Governor’s action will allow billions of dollars to begin flowing to Massachusetts
BOSTON – Wednesday, February 25, 2009 – Returning from the National Governors Association meeting in Washington, D.C. today, Governor Deval Patrick submitted written notice to the Obama Administration that Massachusetts is ready to receive billions of dollars in federal recovery aid. While in D.C., Governor Patrick attended meetings with the President and other leaders, focusing on how to invest these critical funds in projects that create and retain jobs and provide long-term economic value to the Commonwealth.
“These funds will help us get started rebuilding our economy,” said Governor Patrick. “We will work quickly and responsibly to maximize the opportunities ahead. There is no time for delay.”
The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 requires the Governor to certify within 45 days of the Act’s passage that he will request the funds, and indicate that he will use them for their intended purpose. The Patrick Administration began mobilizing for recovery aid last December, establishing Task Forces to review and develop clean energy, education, information technology and other projects that may be eligible for federal funding.
Earlier this month, moving to ensure the funds are spent with integrity and transparency, Governor Patrick appointed a Director of Infrastructure Investment to oversee the Administration’s effort to invest an estimated $1 billion to $2 billion in statewide infrastructure projects. He also launched the state’s recovery website, www.mass.gov/recovery. Similar to the White House’s web site, www.mass.gov/recovery will allow the public to track recovery-related spending.
Based on preliminary estimates, Massachusetts is in line to receive between $6 and $9 billion over the next two-plus years from funds to be allocated through various formulas. For more information about the Patrick Administration’s efforts, visit www.mass.gov/recovery.
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