Peabody receives road repair funding

PEABODY – Speculation over state aid making its way to Peabody can now be put to rest. Representative Joyce Spiliotis announced Wednesday that nearly $1 million will be awarded to the Leather City for making much needed road and bridge repairs and reconstruction.A total of $945,417 in Chapter 90 funding is being made available through the 2008 Transportation Bond Bill. Communities are selected to receive funds based on a formula which looks into road miles, population and employment.”These funds will be put to good use,” said Spiliotis. “And, after a very tough winter, there’s an abundance of work.”The Chapter 90 program was put into action in 1973 when the Public Works Commission voted to entitle municipalities to reimbursement of documented expenses on approved projects. Guidelines include projects that create or extend the life of roads, bridges and sidewalks. Landscaping, tree planting, roadside drainage, street lighting and traffic controls are also examples of such approved projects.Spiliotis played an integral role in the process as a member of the Joint Committee on Bonding, Capital Expenditures and State Assets in 2008.”Improving the quality of transportation in Peabody is really a quality of life issue,” she said. “This is really good news.”