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 20 projects in fiscal year 2027. 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.
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[Subcommittee On Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug Administration, and Related Agencies]
Ashby Public Works Fleet Upgrade
Amount Requested: $375,000
Recipient:
Town of Ashby, Massachusetts
895 Main Street, Ashby, MA 01431
Project Description: The Ashby Public Works Fleet Upgrade Project will support critical upgrades to the Town’s aging fleet of public works vehicles and related equipment. Much of the Town’s current equipment is more than two decades old and has exceeded its expected service life. This has led to increasing maintenance costs and potential safety concerns for staff and the public. Funding through this program would allow Ashby to begin modernizing its fleet in a strategic and cost-effective way. Replacing and upgrading key fleet assets will help ensure that DPW personnel have reliable, safe equipment to perform essential municipal services. These upgrades will support year-round operations, including snow and ice control, roadway maintenance, and other routine infrastructure work necessary to maintain safe travel conditions for residents and visitors. Reliable equipment is particularly important in a rural community like Ashby, where DPW staff are responsible for maintaining local roads that serve as critical connections for residents to economic opportunities such as work, school, and local businesses.
Justification: This project is a valuable use of taxpayer funding because it addresses necessary infrastructure support while helping the Town manage long-term costs. Investing in modern, upgraded equipment will strengthen the Town’s ability to consistently maintain local infrastructure and respond to seasonal demands. Public works vehicles and equipment play a vital role in maintaining passable roads during winter weather, completing critical roadway maintenance, and supporting other day-to-day operational needs. Investing in modern, dependable equipment will improve operational reliability and help ensure that DPW staff can safely and efficiently perform the work required to respond to routine and unexpected service needs.
Federal Nexus: The project has a Federal nexus because the funding provided is consistent with purposes authorized in Section 306 of the Consolidated Farm and Rural Development Act, 7 U.S. Code section 1926(a).
Signed Disclosure Agreement
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[Subcommittee On Transportation, Housing And Urban Development, And Related Agencies]
Harvard Road Improvement Project
Amount Requested: $500,000
Recipient:
Town of Ayer, Massachusetts
1 Main Street, Ayer, MA 01432
Project Description: The Harvard Road Improvement Project will allow the Town of Ayer to enhance safe, accessible intermodal travel while strengthening regional connectivity and driving economic activity. The project targets the Harvard Road corridor between Ayer’s Rotary and the Harvard town line. Requested funds will support the installation of new sidewalks and bike lanes to improve pedestrian and cyclist access, as well as roadway striping to improve navigation through the rotary. Once completed, this project will establish a continuous 1.25-mile connection from Downtown Ayer to the Town of Harvard, closing this critical gap in pedestrian and cyclist infrastructure along a high-traffic corridor.
Justification: This project is a valuable use of taxpayer funds because it leverages and complements planned regional investments. The Town of Harvard, in coordination with the Massachusetts Department of Transportation, is advancing the Ayer Road Improvement Project, scheduled for 2027 construction, which will extend multimodal access from the town line to Route 2. Completing Ayer’s portion ensures that these public investments function as a unified corridor rather than isolated segments, maximizing the return on taxpayer dollars and delivering a fully connected regional transportation link.
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
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[Subcommittee On Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug Administration, and Related Agencies]
Public Safety & Library Drinking Water Infrastructure Replacement Project
Amount Requested: $1,218,750
Recipient:
Town of Bolton, Massachusetts
663 Main Street, Bolton MA 01740
Project Description: The Bolton Public Safety Drinking Water Infrastructure Project will fund the permanent replacement and reconfiguration of a compromised public water supply serving critical municipal facilities. The current system relies on a single well to supply both the Bolton Public Safety Building (home to Police, Fire, and regional ALS/EMS services) and the Public Library. A structural failure in the well led to bacteriological contamination, rendering the water non-potable and prompting a mandatory corrective action order from the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection (MassDEP).
Justification: This project represents a valuable use of taxpayer funds by addressing a state-mandated need while limiting the financial burden on local residents and protecting essential public safety operations. Once completed, this project will not only address the immediate need of restoring safe drinking water for these facilities, it will also reduce the risk of more costly emergency failures in the future. By investing in a long-term solution, the Town will ensure compliance, improve system dependability, and maintain essential services for residents of Bolton and the surrounding area.
Federal Nexus: The project has a Federal nexus because the funding provided is consistent with purposes authorized in Section 306 of the Consolidated Farm and Rural Development Act, 7 U.S. Code section 1926(a)(2).
