Sen. Keenan Secures $750,000 for Norfolk and Plymouth District

BOSTON— On April 9, the Massachusetts Senate approved legislation that will provide $750,000 in education and transportation investments in the Norfolk and Plymouth District.

“I am pleased to help the municipalities I represent realize these projects with this funding,” said Senator John F. Keenan. “Throughout the year, when I meet with constituents and municipal leaders, I take note of their needs and requests. This supplemental budget presented a great opportunity to get money back to the district for improvements that will make a meaningful difference in the lives of community members. From libraries and schools to the ferry and COAs, there is something for everyone with this funding.”

Recently, when holding Holbrook office hours, Senator Keenan learned that the Council on Aging had to take its 8-passenger van out of service due to safety concerns. To continue providing essential transportation, the COA is renting a minivan. The transportation needs of Holbrook seniors continue to grow, with nearly 2,000 rides provided last year, including more than 300 medical trips. The Holbrook Council on Aging will receive funding to purchase a new, fully accessible van. 

Abington Public Library received funding to purchase new furniture in the adult reference area. APL will add four soft chairs and four tablet tables to provide comfortable places for those with laptops and tablets to sit. Abington Public Schools also received funding for capital improvements. 

The Town of Hanover is partnering with the Commonwealth’s Department of Transportation on the reconstruction of the Route 139/Main Street/Center Street intersection. The project scope includes funding for the design, engineering, and permitting costs of moving the powerlines throughout the project area – all of which lies in Hanover’s historic town center – underground. Senator Keenan was able to secure the funding for that critical work.

“Hanover Center is a classic New England historical town center. While the intersection reconstruction will help with pedestrian and traffic safety, it would be a shame to do all that work and have overhead utilities. Placing them underground will enhance the historic charm of the area,” said Senator Keenan.

Senator Keenan also secured funding to make must-have improvements to the Quincy ferry, such as upgraded lighting in the ferry terminal to make it safer for users and workers alike.

The Quincy Public Schools will receive funding to partner with Manet Community Health Center to provide primary care and behavioral health services for students and staff. School-based providers forge relationships with students and caretakers to offer acute and routine primary care regardless of health coverage while also alleviating transportation and access barriers.

Rockland will receive funds to renovate spaces at its middle and high schools for its career pathways program. This support will allow Rockland to accelerate work by enhancing facilities and equipment, expanding course offerings, and increasing access to hands-on, skills-based experiences.  

The Senate adopted a Senator Keenan amendment to advance a road improvement project along VFW Drive/Weymouth Street Corridor in Rockland from Union Street to the Hingham line. The funds will support the installation of accessible pedestrian facilities, separated bike facilities, pavement resurfacing, the upgrade of stormwater infrastructure, and traffic signal and intersection improvements. 

The House and Senate versions of this legislation will be finalized in a conference committee before going to the Governor for her review.

“I am hopeful the Conference Committee will include the local funding secured in the Senate version of this bill, all of which will have positive impacts for the residents of the communities I represent,” said Senator Keenan.