BOSTON – State Representative Frank A. Moran (D—Lawrence, Andover, Methuen) is pleased to announce the approval of a number of amendments to the comprehensive bond bill proposed by the Representative. The approved amendments are as follows:
- $25 million for the construction of a new Lawrence police station
- $1.5 million for the continued renewal of the Lawrence Rail Trail
- $500,000 for a new athletic field for Greater Lawrence Technical School
Representative Moran joined his colleagues in the Legislature to pass final legislation titled An Act providing for capital facility repairs and improvements for the Commonwealth (H.4018), authorizing $3.5 billion in capital spending to fund maintenance and repair of public buildings throughout the Commonwealth. The bill passed by a vote of 144-6.
“To conclude this year’s legislative session by securing this funding for our district is huge,” said Rep. Moran. “With these three approved amendments, we are able to continue our progress towards a community that is safer, more efficient and prosperous, and one that supports its students both inside the classroom and out with extracurricular activities. I made these particular projects a priority from day one this year, and I’m thrilled for our district that we were able to deliver on them.”
Lawrence Mayor Dan Rivera commented on the Lawrence police station funding saying, “When I became Mayor four years ago, my main goal was to increase public safety and restore what was once a demoralized, decimated police force. We have made great strides in this effort. One of the biggest steps to making Lawrence safer is to ensure that our community has a first class police headquarters. I thank Representative Frank Moran on his leadership and determination to secure this funding for the City of Lawrence.”
Touching on the Lawrence Rail Trail funding, Mayor Rivera’s Business and Economic Development Director, Abel Vargas noted that, “The Lawrence Rail Trail project is a 1.4 mile stretch of land that has long been abandoned and represents an opportunity to make a difference in the lives of so many. An investment in this project will transform what is now a nuisance into an open space amenity for Lawrence residents to enjoy. Nestled between a main commercial corridor and a residential neighborhood, this project will enhance the many businesses that abut the trail while uplifting the quality of life of the residents in the area.”
Speaking in regards to the GLTS athletic field funding, GLTS Superintendent John Lavoie added, “The entire Greater Lawrence Technical School Community is very grateful to Representative Moran and the House of Representatives for supporting a bond bill that provides $500,000 to help with the construction of a new athletic field at the school. This funding will allow us to start moving forward with the project this spring but most importantly we will be able to expand our physical education programs at GLTS. In addition, the new fields will allow for many more youth programs from our sending communities to utilize the facility. Many youth programs in our area are in need of quality fields to compete with more affluent communities. One of those programs is Beyond Soccer which we are excited to support with our new fields. Again, let me say thank you as I believe this bond will open new opportunities for athletic growth and well-being for the young and adult population of our community.”
The bond bill was the subject of negotiations throughout the final day of session, and authorized funding for a number of other local projects across the state. The funding package will now move forward for discussions with the Senate before heading to the executive branch for the same.
