Community Project Funding Requests FY26

Rep. Trahan has submitted funding requests for community projects in Massachusetts’ Third Congressional District to the House Appropriations Committee.

Under guidelines issued by the Appropriations Committee, each Representative may request funding for up to 15 projects in fiscal year 2026. Projects are restricted to a limited number of federal funding streams, and only state and local governments and eligible non-profit entities are permitted to receive funding. Additional information on the reforms governing Community Project Funding is available here. In compliance with House rules and Appropriations Committee requirements, Rep. Trahan has certified that neither she nor her immediate family has any financial interest in any of the projects she has requested. The submissions are listed in alphabetical order by city/town of the proposed recipient.


[Subcommittee On Transportation, Housing And Urban Development, And Related Agencies]

Lowell Priority Intersections Project

Amount Requested: $3,300,000

Recipient: 

City of Lowell, Massachusetts 

375 Merrimack St, Lowell, MA 01852

Project Description: The Lowell Priority Intersection Project will support necessary upgrades to aging infrastructure at priority intersections in the Acre Neighborhood within the City of Lowell. The City is working closely with the University of Massachusetts Lowell on an exciting economic development project known as the Lowell Innovation Network Corridor (LINC). This project will contribute to the economic development opportunities created by LINC by ensuring that drivers, cyclists, and pedestrians are able to safely and efficiently navigate the area to capitalize on these opportunities.

Justification: The project is a valuable use of taxpayer funds because these intersections are critical and essential to accessing educational and economic opportunities in the City of Lowell. This project will upgrade the infrastructure at these priority intersections to ensure that drivers, cyclists, and pedestrians are able to navigate the area safely and efficiently.

Federal Nexus: The project has a Federal nexus because the funding provided is for purposes authorized by 42 U.S.C. 5305(a)(2).

Signed Disclosure Agreement


[Subcommittee On Transportation, Housing And Urban Development, And Related Agencies]

Lawrence Bridges Restoration Project

Amount Requested: $2,500,000 

Recipient: 

City of Lawrence, Massachusetts 

200 Common Street, Room 309, Lawrence, MA 01840

Project Description: The Lawrence Bridges Restoration Project will contribute to the restoration and improvement of two critical bridges in the City of Lawrence: the Joseph W. Casey Bridge and the Daisy Street Bridge. These bridges are vital transportation arteries for the residents of Lawrence. This project will address public safety concerns raised by the deteriorating condition and potential failure of these bridges while promoting economic vitality and community connectivity for the residents of Lawrence.

Justification: The project is a valuable use of taxpayer funds because it will deliver significant safety and economic benefits to the Lawrence community. By restoring these bridges, the City of Lawrence will reduce public safety risks for drivers, cyclists, and pedestrians using the bridges. Additionally, once restored, these bridges will foster economic growth, local commerce, and community connectivity for the residents of Lawrence, making it easier for them to travel to work, school, and patronize local businesses.

Federal Nexus: The project has a Federal nexus because the funding provided is for purposes authorized by 23 U.S.C. 133

Signed Disclosure Agreement


[Subcommittee On Transportation, Housing And Urban Development, And Related Agencies]

Merrimack Downtown Redevelopment Project

Amount Requested: $2,500,000

Recipient: 

City of Haverhill, Massachusetts 

4 Summer Street, Haverhill, MA  01830

Project Description: The Merrimack Downtown Redevelopment Project is a mixed-use economic development and community enhancement project which will bring new jobs to Haverhill and new customers to local businesses. This funding will be used to support infrastructure improvements necessary to complete Phase III of the City’s downtown redevelopment project, which will enhance connectivity, public safety, and economic development opportunities. 

Justification: The project strengthens the local economy by improving walkability, increasing access to commercial areas, and enhancing public safety. The larger redevelopment will support the creation of over 200 new jobs as well as the development of new restaurants and tourist attractions which will directly contribute to significant workforce development and economic prosperity opportunities for the Haverhill community. 

Federal Nexus:  The project has a Federal nexus because the funding provided is for purposes authorized by 42 U.S.C. 5305(a)(2) and 5305(a)(5).

