barry Maloney and Middlesex Community College President James Mabry, representing the three segments of the public higher education system, at a ceremony held this morning at Middlesex Community College.

As part of the Commonwealth Commitment's goal to increase cost savings and predictability, tuition and mandatory fees will be frozen for program participants as of the date they enter the program.  Students will begin their studies at one of the state's 15 community colleges, enrolling in one of 24 Commonwealth Commitment/ Mass Transfer Pathways programs that will roll out in fall 2016 (14 programs) and fall 2017 (10 additional programs). They must attend full-time, and must maintain a cumulative GPA of 3.0. After earning an associate's degree in two and a half years or less, students will transfer to a state university or UMass campus to earn a baccalaureate degree.

  

“This program was designed to decrease the cost of a college degree and accelerate on-time completion for students across the Commonwealth, creating more opportunities and helping more people get into the workforce with the skills they need,” said Governor Charlie Baker. “The Commonwealth Commitment will make it even easier for students to go to school full-time and begin their careers with less debt and we are pleased that our higher education officials have worked collaboratively to make this program a reality.”

“The Commonwealth Commitment is a win-win for students, employers, and our public higher education campuses,” said Lieutenant Governor Karyn Polito. “Our hope is that through programs like the Commonwealth Commitment,  not only will students get the benefit of a lower cost degree, but also be able to fill more of the high-demand job of the future, including in STEM.”

“The Commonwealth Commitment is an important plan which we believe will help move the needle on our administration’s two overarching education objectives: to close the achievement gap and strengthen the global competitiveness of Massachusetts’ workforce and economy,” said Education Secretary Jim Peyser. “I thank the leaders of the Department of Higher Education, UMass, and State Colleges and universities for their hard work in reaching this agreement and for their commitment to putting students first.”

“The signing of this agreement represents a new day for our state system of public colleges and universities,” said Carlos E. Santiago, Commissioner of Higher Education. “It was not easy or simple to hammer out an agreement among 28 undergraduate institutions with different missions and programs, but I was extremely proud to see how presidents, provosts, faculty and staff worked together with a sense of common purpose to get this done. What unites us is a dedication to students and to the Commonwealth, a realization that when it comes to preparing the state's future citizenry and workforce, our public institutions need to lead.”

“Community college students seeking pathways to an affordable, high-quality, four-year degree will now be able to look to the Commonwealth Commitment for critical support – and UMass is proud to be part of this innovative effort,” said UMass President Marty Meehan. “This program advances public higher education’s core beliefs and will help to transform lives and strengthen our future. We look forward to welcoming the students who take advantage of this creative initiative to our campuses.”

"The Commonwealth Commitment unites the Massachusetts public higher education sector in an energized drive to promote access and success for our diverse communities as we work together to build an educated workforce that will drive the Commonwealth's high-tech community in the 21st Century.  Community colleges are proud to play a pivotal role in this strategy," said Middlesex Community College President Dr. James Mabry.

"When we talk about a 'best value' college experience, it doesn't get any better than this,” said Worcester State University President Barry Maloney. “Those who transfer into state universities under this program will see small classes taught largely by full-time, Ph.D. faculty members who put their students first. The state university degree prepares them well, either for careers or graduate school."

At the end of every successfully completed semester, students will earn a 10% rebate on tuition and fees, payable in the form of a check, or may opt to receive a voucher to use for books or other education-related expenses. The program does not discount room and board, although students may choose to use their Commonwealth Commitment savings or other resources to offset some of those costs. Students' rebates or vouchers will be calculated based on the total cost of tuition and mandatory fees at the institutions they choose to attend. Additionally, students who enroll in free or reduced cost dual enrollment programs, taking college courses while still in high school, may be able to apply the credits they earn toward theirCommonwealth Commitment degrees, thus reducing costs even further.

Further information is available at www.Mass.edu/MAComCom. 

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波士頓同源會 Surging Waves Symposium 4/30

C.A.C.A. Boston is hosting 2 events on 4/29 & 4/30.
1. Arthur Talk and Book Signing: Forbidden Citizens by Martin Gold @ Tufts University Behrakis Auditorium, Jaharis Building
2. Surging Waves Symposium @ Harvard University Fairbank Center 
Please see flyers below.
Please join us and share our events with all your friends !!