Signed Disclosure Agreement
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[Subcommittee On Transportation, Housing And Urban Development, And Related Agencies]
Assabet River Multi-Use Bridge Project
Amount Requested: $1,000,000
Recipient:
Town of Concord, Massachusetts
22 Monument Square, Concord, MA 01742
Project Description: The Assabet River Multi-Use Bridge Project will construct a shared-use path and multi-modal bridge over the Assabet River in West Concord. This bridge will create a vital connection between the West Concord Village business district, the MBTA commuter rail station, the Bruce Freeman Rail Trail, and major employment centers along Baker Avenue and Baker Avenue Extension. Currently, the river separates these areas, leaving the Main Street Bridge as the only nearby crossing and forcing pedestrians and cyclists to travel over a half mile out of the way to access these vital economic opportunities.
Justification: This project is a valuable use of taxpayer funds because it addresses a clear infrastructure gap with a practical, cost-effective solution that improves safety, access, and mobility. The bridge will provide a direct route for workers, residents, and visitors, improving access to jobs, transit, and local businesses. It will also enhance access to the Assabet River corridor and support ongoing economic development, including an adjacent residential development. By improving multimodal connectivity and safety, this investment delivers lasting transportation and economic benefits to the community and region.
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
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[Subcommittee On Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug Administration, and Related Agencies]
Dunstable Fire Station Improvement Project
Amount Requested: $1,125,000
Recipient:
Town of Dunstable, Massachusetts
511 Main Street, Dunstable, MA 01827
Project Description: The Dunstable Fire Station Improvement Project will support targeted facility upgrades to enhance emergency response capability, operational capacity, and firefighter health and safety. The existing station, originally built in 1954, requires improvements to exterior walls and aging structural elements to meet current safety and accessibility standards. In addition, the project will increase the capacity of the station to support 24-hour firefighter staffing. The current layout does not accommodate overnight personnel, limiting the Department’s ability to maintain continuous on-site coverage. The proposed project will upgrade the facility to include firefighter living quarters, allowing firefighters to remain at the station and respond more quickly to emergencies. The project also includes enhancements to support training and modern safety practices.
Justification: This project is a valuable use of taxpayer funds because it invests in essential public safety infrastructure while managing long-term costs for the Town. Proactive, preventive maintenance and modernization of the facility will extend the life of critical public safety infrastructure before emergency repairs are required as the result of structural failures. Improvements will address aging building components, enhance safety and accessibility, and ensure the station can properly support modern apparatus and specialized equipment. The project will also incorporate features that reduce firefighter exposure to hazardous contaminants, supporting long-term firefighter health and safety. Supporting these improvements is a practical and forward-thinking use of taxpayer funds that prioritizes public safety, fiscal responsibility, and the long-term resilience of the Department and the community they serve.
Federal Nexus: The project has a Federal nexus because the funding provided is consistent with purposes authorized in Section 306 of the Consolidated Farm and Rural Development Act, 7 U.S. Code section 1926(a).
Signed Disclosure Agreement
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[ Subcommittee on Interior, Environment, and Related Agencies]
Fitchburg Combined Sewer Separation Project
Amount Requested: $2,500,000
Recipient:
Town of Fitchburg, Massachusetts
718 Main Street, Fitchburg, MA 01420
Project Description: This requested funding will support the completion of the next phase of the City of Fitchburg’s sewer separation project. In 2021, the City identified three problematic sites in need of separation. They have completed the separation project at one site and construction is underway for another. This Fitchburg Combined Sewer Separation Project is expected to begin construction later this year and will be completed prior to the end of 2027, with post-construction monitoring and sampling concluding prior to the end of 2028. Overall, the project includes the separation of approximately 27,600 LF of combined sewers through the installation of 10,850 LF of new PVC sewers, 1,450 LF of new PVC drains, and 42,350 LF of new HDPE drains. The project also includes trenchless rehabilitation to repair approximately 48,100 LF of sewers. Drains in the project area were designed to function properly during the 2070 10-year, 24-hour storm event.
Justification: This project is a valuable use of taxpayer funds because it not only addresses a public health risk, it also unlocks opportunities for future development. Sewer separation will directly contribute to improving local water quality and mitigating harmful environmental impacts in the North Nashua River. Keeping the Nashua River clean offers public health benefits for residents of Fitchburg and the many communities throughout Massachusetts and New Hampshire that are along the river. Separating the sewer system not only prevents CSO discharges from contaminating the water, it also means that the sewer system can effectively maintain capacity levels during severe storms. This allows for the capacity necessary to support new developments in Fitchburg, unlocking future economic opportunities for the City and its residents. Securing federal funding for this project will also lessen the cost burden of the sewer separation infrastructure on the rate payers.
