Thursday, 4:30 PM
Emergency bond bill filed to repair roads, build psychiatric hospital
By Mac Daniel, Globe Staff
The Patrick administration filed an emergency $1.47 billion bond bill today to fund initiatives that range from road repairs to construction of a new psychiatric hospital, including $100 million for the design of four transit projects to help offset the environmental impact of the Big Dig.
"This is just a stopgap measure to address emergency needs," said Governor Deval Patrick, adding that he planned to unveil a 5-year capital plan in the coming months.
Patrick announced the bill as he stood with House Speaker Salvatore F. DiMasi and Senate President Robert E. Travaglini at a State House press conference.
"This is cost avoidance, and these are critical projects that we need to fund," DiMasi said. "We feel we can get this particular bond bill through in an expeditious manner."
The bill is expected to go before the Legislature as early as next week. The projects funded by the bond would include the construction of a bridge in Quincy to alleviate traffic congestion downtown and provide an additional access ramp to Route 3; $250 million for a state psychiatric hospital to replace two "antiquated" facilities; and $150 million for local road repair.
"This legislation demonstrates our on-going commitment to the cities and towns of the Commonwealth," said Travaglini in a statement. "Among other things, it provides a quick infusion of investments to help communities maintain roads and keep their repair projects on track."
Other projects include reconstruction of Route 9 in Shrewsbury to upgrade traffic signals, water and sewer lines, and sidewalks. In Taunton, the bond would fund the expansion of the city's business district.
