Since the beginning of the pandemic, the federal government has played an increasingly important role in transportation funding.

The American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) has provided over $5 billion to Massachusetts to assist in the recovery from the pandemic. On Tuesday, October 19th, 2021 T4MA discussed how ARPA funding should be prioritized to ensure a more equitable, accessible, and sustainable future for Massachusetts. We will explore ARPA priorities from a variety of perspectives, and hear about challenges and opportunities from across the state.

The program features remarks from Jamey Tesler, Massachusetts Secretary of Transportation, and a panel discussion moderated by Lizzi Weyant, Director of Government Affairs at the Metropolitan Area Planning Council.

Panelists include:

• Monica Tibbits-Nutt, Executive Director of the 128 Business Council and former Vice Chair of the MBTA Fiscal and Management Control Board 
• Linda Dunlavy, Executive Director of the Franklin Regional Council of Governments
• Eugenia Gibbons, Massachusetts Director of Climate Policy, Health Care Without Harm

Other resources:
MAPC Webinar: How Municipalities Can Make Meaningful Investments with ARPA Dollars
Massachusetts Municipal Association: Treasury’s ARPA guidance provides flexibility, focus on equity