Signed Disclosure Agreement


[Subcommittee On Transportation, Housing And Urban Development, And Related Agencies]

Water Street Gateway Corridor Sidewalk and Lighting Replacement Project

Amount Requested: $1,600,000

Recipient

City of Fitchburg, Massachusetts 

718 Main Street, Fitchburg, MA 01420

Project Description: The Water Street Gateway Corridor Sidewalk and Lighting Replacement Project will support transformative infrastructure improvements for the City of Fitchburg. The funding will be used to install new sidewalks and lighting along Water Street, a gateway corridor from the highway to Downtown Fitchburg. 

Justification: The purpose of this project is to provide the necessary pedestrian infrastructure improvements to accommodate development along this gateway corridor. Core components of the project include removing dead and aging street trees, replacing of existing deteriorated concrete and asphalt sidewalk with new ADA compliant concrete sidewalk, and replacing and expanding existing street lighting with attractive and welcoming new street lighting. The project is a valuable use of taxpayer funds because it will provide the base infrastructure necessary to attract future investments in the redevelopment of Fitchburg.

Federal Nexus: The project has a Federal nexus because the funding provided is consistent with purposes authorized in 42 U.S.C.5305(a)(2).

Signed Disclosure Agreement


[Subcommittee On Transportation, Housing And Urban Development, And Related Agencies]

Strategic Property Acquisition in Support of the Lowell Innovation Network Corridor

Amount Requested: $2,000,000

Recipient: 

University of Massachusetts Lowell

220 Pawtucket Street, Suite 420, Lowell, MA 01854

Project Description: The requested funding will enable the University to complete the purchase and rehabilitation of an existing building on West Adams Street and adjacent land. This critical project will support the relocation of UML’s back-of-house facilities currently occupying LINC and LINC-adjacent parcels. 

Justification: By leveraging this federal funding, the University and its partners will transform Lowell into a thriving technology and innovation hub — delivering a high return on taxpayer dollars through regional revitalization and long-term economic resilience.

Federal Nexus: The project has a Federal nexus because the funding provided is for purposes authorized by 42 U.S.C. 5305(a)(1) and 5305(a)(4).

Signed Disclosure Agreement


[Subcommittee on Interior, Environment, and Related Agencies]

Centralville Sewer Separation Project 

Amount Requested:  $5,000,000

Recipient: 

City of Lowell, Massachusetts 

375 Merrimack St, Lowell, MA 01852

Project Description: The funding would be used to support the completion of the first phases of the separation of the Humphrey’s Brook and Billings Street Wetlands combined sewer system in the Centralville neighborhood of Lowell.

Justification: The project is an appropriate use of taxpayer funds because it will directly contribute to the reduction, both by frequency and volume, of combined sewer overflows (CSOs) in the Merrimack River. Sewer separation helps to mitigate the risk of combined sewer overflows (CSOs), which can lead to contamination of water bodies and public health hazards. By separating stormwater and wastewater, the burden on treatment plants is reduced, extending their lifespan and adding capacity for further economic development all while avoiding costly plant upgrades.

Federal Nexus: The project has a Federal nexus because the funding provided is for purposes authorized by Title VI of the Clean Water Act, 33 U.S.C 1381 et seq.

Signed Disclosure Agreement


[Subcommittee on Interior, Environment, and Related Agencies]

Groton/Dunstable/Pepperell Regional Water System Expansion for PFAS Mitigation

Amount Requested: $4,500,000

Recipient: 

Town of Groton, Massachusetts

173 Main Street, Groton, MA 01450

Project Description: This project will bring clean potable municipal drinking water to the Groton-Dunstable Regional High School and surrounding private properties in Groton and Dunstable that have been contaminated by PFAS/PFOA from a fire in 2003 that was extinguished using firefighting foam. 

Justification: The project is an appropriate use of taxpayer funds because it directly addresses a public health threat of PFAS contamination detected in the school’s water supply. As evidence of this project’s critical importance, it was included on the State of Massachusetts Drinking Water 2024 State Revolving Fund Intended Use Plan. This project will provide clean drinking water to the school so that students, faculty, and nearby families do not have to think twice about the safety of the water they are drinking. 

Federal Nexus: The project has a Federal nexus because the funding provided is for purposes authorized by Section 1452 of the Safe Drinking Water Act, 42 U.S.C. 300j-12.