 

Baker-Polito Administration Expands Greening the Gateway Cities Tree Planting Program

Baker-Polito Administration Expands Greening the Gateway Cities Tree Planting Program

New Communities Include Brockton, Haverhill, Lawrence, Lynn, Leominster, New Bedford, Pittsfield and Quincy

HAVERHILL – April 20, 2016 – Today, at an Earth Week tree planting ceremony at Riverside Park in Haverhill, Energy and Environmental Affairs (EEA) Secretary Matthew Beaton and Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR) Commissioner Leo Roy announced the expansion of the Greening the Gateway Cities Program (GGCP) to include the cities of Brockton, Haverhill, Lawrence, Lynn, Leominster, New Bedford, Pittsfield and Quincy. The program, which targets the Commonwealth’s 26 Gateway Cities, is designed to utilize tree plantings as a way to reduce energy use in urban neighborhoods by lowering heating and cooling costs for residents and businesses.

“The Greening the Gateway Cities Program serves as an excellent example of a strong partnership between state government, local municipalities, and dedicated organizations working together to ultimately benefit generations of people,” said Governor Charlie Baker.

To support the GGCP, the state will invest over $12 million in energy efficiency and state capital funds over a three year time span to plant 20,000 trees averaging six feet in height within the eight gateway cities.  The program will not only produce energy savings, but will also benefit the local economy and create jobs by hiring foresters and tree planting crews from the cities where planting takes place. The GGCP is expected to yield more than twice the investment made by the Administration as the trees mature.

“By adding the cities of Brockton, Haverhill, Lawrence, Leominster, Lynn, New Bedford, Pittsfield, and Quincy into the Greening the Gateway Cities Program, our Administration continues to invest in the future of these cities to further enhance our environmental resources, which will benefit us all on a local and global scale,” said Lieutenant Governor Karyn Polito.

“With the expansion of the Greening the Gateway Cities Program, communities will enjoy lower energy consumption, cleaner air, reduced noise, and the beautification of neighborhoods,” said Energy and Environmental Affairs Secretary Matthew Beaton. “Tree planting is also a great energy efficiency tool to boost the local economy with all aspects of the program occurring in the region from jobs at local nurseries to jobs within the neighborhoods planting trees.”

With a defined goal to increase the urban tree canopy to 5-10 percent in select neighborhoods in each Gateway City, the program is expected to reduce heating and cooling costs by approximately $230 a year for an average household, once the trees reach maturity. In less than two years, the program has planted 3,700 trees streets in Chelsea, Revere, Fall River, Chicopee and Holyoke.  Planting will continue in those cities in addition to the new cities being added this spring. Residents who sign-up for the GGCP will be provided planted trees at no cost as long as they commit to water the trees for two summers. 

“The Department of Energy Resources (DOER) is proud to work with municipalities to find opportunities to save energy and reduce costs,” said DOER Commissioner Judith Judson. “Expanding the Greening the Gateway Cities Program will strengthen these efforts.”

Under the program, DCR is spearheading the tree planting efforts in Brockton, Haverhill, Leominster, Lynn, and Pittsfield. The DCR, working in partnership with local municipalities and organizations in each city, has developed a successful approach to planting the appropriate number of trees required to have a long lasting energy impact by focusing on high-density urban neighborhoods.

“The Department of Conservation and Recreation is proud to support this worthwhile program by partnering with the cities of Brockton, Haverhill, Lawrence, Leominster, Lynn, New Bedford, Pittsfield, and Quincy,”said DCR Commissioner Leo Roy. “Programs, such as the Greening the Gateway Cities Program, serve as a wonderful example of the Baker-Polito Administration’s dedication to developing the necessary tools needed to effectively implement an urban forestry plan. Planting trees is, after all, the best thing that we can do to improve the environment.”

