During a late-night session last Wednesday, the Massachusetts House of Representatives unanimously voted in support of the Mass Ready Act, an environmental bond bill to strengthen infrastructure, boost climate resilience, protect clean water, and invest in communities across Massachusetts.
The bill funds flood protection, transportation, conservation, and local food systems, helping communities face future challenges.
The 151-0 House vote followed a 36-3 vote in the Senate on that body’s version of the bill, with the two chambers now working to reconcile differences in the their respective versions.
18th Middlesex State Representative Tara Hong (D-Lowell) was joined by 16th Middlesex State Representative Rodney Elliott (D-Lowell), voting in favor of the bill which helps secure $1.5 million in bond funding for Lowell projects to restore culverts and improve drainage, reducing flooding and strengthening infrastructure.
“These investments protect neighborhoods, strengthen infrastructure, and improve quality of life for Lowell residents,” said Representative Hong. “I was proud to secure funding that benefits our community while advancing statewide preparedness.”
The Mass Ready Act invests billions in climate resilience, transportation, flood mitigation, environmental protection, and economic development. It also streamlines permitting for key infrastructure and housing projects, helping communities advance initiatives more efficiently.
The legislation is one of the Commonwealth’s largest investments in environmental resilience and infrastructure, helping communities like Lowell address climate change, improve water quality, reduce flooding, and modernize infrastructure, ensuring cities like Lowell are ready for future challenges.
Representative Hong touted his advocacy as showing his commitment to returning state resources to the district and ensuring local investment.
“Whether it is improving infrastructure, protecting our environment, addressing climate challenges, or investing in our neighborhoods, I will continue fighting to bring resources home and deliver results for our community,” Hong added.
