The government meeting held on February 15, 2025, in Brockton, Massachusetts, focused on transportation funding and affordable housing initiatives. Governor Healey opened the session by announcing a significant allocation of $160 million in tax credits aimed at increasing affordable housing across the state, which is expected to facilitate the development of approximately 440 new housing units in Brockton.
The meeting highlighted the importance of regional transit authorities (RTAs) in the state's transportation framework. Governor Healey acknowledged the contributions of local RTA leaders, including Mike Lambert from Brockton Area Transit (BAT), Noah Berger from Merrimack Valley, Eric Russo from Southeastern Regional Transit Authority, Mary Ellen De Frias from the Greater Attleboro Regional Transit Authority, Chris Cooney from Metro South Chamber, and Bill Mitchell from Massasoit Community College.
Governor Healey emphasized the historic levels of federal funding received over the past two years, amounting to $9 million, which has been directed towards infrastructure and transportation projects. She noted that state funding has enabled all 13 RTAs to offer fare-free services since last year, contributing to a resurgence in ridership. The community rail ridership has reportedly returned to pre-pandemic levels, marking one of the strongest recoveries in the nation. Additionally, the Governor mentioned the elimination of slow zones on the transit system for the first time in over two decades, indicating improvements in service efficiency.
In conclusion, the meeting underscored the state's commitment to enhancing transportation infrastructure and affordable housing, with a focus on collaboration with regional transit authorities to improve public transit services and accessibility for residents.