Signed Disclosure Agreement


[Subcommittee on Interior, Environment, and Related Agencies]

Westford PFAS Treatment Infrastructure Project

Amount Requested: $2,134,000

Recipient: 

Town of Westford, Massachusetts

55 Main Street, Westford, MA 01886

Project Description: The Westford PFAS Treatment Infrastructure Project will support the Town of Westford in the construction of two new treatment facilities to remove PFAS contaminants from their drinking water at Nutting Road and Forge Village Water Treatment Plants. This funding will support the final design and construction of the treatment plants.

Justification: These federal funds will reduce the financial burden of these necessary treatment facilities on the residents and businesses of Westford. 

Federal Nexus:  The project has a Federal nexus because the funding provided is for purposes authorized by Section 1452 of the Safe Drinking Water Act, 42 U.S.C. 300j-12.

Signed Disclosure Agreement


[Subcommittee On Transportation, Housing And Urban Development, And Related Agencies]

Bolton Street (Route 85) and Union Street Intersection Improvement Project

Amount Requested:  $1,200,000

Recipient: 

City of Marlborough, Massachusetts

140 Main Street Marlborough MA 01752

Project Description: The Bolton Street (Route 85) and Union Street Intersection Improvement Project consists of essential safety and traffic flow improvements at a high-traffic intersection located near three public schools and key emergency services. This project prioritizes driver, cyclist, and pedestrian safety through upgraded crosswalks, signage, lighting, and traffic-calming features. Safer, more efficient flow of multi-modal transportation through this critical corridor will ensure access to education, medical services, and economic opportunities for the residents of Marlborough.

Justification: This project is a valuable use of taxpayer funds because it represents a responsible and valuable allocation of resources which will directly support the safety of students, ensures efficient emergency vehicle access, and improves overall traffic flow for the community. The proposed improvements will address current challenges while proactively preparing for increased demand. 

Federal Nexus: The project has a Federal nexus because the funding provided is consistent with purposes authorized in 42 U.S.C.5305(a)(2).

Signed Disclosure Agreement


[Subcommittee on Interior, Environment, and Related Agencies]

Littleton Common Sewer System Expansion Project

Amount Requested: $1,500,000

Recipient: 

Town of Littleton

37 Shattuck Street, PO Box 1305, Littleton, MA  01460

Project Description: The Littleton Common Sewer System Expansion Project will support the construction of a new sewer system to support economic development in the Town of Littleton. Redevelopment of Littleton Common, the Town’s central commercial hub, is currently underway and the Town requires additional sewer discharge capacity to support this project. The mixed-use redevelopment of Littleton Common will support multi-family and commercial developments in underutilized properties, making this added discharge capacity a priority for the Town.

Justification: This expanded system is a valuable use of taxpayer funds because it will provide essential sewer utility to ensure the health and safety of the residents of Littleton.

Federal Nexus: The project has a Federal nexus because the funding provided is for purposes authorized by Title VI of the Clean Water Act, 33 U.S.C 1381 et seq.

Signed Disclosure Agreement


[Subcommittee On Transportation, Housing And Urban Development, And Related Agencies]

Gardner Community Center Upgrades and Improvements

Amount Requested:  $1,300,000

Recipient: 

City of Gardner, Massachusetts

95 Pleasant Street, Gardner, MA 01440

Project Description: The Gardner Community Center Upgrades and Improvements project will support the final phase of the redevelopment of the former Waterford Street School building to open a new community center in Gardner. The property is owned and operated by the City of Gardner and rehabilitation of this site will transform it into a multipurpose facility housing residential services and community events. This request would fund the final phase of the renovations to ensure that the building is ADA-compliant and ready for public use.

Justification: These final renovations are a valuable use of taxpayer funds due to the community and economic development benefits which the completion of the Community Center will provide to the residents of Gardner. The project will empower community-led growth by providing much-needed space for local organizations and residential service providers to expand their operations

Federal Nexus: The project has a Federal nexus because the funding provided is for purposes authorized by 42 U.S.C. 5305(a)(2) and 5305(a)(4).

