Governor Patrick Signs Three Bills

This past summer, Massachusetts Governor Deval L. Patrick (D) signed three bills allocating over $5 billion for construction. One bill would earmark $3 billion for accelerated bridge repair and the replacement targeting of 250 to 300 of the state's 543 structurally deficient bridges. By accelerating the work, the state hopes to save $1.5 billion in cost inflation and deferred maintenance. Another $2.2 billion was allocated for new college building or renovation projects — including $1 billion to the five University of Massachusetts campuses and $1.2 billion to state and community colleges. Finally, a $40-million bond was authorized to bring the Internet to rural communities. The broadband bill would cover 32 communities in western Massachusetts by funding fiber, wireless towers and other infrastructure. About 95 communities have no or limited access — adversely impacting education, economic development and communication.