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S 2417

An Act to review the municipal Chapter 90 transportation funding program

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Paul Mark

S 2417 requires Massachusetts to comprehensively review its Chapter 90 municipal transportation funding program to assess allocation fairness and program effectiveness statewide.

Hearing rescheduled to 10/14/2025 from 01:00 PM-05:00 PM in A-1 and Virtual Hearing location changed
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Bill Summary · S 2417

Legislative bill overview

S 2417 directs Massachusetts to conduct a comprehensive review of the Chapter 90 municipal transportation funding program, which distributes state money to cities and towns for road and bridge repairs. The bill establishes a formal examination of how these funds are allocated, spent, and whether the program effectively meets infrastructure needs across municipalities of varying sizes and resources.

Why is this important

Chapter 90 is Massachusetts' primary mechanism for funding local transportation infrastructure, distributing roughly $200+ million annually. A structured review could identify whether current allocation formulas fairly serve all communities, whether funding keeps pace with infrastructure deterioration, and whether the program operates efficiently—potentially informing how billions in future transportation dollars are spent.

Potential points of contention

  • Allocation equity concerns: Review may expose whether wealthier municipalities receive disproportionate funding or can better navigate the application process, while rural or economically disadvantaged towns fall behind
  • Funding adequacy vs. state budget constraints: Findings might recommend increased state investment in infrastructure at a time when Massachusetts faces competing budget priorities and fiscal limitations
  • Implementation burden: Municipalities may worry that a review process will delay desperately needed road repairs or create administrative requirements that strain already-limited local budgets

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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