By William Angelo – Engineering News-Record
08/11/2008
Massachusetts Governor Deval L. Patrick (D) signed into law the first week of August three bills allocating over $5 billion for construction. One bill would earmark $3-billion for accelerated bridge repair and replacement targeting about 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.
Filed under: Construction economy, Economy
