Last Wednesday, July 8th, the Massachusetts House of Representatives passed a $561 million bond bill (H5562) that strengthens key innovation sectors, supports small businesses, expands housing opportunities, and positions the Commonwealth for long-term economic growth and competitiveness.
Included in the bill is $1,050,000 in funding for the City of Lowell, the result of amendments filed by 18th Middlesex State Representative Tara T. Hong (D-Lowell).
“This legislation is about investing in the future of Massachusetts while delivering meaningful results for communities like Lowell,” said Representative Hong. “I am proud to have secured more than $1 million in local funding that will improve public transportation, make our streets safer and more accessible, and expand emergency shelter capacity for those who need it most. Along with these local investments, this bill also strengthens our economy by supporting housing production, workforce development, small businesses, and new safety standards that will benefit residents across the Commonwealth.”
$250,000 of the bond bill is designated for the City of Lowell to install pedestrian seating, bus shelters, and other improvements to increase pedestrian safety and accessibility.
Also included is $300,000 to the city of Lowell for the planning, design and construction of sidewalk improvements along Western Avenue, to improve pedestrian accessibility and public access to the attractions in and around Western Ave Studios.
Lastly, the bond bill includes $500,000 to the City of Lowell for the planning, design, renovation, expansion and capital improvements of emergency homeless shelter facilities to increase shelter capacity and improve access to safe, temporary housing for individuals and families experiencing homelessness.
The legislation also establishes the Commonwealth’s first comprehensive statewide safety framework for e-bikes, electric scooters, mopeds, and other micromobility devices.
Following recommendations from the Special Commission on Micromobility, the bill creates a tiered classification system based on vehicle speed, establishes consistent operating standards, and provides clear statewide safety requirements to better protect riders, pedestrians, and motorists while supporting the responsible growth of micromobility across Massachusetts.
“As e-bikes and scooters become more common in communities across Massachusetts, it’s important that our laws keep pace,” Representative Hong added. “These new statewide safety standards will help protect riders, pedestrians, and drivers while encouraging the safe and responsible use of these vehicles.”
The bill passed the House 148-2 and now goes to the Senate for consideration.