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
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[Subcommittee On Transportation, Housing And Urban Development, And Related Agencies]
Lunenburg Street Intersection Improvement Project
Amount Requested: $1,000,000
Recipient:
Town of Fitchburg, Massachusetts
718 Main Street, Fitchburg, MA 01420
Project Description: The Lunenburg Street Intersection Improvement Project will support the design and construction of a new traffic signal system and related safety upgrades at a high-crash intersection in the City of Fitchburg. This intersection, located at the municipally controlled end of State Route 2A, has experienced 88 crashes over the past three years, including 21 angle crashes. This crash data places it among the top 5% of crash-prone intersections in the region and far exceeds the thresholds for signal warrants.
Justification: This project is a valuable use of taxpayer funds because it directly addresses a documented public safety hazard while also supporting economic activity. Lunenburg Street and Boutelle Street serve as major east-west connectors within Fitchburg, linking downtown areas, commercial centers, and neighboring communities. By improving traffic flow, reducing crash-related delays, and enhancing pedestrian access, the project will increase reliability for commuters, customers, and deliveries. These improvements support local businesses and facilitate safe, efficient travel, fostering economic vitality in the surrounding neighborhoods.
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
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[Subcommittee On Transportation, Housing And Urban Development, And Related Agencies]
Pleasant Street Improvement Project
Amount Requested: $1,800,000
Recipient:
Town of Gardner, Massachusetts
95 Pleasant Street, Gardner, MA 01440
Project Description: The Pleasant Street Improvement Project will deliver critical streetscape and infrastructure upgrades along a key downtown corridor in Gardner, supporting the long-term economic vitality of the City’s business district. As a central hub for local commerce, Pleasant Street is home to numerous small businesses that rely on safe and accessible conditions to draw customers. The City is also advancing a major redevelopment effort that will bring over 200 new housing units to the downtown area. This project includes modern lighting upgrades, underground utility relocation, and improvements to pedestrian, cyclist, and vehicular infrastructure. Together, these infrastructure enhancements will make it easier for residents and visitors to access businesses while increasing foot traffic and economic activity.
Justification: This project is a valuable use of taxpayer funds because it delivers both immediate infrastructure benefits and long-term economic returns. By relocating overhead utilities underground, the project will improve system reliability and resilience during severe weather, reducing maintenance costs and service disruptions. At the same time, enhanced lighting and streetscape improvements will increase public safety, attract more foot traffic, and create a more inviting environment for customers and investors. As part of a larger, phased revitalization strategy, this investment helps leverage prior and future public and private investments, ensuring that taxpayer dollars contribute to sustained economic growth, business development, and a stronger downtown economy.
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
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[Subcommittee on Interior, Environment, and Related Agencies]
Locke Street Sewer Separation Project
Amount Requested: $3,000,000
Recipient:
City of Haverhill, Massachusetts
4 Summer Street, Haverhill, MA 01830
Project Description: The Locke Street Sewer Separation Project will separate approximately 27,000 linear feet (LF) of combined sewers in the Locke Street area of Haverhill, Massachusetts. The project consists of installing new storm drainage pipes, disconnecting catch basins from the sanitary sewer and connecting them to the separate storm sewer, and rehabilitating existing sewers and manholes.
Justification: This project is a valuable use of taxpayer funds because it not only addresses a public health risk, it also unlocks opportunities for future development. Keeping the Merrimack River clean offers public health benefits for residents of Haverhill and the many communities throughout Massachusetts and New Hampshire that are along the Merrimack River. Separating the sewer system not only prevents CSO discharges from contaminating the water, it also means that the sewer system can effectively maintain capacity levels during severe storms. This allows for the capacity necessary to support new developments in Haverhill, unlocking future economic opportunities for the City and its residents.
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
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[Subcommittee On Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug Administration, and Related Agencies]
Lancaster Fire Department Ambulance Upgrades
Amount Requested: $192,500
Recipient:
Town of Lancaster, Massachusetts
701 Main Street, Suite 1, Lancaster, MA 01523
Project Description: The Lancaster Fire Department Ambulance Upgrades Project will fund essential equipment needed to enhance the Department’s emergency medical response capabilities. Currently, the Department provides Basic Life Support (BLS) services and is seeking to expand to Advanced Life Support (ALS) to better meet the needs of the community. Transitioning to ALS requires significant investment in specialized equipment, which is not feasible within the Town’s limited budget. This project will support the acquisition of critical equipment needed to outfit ambulances for ALS-level care. These upgrades include cardiac monitoring devices, ventilation equipment, medications, and other necessary medical tools and supplies for the Department’s frontline vehicles. Providing this level of equipment will enable more advanced, time-sensitive care to be delivered in the field. Investing in these upgrades will strengthen emergency response capabilities, improve patient outcomes, and enhance overall public safety. For a rural community like Lancaster, where access to advanced medical care may require longer transport times, the ability to deliver higher-level care at the scene is especially important. This project represents a strategic investment in the health and safety of residents and supports the Department’s mission to provide high-quality emergency services.