Aimed at improving the tree canopy found in the Commonwealth’s Gateway Cities, the program’s benefits are not isolated to energy efficiency. By planting trees, communities will see a reduction in storm water runoff, higher air quality, an increase in property values and tax receipts, and a safer, healthier environment for residents. For example, in Chelsea, over 1,200 trees have been planted so far with over 5,000 residents living within 50 feet of these trees – the average canopy size of the trees when mature in 20-30 years.

“Pittsfield is a city in the middle of a beautiful rural region,” said Senator Benjamin Downing (D – Pittsfield). “Preserving green space and investing in making the city greener are perfectly in line with the city's values and vision.”

“The Greening the Gateways Cities project is a perfect example of how the Commonwealth partners with cities, and I'm thrilled to see Pittsfield be part of this year's award,” said State Representative Tricia Farley-Bouvier (D-Pittsfield). “Planting trees in the WestSide and Morningside Neighborhoods brings beauty, improves quality of life, cools our city and helps absorb carbon, making it a win all around.”

“I am grateful to Secretary Beaton for selecting Pittsfield to participate in the Greening the Gateway Cities program,” said State Representative Paul Mark (D-Peru). “As an urban island in rural Berkshire County, Pittsfield is always seeking ways to balance its natural beauty with the demands of a city environment.  This program will help us enhance that beauty and make our city greener than ever.”

“Thank you to Governor Baker and Secretary Beaton, Brockton is grateful for the opportunity to provide a better living environment for the city of champions,” said State Senator Michael Brady (D-Brockton). “My hope is that the redistribution of plants and trees will provide a healthier level of air quality and emphasize a welcoming environment for those who wish to come out with their families and enjoy the parks and playgrounds in the city of Brockton.”

“Brockton is an urban, industrial city that cares a great deal about the environment and its effect on our health,” said State Representative Michelle DuBois (D-Brockton). “Brockton has one of the highest asthma hospitalization rates for children in the state, due to the poor quality of air we breathe. This tree grant will improve the City's physical appearance by planting trees but will also help clean the air we breathe which is critical to all who live in the City of Champions.”

“Brockton will greatly benefit from the Greening the Gateway Cities Tree Planting Program,” said State Representative Claire Cronin (D-Easton). “The planting of new trees will add to the aesthetic of Brockton, and is a positive step towards reducing pollution and improving air quality in our city. In addition, our city will be more visually appealing for our residents and will look more attractive to outside investors.”

“It's wonderful that Brockton has this opportunity to plant more public trees,” said State Representative Gerard Cassidy (D-Brockton). “Brockton has long been a leader in recognizing the importance of public green spaces, as evidenced by the work of D.W. Field who provided the citizens of Brockton with a superb park, designed by Frederick Olmsted and named in Mr. Field's honor. We all know the crucial benefits that trees provide to the health and beauty of our city.”

Baker-Polito Administration Awards Gateway Cities Park Grants

Baker-Polito Administration Awards Gateway Cities Park Grants

Projects in Attleboro, Fitchburg and Leominster, Haverhill, and Methuen to Receive Funding

HAVERHILL – April 20, 2016 – At an Earth Week tree planting ceremony in Haverhill’s Riverside Park, Energy and Environmental Affairs (EEA) Secretary Matthew Beaton today announced grants totaling $5.3 million to help the cities of Attleboro, Fitchburg, Haverhill, Leominster and Methuen design and build four park and trail projects.  

“These grants provide paths for people to commute and exercise and parks for people to enjoy close to home for generations to come,” said Governor Charlie Baker. “Opportunities for outdoor recreation improve quality of life and respect for our environment, so our administration is working with municipalities and other partners across the Commonwealth to allow all Massachusetts residents access to the beautiful outdoors.”

“Public parks are essential to the health and economic well-being of urban areas, but cities often lack the resources to plan and develop them,” said Lieutenant Governor Karyn Polito. “Through this program, we are able to invest in important park projects and help municipalities provide outdoor spaces for their citizens.”

The grants, funded through the Environmental Bond Bill, are awarded through EEA’s Gateway City Parks Program. The program funds the creation or restoration of significant urban parks and trails in the 26 Gateway Cities, often projects that would otherwise be difficult to build.  Priority is given to projects that support broader urban revitalization efforts; are ineligible for other funding sources; address critical park infrastructure needs; have strong support from city leaders; engage local businesses, neighbors and others in park financing, programming and stewardship; or are accessible to environmental justice populations.

