Massachusetts Governor Maura Healey has signed a $1.3 billion supplemental budget focused on improving transportation infrastructure and strengthening the state's education system. The funding comes from surplus Fair Share revenue collected during Fiscal Year 2024 and is part of a broader plan to address long-standing challenges in both sector, according to Mass.gov.
The budget allocates $758.8 million for transportation and $561.4 million for education, drawing from the state's $2.46 billion Fair Share revenue reserve. The transportation funding includes $548 million for the Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA) to help maintain operating reserves, improve infrastructure, and continue low-income fare programs. It also sets aside $80 million for local road repairs through Chapter 90 and $50 million for Regional Transit Authorities.
On the education side, $190 million is allocated to help school districts manage rising special education costs, including full funding for the state’s special education circuit breaker program. Another $100 million will support career technical education, while $25.6 million is designated for early literacy and high-dosage tutoring efforts aimed at addressing learning loss. Higher education institutions will receive $115 million for capital improvements.
MBTA General Manager Phillip Eng highlighted the broad impact of the funding, noting that investments in education and transportation are vital to enhancing quality of life and strengthening community connections. The budget demonstrates continued collaboration between the executive and legislative branches and is aimed at supporting long-term improvements for residents across Massachusetts.
