$7.5M For Canal District Proposed In Latest Stimulus Round

Gov. Deval Patrick is proposing to fund 33 road improvement projects totaling $165 million, including $7.5 million in improvements to Worcester's Canal District, with the state's second round of American Recovery and Reinvestment Act funding.

Patrick announced the priority projects ahead of an economic summit he will convene Tuesday at the Federal Reserve Bank of Boston. The summit's goal is to identify ways to promote long-term economic recovery and job growth for Massachusetts.

The projects identified by Patrick must be reviewed for final approval by the state's 13 Metropolitan Planning Organizations before being put out to bid.

Once out to bid, the projects will complete the Patrick administration's investment of $437.9 million in ARRA highway funds allocated to the state by the federal government.

In addition to the $7.5 million improvements to Canal District roadways, the projects include bike paths, improvements to MBTA bus service and 25 other road improvement projects across the state.

In a statement, U.S. Rep. James McGovern said he was particularly excited about the funding for the Canal District. "This is a rapidly developing neighborhood in the city, close to public transportation. These improvements will enhance the neighborhood's reputation as a great place to live and work," he said.

Lt. Gov. Timothy P. Murray said, "we look forward to getting shovels in the ground as quickly as possible."