The Healey-Driscoll administration is breathing new life into local infrastructure and economic development across Massachusetts with the launch of two grant programs designed to provide technical assistance to municipalities and tribal entities. As reported by mass.gov, these initiatives aim to enhance the capacity of local governments, especially in rural and Gateway Cities, to tap into federal funding sources.
Underlining the need for these programs, Governor Maura Healey stated in a press release, "More technical assistance means revitalized downtowns, safer roads, new homes and more jobs in our communities." The programs, the Municipal and Tribal Assistance Grant Program (MTTA) and the Technical Assistance Grants for Regional Planning Agencies (TARPA), boast an allocation of approximately $4.5 million over the next two fiscal years. Alongside the grant programs, Lt. Governor Kim Driscoll expressed optimism, telling mass.gov about the profound impact she anticipates for Massachusetts’ transportation, climate, housing, and economic development projects.
The funding for these initiatives comes without diminishing the state’s Stabilization Fund, as the resources are derived from the interest accrued there. Administration and Finance Secretary Matthew J. Gorzkowicz underlined that, in the face of economic uncertainty, "our Administration is using every financial tool available—including leveraging interest from our Stabilization Fund—to sustainably support Massachusetts cities and towns," in a statement provided to mass.gov.
Through the MTTA, local governments and federally-recognized tribes can seek grants for a variety of needs such as grant writing, project scoping, and post-award management support relating to infrastructure endeavors. Concurrently, TARPA will distribute formula-based grants to Regional Planning Agencies aiding cities and towns with similar project needs. Applications for the MTTA program are now open, while details and supports for TARPA will be provided to the state's 13 RPAs, according to Senior Federal Funds and Infrastructure officials cited on mass.gov. Both programs have been approved through Governor Healey's federal funds bill, highlighting a collaborative approach to enhancing the state’s infrastructure.
For those seeking to learn more about these grants or the application process, further information can be found at the FFIO website, with an event slated for September 23rd that will offer a presentation and opportunity for Q&A. Details on these sessions and registration can be secured through mass.gov.