“This funding was awarded to projects that not only provide recreational opportunity, but also contribute to the overall revitalization of these communities,” said Energy and Environmental Affairs Secretary Matthew Beaton. “The Baker-Polito Administration is dedicated to providing access to open space to all Commonwealth residents, regardless of zip code.”

City of Attleboro - Ten Mile Riverwalk ($1.1 million)

The City of Attleboro will utilize this grant and Community Development Block Grant funding to extend the Ten Mile Riverwalk from Wall Street to County Street.  This section will include a bridge and a section of boardwalk, made necessary by a narrow and steeply sloped site.  Improvements related to the Riverwalk include signage, lighting, state of the art “green” stormwater features, pervious pavement, fencing, bike racks and full handicap accessibility.  Upon completion, the City will enjoy a continuous path from Olive Street through Balfour Park, and onward along the Ten Mile River. The design, completed by the Horsley Witten Group, was funded by a prior Gateway City Parks Grant.

Cities of Fitchburg & Leominster – Twin Cities Rail Trail ($2.4 million)

This grant will be used for designing, engineering and permitting the 4.5 mile trail connection project from Fitchburg Center to Leominster Center.  The trail will run along the former Fitchburg Secondary rail line between downtown Leominster in the south and the MBTA station in downtown Fitchburg.  Thus, it enables commute travel in addition to recreational use.  The trail will be fully accessible and provide for convenient walking and biking access along its entire route. 

City of Haverhill – Riverside Park ($180,000)

This grant will be matched by $180,000 from the City of Haverhill for the renovation and reconstruction of Riverside Park. Grant and city funds will be used to develop, widen and improve the multi-use trail network throughout the Park and along the Merrimack River bank to encourage more bicycling and walking around the park including the addition of bike racks, signage and striping. The grant will also improve Americans with Disabilities Act access to the park, especially at the eastern entryway by the shopping plaza, and provide better designation and spaces for handicapped parking, Additionally, funding from the grant will be used to add exercise stations geared toward older adults and senior citizens, as well as plant up to 150 additional trees in the park to provide greater shade, especially along the walking/biking paths.

City of Methuen – Methuen Rail Trail ($1.65 million)

This grant provides funding for design and construction documents for the Methuen Rail Trail, as well as money to pave and add related amenities to this multi-use path from the Manchester Street Park in Lawrence at the city line through downtown Methuen to the border with Salem, New Hampshire. With this grant, the City of Methuen will be able to hire a firm to design and permit the project, as well as a construction contractor, with the intent to complete construction by July 1, 2017.   This trail, 2.4 miles in length with only one at-grade crossing, will run along the former Manchester and Lawrence Branch of the Boston and Maine Railroad.  The surface is presently mostly gravel or crushed stone, and this grant will enable the surface to be paved. 

“This grant will improve and enhance Riverside Park by creating greater accessibility and usability for everyone,” said State Representative Brian S. Dempsey (D-Haverhill).  “It’s important that we continue to provide our residents with open space and opportunities for healthy living by investing in our parks and green space.”

“This funding through the state Gateway City Parks Program will result in improved recreational opportunities in Haverhill and Methuen by investing in the parks and trails right here in the Merrimack Valley,” said State Senator Kathleen O’Connor Ives (D-Newburyport).

“This investment in Methuen by the Commonwealth will connect the rail trail from Lawrence, North to Concord NH and then north west to the NH / Vermont border,” said State Representative Linda Dean Campbell (D-Methuen). “Here in the Merrimack Valley it will spur economic development in downtown Methuen and the region.  It will also provide local residents with a wonderful way to enjoy the outdoors.”

“The projects made possible through these grants not only contribute to the growing beauty and overall enrichment of our Commonwealth, but also serve to increase the livelihood and health of our gateway cities by investing in outdoor spaces that truly benefit everyone in those communities,” said State Representative Lenny Mirra (R-West Newbury). “As both a legislator and an avid cyclist, I am thrilled on two fronts about today’s announcement.”