Signed Disclosure Agreement


[Subcommittee On Commerce, Justice, Science, And Related Agencies]

The Phoenix Essex County Community Reentry Project

Amount Requested: $750,000

Recipient: 

Phoenix Multisport, Inc. d/b/a The Phoenix

54 Newmarket Square, Boston, MA 02118

Project Description: This project enhances a comprehensive reentry and wellness effort that serves both justice-involved individuals and law enforcement personnel, fostering a safer, more resilient community across Essex County’s criminal justice system.

Justification: This program is urgently needed. In the last decade, opioid-related deaths in Essex County have increased by 199%. In 2022, nearly half of individuals entering county facilities tested positive for drugs at intake, and up to 56% were referred to treatment, straining resources. Despite expanded services, recidivism for those with substance use disorders remains at 66%—40% higher than the general incarcerated population. Through in-person and digital support, The Phoenix and ECSD will reduce relapse, overdose, and recidivism—creating a safer Essex County.

Federal Nexus: The project has a Federal nexus because the funding provided is for purposes authorized by the Byrne Justice Assistance Grants (JAG) program, section 501 of the Omnibus Crime Control and Safe Streets Act of 1968 (34 U.S.C. § 10152).

Signed Disclosure Agreement


[Subcommittee On Transportation, Housing And Urban Development, And Related Agencies]

North Central Massachusetts Auto Technician Training Center Expansion Project

Amount Requested:  $1,000,000

Recipient: 

Mount Wachusett Community College

444 Green Street Gardner, MA 01440

Project Description: The funding would be used to reconstruct and improve 12,000 square feet of unused warehouse space at MWCC’s existing training center. The renovation project includes the addition of new classrooms and repair bays for students to learn about the diagnosis, repair, and service of automobiles with future expansion into auto body repair or diesel technician training. 

Justification: This project will be a valuable use of taxpayer funds because it will reconstruct and improve a training facility that addresses growing industry demand for automotive repair and maintenance technicians in the North Central Massachusetts region.

Federal Nexus: The project has a Federal nexus because the funding provided is for purposes authorized by 42 U.S.C. 5305(a)(4).

Signed Disclosure Agreement


[Subcommittee On Transportation, Housing And Urban Development, And Related Agencies]

Methuen Critical Intersection Safety Improvement Project

Amount Requested:  $1,500,000

Recipient

City of Methuen, Massachusetts

41 Pleasant Street, Methuen, MA 01844

Project Description: The Methuen Critical Intersection Safety Improvement Project targets the City’s most hazardous intersections to dramatically enhance public safety, mobility, and economic vitality. These intersections serve key community facilities including hospitals, schools, religious institutions, emergency service routes, and local businesses. With high traffic volumes and a troubling history of vehicular and pedestrian accidents, these areas urgently require upgrades. By simplifying traffic patterns, upgrading pedestrian infrastructure, and improving vehicle flow, the project will significantly reduce crash risks and enhance the vitality of adjacent neighborhoods.

Justification: This investment is a responsible use of taxpayer dollars because it directly addresses urgent public safety concerns while unlocking economic development potential. Safer, more accessible streets will make nearby businesses more attractive to customers, support job retention and growth, and increase quality of life for Methuen residents. 

Federal Nexus: The project has a Federal nexus because the funding provided is consistent with purposes authorized in 42 U.S.C.5305(a)(2).

Signed Disclosure Agreement


[Subcommittee On Transportation, Housing And Urban Development, And Related Agencies]

Sheltered Bus Stops for Boxborough/Acton Inter-Town Bus System 

Amount Requested: $455,000

Recipient: 

Town of Boxborough, Massachusetts

29 Middle Road, Boxborough, MA 01719

Project Description: The Sheltered Bus Stops for Boxborough/Acton Inter-Town Bus Service Project will support the Towns of Boxborough and Acton in constructing sheltered bus stops along the route of a new inter-town bus route to serve the community. The project will provide increased quality of life and promote access to economic opportunity for this community.

Justification: The project is an appropriate use of taxpayer funds because this new service will directly broaden access to economic opportunity for residents of both towns. This will foster stronger connections between these two communities, and spur economic activity in the two commercial centers. Households throughout both Towns will see improved quality of life, greater access to employment, and the ease of access to commercial services, generating cyclical economic activity. 

Federal Nexus: The project has a Federal nexus because the funding provided is consistent with purposes authorized in 42 U.S.C.5305(a)(2).

Signed Disclosure Agreement