MAYOR BRIAN A. DEPEÑA DELIVERS
THIRD STATE OF THE CITY ADDRESS
A PROMISING CITY ON THE RISE
Lawrence, MA (February 5, 2025) —Mayor Brian A. DePeña delivered his third State of the City
address, reflecting on his administration's accomplishments while outlining a vision for
continued growth and modernization in Lawrence. Speaking before City Councilors, department
heads, community leaders, and residents, the Mayor reaffirmed his commitment to fiscal
responsibility, infrastructure improvements, public safety, and economic development.
Strengthening City Finances
Mayor DePeña emphasized Lawrence’s strong financial standing, noting that an independent
audit confirmed improvements in fiscal management. Key achievements include:
Reducing the city’s deficit from $27.4 million in 2010 to $8.5 million.
Securing Free Cash certification from the state for $15.7 million.
Maintaining an excess tax levy capacity of $13 million.
Growing reserve funds to $57.8 million, including stabilization reserves for two new
schools and a new police station.
In addition, the city has secured $27.2 million in state and federal grants—nearly a 50% increase
in funding since the Mayor took office—to support infrastructure, public safety, housing, and
community development initiatives.
Investing in Public Safety
Public safety remains a top priority, with over $4 million allocated to police staffing, crime
prevention, opioid treatment, and fire safety programs. The administration has also initiated the
search for a new Chief of Police, ensuring a transparent selection process that prioritizes
accountability and community engagement.
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In a significant recognition of the city's first responders, three firefighters—Lieutenant Murphy,
Firefighter Sweeney, and Firefighter Fraval—were honored with the Governor’s Medal of Valor
for their heroic rescue efforts. The fire department has also received a new Ladder-4 fire truck to
enhance emergency response capabilities.
Modernizing Infrastructure and Public Services
Mayor DePeña underscored his administration’s investment in infrastructure, with nearly $5
million dedicated to repairing over 60 streets and intersections, upgrading 107 streetlights, and
enhancing parks such as Julia Silverio Park and Donovan Park. The Department of Public Works
has also introduced advanced technology for asset management, drone surveillance, and AI-
driven water and sewer system identification.
Further, Lawrence has joined the Mass Save Community First Partnership Program, ensuring
7,000 households receive no-cost weatherization and electrification services while protecting
renters from displacement.
Enhancing Accessibility and Community Services
The administration has reinstated the Commission on Disability and, in collaboration with ADA
Coordinator Richard Rodriguez, secured funding for critical accessibility improvements at City
Hall. These include wheelchair access upgrades, voice annunciators in elevators, Braille signage,
and automatic door openers.
The city has also prioritized senior services, expanding programs at the Senior Center to
accommodate the growing number of visitors. In 2024 alone, the city served over 8,195 seniors
and delivered 78,000 meals to homebound residents.
Driving Economic Growth and Development
Mayor DePeña highlighted Lawrence’s economic momentum, with the city attracting new
industries, entrepreneurs, and developers. Recent achievements include:
$2 million invested in affordable housing development.
$1.2 million allocated for emergency rental assistance.
$40 million secured for major transportation projects, including redeveloping key
intersections and the Lawrence Rail Trail.
350 new housing units and seven new restaurants contributing to the city's economic vitality.
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The Mayor also announced the launch of the Prospering Lawrence Small Business Grant, a
$500,000 initiative that has provided direct funding to 74 local businesses.
Education and Local Governance
With Lawrence Public Schools on the path to local control after over a decade under state
receivership, the Mayor welcomed Superintendent Ralph Carrero, a Lawrence native with three
decades of educational leadership experience. The city has also overseen the construction of four
new schools, including Lawrence Catholic Academy and Esperanza Academy, ensuring future
generations have access to high-quality education.
In closing, Mayor DePeña reaffirmed his commitment to building a prosperous, inclusive, and
forward-thinking Lawrence. "The future of our city is not something we wait for—it is
something we create," he stated. "Together, we will make Lawrence a city of opportunity,
growth, and resilience for future generations."
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