“I stand with my fellow colleagues in the Methuen and Haverhill legislative delegations in celebrating the announcement of these important Gateway Cities Park Grants,” said State Representative Diana DiZoglio (D-Methuen). “These funds will be immensely helpful in supporting construction efforts at both the Methuen Rail Trail and Riverside Park.”

“I am very pleased that the City of Attleboro has received funding to help them extend and improve the Ten Mile Riverwalk,” said State Senator Richard J. Ross (R-Wrentham). “Prioritizing our recreational areas and public parks is essential for the well-being of our residents as well as the economic revitalization of our communities. I am grateful that the Baker-Polito Administration is working with our municipalities to ensure that the people of the Commonwealth can enjoy the beauty of the great outdoors right in their own backyard.”

“The Gateway Cities Park Grant and the Community Development Block Grant funding are extremely beneficial to the Attleboro community and the region,” said State Senator James E. Timilty (D-Walpole). “Expanding handicap accessibility beyond the fully ADA compliant Balfour Riverwalk Park will further revitalize the city’s downtown while preserving Attleboro’s natural history.”

“I am so thrilled that the citizens of Attleboro will be able to enjoy these wonderful beautification improvements of the Ten Mile Riverwalk,” said State Representative Elizabeth Poirier (R-North Attleboro). “What a great opportunity for individuals and families to explore and enjoy the outdoors in an effort to improve their quality of life as well as experiencing positive health benefits.”

“This grant comes at a critical time for an important part of the Attleboro Redevelopment plans,” said State Representative Paul Heroux (D-Attleboro). “I am thankful to the Executive Office of Energy & Environmental Affairs for selecting Attleboro, and to my colleagues in the House and Senate for making this money available to Gateway communities.”

“The City of Attleboro is elated by this grant disbursement,” said Attleboro Mayor Kevin Dumas. “The ‘10 Mile Riverwalk Project’ is complementary to our vast redevelopment efforts in our Intermodal Transit Oriented Development District that also includes the creation of Riverfront Drive and Park. The ‘10 Mile Riverwalk Project’ will connect this newly created area along the banks of the river, extending up to the existing Balfour Riverwalk. This will complete another section of our own Emerald Necklace in the heart of Downtown Attleboro. This ‘10 Mile Riverwalk Project’ will entail a bridge and boardwalk that will create a continuous urban walking and bicycle trail, championing green space and aquatic preservation with a harmonious balance of growth and development.”

“I want to thank Governor Baker, Lieutenant Governor Polito, Secretary Beaton and our legislative delegation for their continued commitment to Haverhill and for giving us the ability to enhance our parks and recreation areas for the betterment of our community,” said Haverhill Mayor James J. Fiorentini. “The additional tree plantings and exercise equipment for our children and adults will add tremendous value to our parks and help our community enjoy family time while maintaining a healthy lifestyle.”

“As the Mayor of Leominster for 22 years, we have continually pursued the Twin City Rail Trail (TRCT),”said Leominster Mayor Dean Mazzarella. “The cities of Fitchburg and Leominster have worked together on this for a very long time to overcome many obstacles.  The TCRT will provide people and families a chance to get more exercise as well as connecting people with local businesses. To see it happening after all these years is the result of positivity and persistent team work through the Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs with many other agencies in our efforts to provide connectivity in all areas in and around Leominster.”

“This is wonderful news,” said Fitchburg Mayor Stephen L. DiNatale. “The Twin Cities Rail Trail will provide a much needed recreation amenity to residents of Fitchburg and the entire region. This trail is the first dedicated safe means of access for pedestrians and bicyclist to and from the two cities and will also link a network of interconnected trails along the Nashua River.  The trail will eventually connect to both cities’ inter-modal transportation facilities and spur economic activity along its entire 4.2 mile length.” 

“The City of Methuen is extremely grateful to our leaders at the state level for recognizing the importance of the Rail Trail Project in the city and providing this funding,” said Methuen Mayor Stephen N. Zanni.  “We can now move forward with exciting plans for the development of the Rail Trail as a catalyst for additional investment in our downtown.”