LYNNFIELD — A more than $11 billion transportation infrastructure and climate bond bill passed by the State Legislature early Monday provides $3 million in funding for transportation projects in the town, though officials cautioned that changes will take time to materialize.
The funding would be split between two projects, with $2 million going toward the Summer Street restoration project, and $1 million going to an environmental study and stormwater plan for Pillings Pond, said Sen. Brendan Crighton (D – Lynn) and House Minority Leader Bradley H. Jones Jr. (R – North Reading) in a joint statement.
The bill now awaits Gov. Charlie Baker’s signature before becoming law. The earmarked funds represent preliminary approvals and because the projects would be supported by bond appropriations, not cash, they must still be worked under the state’s annual borrowing cap and will “take some time to come to fruition,” according to the statement.
“While this is only the start of what will likely be a lengthy, multi-year approval process, the inclusion of these projects in the bill helps to highlight some of Lynnfield’s most critical transportation and environmental needs,” Jones said in the statement.
The Summer Street project will include the installation of bike lanes as well as ADA-compliant sidewalks, ramps, and crossings. At Pillings Pond, in addition to the study and stormwater plan, funds would be used for the purchase and installation of upgraded catch basins in roadways around the pond to trap pollutants and sedimentation.
“I am pleased that we were able to support earmarks for these important Lynnfield-specific projects in this bond bill,” Crighton said. “I appreciate Rep. Jones’ continued partnership in addressing the town’s crucial transportation needs.”
Charlie McKenna can be reached at [email protected].