Justification: This project is a valuable use of taxpayer funds. By investing in modern EMS equipment, the Town can improve emergency response effectiveness, reduce reliance on outside resources, and enhance patient outcomes during critical incidents. Proactively funding these upgrades also helps avoid delays in care that can result in more severe health consequences and higher downstream costs. Overall, this investment will strengthen Lancaster’s emergency medical infrastructure, ensure more equitable access to advanced care for a rural population, and support the long-term sustainability of essential public safety services.
Federal Nexus: The project has a Federal nexus because the funding provided is consistent with purposes authorized in Section 306 of the Consolidated Farm and Rural Development Act, 7 U.S. Code section 1926(a).
Signed Disclosure Agreement
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[Subcommittee On Transportation, Housing And Urban Development, And Related Agencies]
Lawrence Priority Bridge Improvement Project
Amount Requested: $2,400,000
Recipient:
City of Lawrence, Massachusetts
200 Common Street, Lawrence, MA 01840
Project Description: The Lawrence Priority Bridge Improvement Project will fund critical repairs and upgrades to the Joseph W. Casey Memorial Bridge and the Daisy Street Bridge, which together carry over 23,500 vehicles daily and serve as key corridors for residents, workers, and businesses. Both structures require urgent rehabilitation to ensure continued safety, reliability, and access. Requested funds will address deteriorating infrastructure, including expansion joints, bridge decks, and sidewalks on the Casey Bridge, where exposed, rusting rebar and weakened floor beams pose structural risks. On the Daisy Street Bridge, funding will support ADA-compliant sidewalk replacement, deck repairs, and restoration of concrete-encased steel beams to halt water infiltration and Alkali-Silica Reaction (ASR), which is actively degrading the structure.
Justification: This project is a valuable use of taxpayer funds because it protects critical infrastructure that directly supports economic activity and growth. The bridges provide primary access to eight major redevelopment sites, including South Canal, the Merrimack Paper Site, and Berkley Mills, representing over 1,000 housing units and expanding commercial and biotech uses. Failure to act would risk severe disruptions to this growing economic corridor and limit access to a regional job market of more than 2 million positions.The project also advances safety and equity. Nearly 29% of residents rely on walking or public transit, and many households lack access to a vehicle. Improved sidewalks and safer crossings will enhance access to the Lawrence Commuter Rail Station, bus routes, schools, and employment centers. Overall, this investment safeguards critical infrastructure, reduces long-term costs, and supports economic opportunity for residents and businesses.
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]
Appleton Street Corridor Improvement Project
Amount Requested: $3,000,000
Recipient:
Town of Lowell, Massachusetts
375 Merrimack Street Lowell, MA 01852
Project Description: The Appleton Street Corridor Improvement Project is a targeted streetscape improvement initiative that will deliver both safety and economic benefits to the City of Lowell. The project focuses on an underdeveloped corridor within a designated urban renewal area, improving connectivity at a key entry point to the City’s central business district. Planned streetscape enhancements will complement recent zoning changes designed to encourage new development, helping transform a deteriorated stretch of roadway into a safer, more walkable, and investment-ready corridor.
Justification: This project is a valuable use of taxpayer funds because it builds on existing public investments and unlocks new economic potential in a designated urban renewal area. By coordinating with state-funded intersection upgrades and leveraging recently adopted zoning changes, the project ensures that public dollars are used efficiently to catalyze private investment, increase property values, and support business growth. Improved sidewalks, crossings, and streetscape features will increase foot traffic, improve access to local businesses, and make the corridor more attractive for redevelopment.
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]
Pawtucket Street Corridor Improvement Project
Amount Requested: $3,000,000
Recipient:
Town of Lowell, Massachusetts
375 Merrimack Street, Lowell MA 01852
Project Description: The Pawtucket Street Corridor Improvement Project will reconstruct a deteriorated but critically important roadway connecting the University of Massachusetts Lowell’s (UML’s) campuses, downtown Lowell, and the future Lowell Innovation Network Corridor (LINC) redevelopment district.
