As we continue to see attacks on congressional spending power, this is an important reminder of why our Founding Fathers entrusted the power of the purse to Congress,” said Rep. Neal.
Written by Berkshire Edge Staff
Washington, D.C. — On Wednesday, February 4, U.S. Rep. Richard E. Neal (D – Massachusetts 1st Congressional District) announced his successful effort to secure $14.3 million in Community Project Funds for the First Congressional District of Massachusetts during the fiscal year 2026 appropriations cycle.
“I am proud to have secured more than $14 million in Community Project Funds to support the needs of western and central Massachusetts. As we continue to see attacks on congressional spending power, this is an important reminder of why our Founding Fathers entrusted the power of the purse to Congress,” said Rep. Neal. “From North Adams to Oxford, I partnered with community leaders throughout the district to explore different funding opportunities that will best serve the needs of my constituents. These investments will strengthen our infrastructure, expand educational opportunities, and improve quality of life for families and businesses across the district for years to come.”
Rep. Neal championed funding for 15 projects that will directly benefit communities across Massachusetts’ 1st Congressional District, including in Berkshire County:
- $1.02 million for the Berkshire South Regional Community Center, Great Barrington, for the North Wing Expansion for community wellness and education;
- $735,000 for the Berkshire Innovation Center, Pittsfield, for the Cybersecurity Learning and Testing Facility;
- $1.2 million for the Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts, North Adams, for the Early Education Facility development and construction; and
- $995,000 for the Berkshire Community College Trades Academy in Pittsfield.
Since the fiscal year 2022 appropriations cycle, Rep. Neal has secured more than $56 million in congressionally directed spending to support more than 50 projects across Massachusetts’ 1st Congressional District.
