As the first year of the legislative session comes to a close, Sen. Brendan Crighton, co-chair of the Joint Committee on Transportation, has been speaking to constituents, stakeholders, and advocates about the future of transportation in the Commonwealth.
Crighton and Rep. Jim Arciero, Committee co-chair, were invited to close out the “Transportation First” Speaker Series hosted by the Greater Boston Chamber of Commerce on Nov. 20.
The two shared details about some of the major transportation initiatives before the Legislature, such as investments in the Fiscal Year 2026 budget, the impact of the Fair Share revenues, and how to achieve long-term financing goals. They also previewed top funding priorities heading into the next year, including regional equity in funding and policy measures, and advancing capital projects that improve our bus facilities, commuter rail, ferry services, and other transportation systems.
Crighton also highlighted some of the specific investments made to support the MBTA, including $20 million for the low-income eligible reduced fare program, $40 million for infrastructure upgrades, and $175 million in workforce and safety expenses.
On Dec. 9, Crighton again joined his co-chair for a Legislative Panel hosted by State House News Service and MASSterList, speaking on crucial funding needs to improve our roads, bridges, and sidewalks, as well as considering different transportation revenue sources to ensure that Massachusetts continues to be a state where residents can thrive.
At this “Transit Next” panel, he spoke about the work he has done as an appointee of the Micromobility Commission, which will issue a report early next year on how to develop smart and responsible legislation to regulate e-bikes, scooters, and similar devices. Crighton also emphasized the value of rail electrification and policies that would benefit riders across the Commonwealth, particularly those in the Environmental Justice Corridor.
Crighton was also featured as a guest on the policy and politics podcast “The Horse Race,” hosted by Jennifer Smith, a reporter for Commonwealth Beacon, and Steve Koczela, president of the MassINC Polling Group. In this conversation, he discussed the critical importance of continuing to rebuild trust with MBTA riders, increasing service frequency, and noted the progress that has been made to regain ridership. Nodding to his previous experience as co-chair of the Joint Committee on Housing, Crighton also shared insights on how the current housing crisis in Massachusetts is interconnected with the need to modernize our transportation infrastructure.
“Our collaboration with the Healey-Driscoll Administration has resulted in historic levels of investments in our transportation systems,” Crighton said. “Now is the time to build on that momentum and continue to champion the policies necessary to move the Commonwealth forward. We are excited to roll up our sleeves and head into 2026 putting in the work to create meaningful solutions and transformative investments that benefit residents across the Commonwealth.”
As the second year of the legislative session is set to begin on Jan. 1, Crighton remains a staunch advocate of ensuring that all residents of the Commonwealth are able to safely and affordably travel by train, bus, ferry, or car. Knowing there is more work to be done, he advocates for substantial policies and funding opportunities with the primary goal of continuing to improve competitiveness and affordability in Massachusetts.
