State Representative Rodney Elliott (D–Lowell) announced over the weekend that Governor Maura Healey is expected to sign into law legislation he co-sponsored along with State Representative Tara Hong (D-Lowell), titled An Act authorizing the Division of Capital Asset Management and Maintenance to grant easements in certain parcels of land to the city of Lowell.

The measure, now on the Governor’s desk for final approval, is essential to advancing the City of Lowell’s $60 million sewer separation project, a long-planned infrastructure initiative centered in the Centralville neighborhood of the 16th Middlesex District. Once signed, the new law will ensure that the city can move forward without further delay on a project that directly impacts public health, environmental quality, and long-term infrastructure resilience.

“This is a great day for Lowell,” said Representative Elliott. “These easements are essential to moving this long-awaited project forward and protecting our infrastructure, environment, and public health.”

The legislation authorizes the Division of Capital Asset Management and Maintenance (DCAMM), in consultation with the Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR), to grant permanent and perpetual easements along the Merrimack River. These easements are required for the construction, maintenance, repair, and operation of outfall structures and drainage systems connected to the sewer separation project.

Rep. Elliott emphasized that the act strikes a careful balance between critical urban infrastructure needs and longstanding conservation commitments.

“This legislation reflects responsible public policy,” he added. “We are protecting taxpayer dollars while enabling a project that will benefit Lowell residents for generations.”

Representative Vanna Howard (D–Lowell) praised the legislation, noting its significance for both public health and environmental stewardship.

“Investing in the city’s infrastructure and proactively safeguarding the health of the Merrimack River are critically important,” Howard said. “Proud to work on securing the final vote for Lowell on this piece of legislation. I want to thank Senator Ed Kennedy and his staff, Senate colleagues, and my fellow representatives on this important vote to help move Lowell forward.”

Representative Hong (D–Lowell) highlighted the collaboration behind the effort stating, “I am grateful to both the House and the Senate, and to my colleagues in the Lowell delegation, for ensuring the passage of H.4772. The passage of this bill demonstrates our shared commitment to getting the job done for our great city. This legislation delivers meaningful support for Lowell, strengthening our wastewater infrastructure, investing in our neighborhoods, and helping move our community forward.”

Lowell City Manager, Tom Golden, echoed those sentiments, stressing the role of the state delegation in advancing the project saying, “This legislation was an intricate piece to start the work on the federal mandate. I thank our State House Delegation for delivering for our City again.”

As the legislative work moves forward in the wake of Senator Ed Kennedy’s recent passing, members of his team continue to advance the priorities he championed throughout his career. Speaking on behalf of the late senator’s office, Legislative Director James Ostis, reflected on the significance of the legislation.

“This piece of legislation is one of the key bills that Senator Ed Kennedy had been working on during this legislative session, and it directly impacts two of his chief priorities: improving the City of Lowell’s municipal infrastructure and the long-term health and safety of the Merrimack River,” Ostis said. “I really want to thank our House delegation for their great teamwork on this endeavor, and I am immensely grateful to the staff and members of the Massachusetts State Senate for all their support in passing this bill.”

Rep. Elliott closed by reaffirming the importance of the measure.

“This law delivers real benefits for the people of Lowell. It supports cleaner neighborhoods, protects our river, and helps build the stronger, more resilient community our residents deserve.”