Annual Chapter 90 program funds for infrastructure improvement decrease

ROCHESTER — Every year, towns across Massachusetts receive state funding for infrastructure improvement projects and educational programs through the Chapter 90 program. 

The Rochester Select Board announced this year’s total at its Monday, March 16 meeting and discussed a letter concerning these funds from Governor Maura Healey and Lt. Governor Kim Driscoll. 

While the amount Rochester receives each year typically remains about the same or increases, it saw an approximately $10,000 to $20,000 decrease compared to recent years, Town Administrator Cameron Durant said.  

The town will receive about half a million dollars this year, and while this is more that it received through similar funding programs, Durant said the decrease will be felt. 

Durant said it is a small decrease, but as costs rise for materials and labor, the given aid may not be enough. With reduced federal funds and support, he said towns are struggling with stricter budgets. 

“I think there's less federal resources flowing in,” he said. “There's concerns about the consistency of federal resources.”

The Rochester Highway Department will handle the allocated funds, and will be used for general maintenance across town throughout the year. 

Last year, the department used Chapter 90 funds to improve New Bedford Road.