Neal Calls for Regional Equity in State Transportation Debate

WASHINGTON - Following the release of a report last week on the future of public transit in the state by 28 of the largest business groups in Massachusetts, Congressman Richard E. Neal today called for regional equity to ensure that transportation projects in western and central Massachusetts are given equal consideration when decisions are made on where to invest public funds. In its study, the Massachusetts Business Coalition on Transportation called for more government spending to help improve and upgrade the Commonwealth’s transportation infrastructure. The Massachusetts state legislature is also in the process of debating a transportation spending package with a vote expected in the House of Representatives later this month.   

“While I welcome the current debate in the Commonwealth about expanding public transportation, it continues to be my belief that the needs of western and central Massachusetts must be given equal consideration in that conversation. Investing in our state’s transportation infrastructure system is a necessity, but regional and economic equity must be an important part of the decision making process. As someone who has fought to bring federal resources back to the state, I intend to have a strong voice on where public money is spent.

I worked hard to secure the millions of dollars in federal stimulus funds that helped upgrade north-south rail through the “Knowledge Corridor” of western New England. That successful venture is reducing congestion in the Pioneer Valley and has become very popular with riders. I have also been a long-time champion of east-west rail connecting Pittsfield, Springfield and Boston. My support for that project has been unwavering. I believe east-west rail would be transformative for the region and the state. As the discussion about our transportation needs and how to pay for them continues, my priority will continue to be regional equity to ensure that the needs of western and central Massachusetts are met,” said Congressman Richard E. Neal.   

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