J ustification: This project is a valuable use of taxpayer funds because it delivers both immediate infrastructure improvements and long-term economic benefits. By strengthening connections between major employment, education, and commercial centers, the project will support local businesses, improve access to jobs and services, and increase foot traffic in key areas of the city. It also complements major public and private investments, including the LINC redevelopment initiative, helping to unlock additional economic activity, attract private investment, and increase property values along the corridor.
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]
West Main Street Intersection Improvement Plan
Amount Requested: $1,000,000
Recipient:
Town of Marlborough, Massachusetts
140 Main Street, Marlborough, MA 01752
Project Description: The West Main Street Intersection Improvement Project will support the City of Marlborough in implementing strategic upgrades to a key downtown intersection at South Street/Pleasant Street and West Main Street (Route 20). This high-volume gateway experiences chronic congestion and frequent accidents, limiting safe access to downtown businesses and constraining economic growth. Improvements are essential to enhance safety, reduce traffic delays, and unlock the full potential of the City’s ongoing downtown revitalization efforts.
Justification: This project is a valuable use of taxpayer funds because it directly addresses documented Level F conditions, reducing crashes and easing congestion while enhancing accessibility for residents, workers, and visitors. Planned improvements—including optimized signal timing, added turn lanes, realigned curb radii, and upgraded pedestrian crossings—will resolve existing deficiencies and prepare the intersection for increased traffic from ongoing development. By improving safety, mobility, and connectivity, the project supports private investment, strengthens economic activity, and maximizes the impact of prior public investments in downtown infrastructure.
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 Interior, Environment And Related Agencies]
Arlington Neighborhood Clean Water Infrastructure Improvement Project
Amount Requested: $3,000,000
Recipient:
Town of Methuen, Massachusetts
41 Pleasant Street, Methuen, MA 01844
Project Description: The Arlington Neighborhood Sewer Separation Project in Methuen will separate the existing combined sewer and stormwater systems to reduce the frequency and volume of combined sewer overflows (CSOs) and improve overall system performance. The project includes the installation of new stormwater drainage infrastructure, disconnection of catch basins from the sanitary sewer system, as well as rehabilitation and optimization of existing sewer assets.
Justification: This project is a valuable use of taxpayer funds because it delivers measurable public health, environmental, and economic benefits. Sewer separation will directly improve water quality in the Merrimack River by preventing the discharge of untreated sewage, nutrients, and pollutants, protecting Methuen residents and the millions of people across Massachusetts and New Hampshire who rely on the river for recreation and as a drinking water source. In addition, replacing aging water mains and non-copper service lines will ensure safe, reliable drinking water and reduce the risk of contaminants entering the system.
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]
Semiconductor and Microelectronics Manufacturing Training Program
Amount Requested: $1,500,000
Recipient:
Middlesex Community College
33 Kearney Square, Lowell, MA 01852
Project Description: The Semiconductor and Microelectronics Manufacturing Training Program will support Middlesex Community College (MCC) as it builds out of a new training program to support skilled workforce development across the Greater Lowell service area. The requested funds would allow MCC to retrofit existing classroom spaces to support new training labs including a clean lab as well space for hands-on skills training. The labs would house a training program for electromechanical assembly, including wire bonding, micro-soldering, and hand-soldering skills. These funds would also support acquisition and installation of equipment such as microscopes, oscilloscopes, soldering stations and equipment, self-contained hoods, computer testing stations, and electronics testing equipment.
Justification: This project is a valuable use of taxpayer funds because it creates a direct pathway to gainful employment. MCC will partner with MassHire career counselors to support participants from enrollment through job placement, with a goal of at least 70% employment after completion. The program will also be structured to qualify for Section 30 (Training Opportunities Program), allowing unemployed individuals to receive benefits while completing full-time training, reducing financial barriers and accelerating workforce reentry.
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]
Career and Technical Education Workforce Training Facility
Amount Requested: $3,000,000
Recipient:
Northern Essex Community College
100 Elliott Street, Haverhill, MA 01830
Project Description: The Career and Technical Education Workforce Training Facility at Northern Essex Community College (NECC) will expand access to career and technical education to support regional workforce development and drive economic growth. This innovative model will meet both student demand for hands-on training and regional industry demand for a skilled, technical workforce. By creating a local pipeline of trained workers to good-paying, in-demand careers, the project will fuel business growth, increase regional competitiveness, and strengthen long term vitality of the Merrimack Valley economy.
Justification: This project is a valuable use of taxpayer funds because it directly addresses persistent skill gaps, supports local businesses, and expands access to high-demand careers. Program participants, including high school students and adult learners, will gain college credits and industry-recognized credentials enabling them to continue their education or enter the workforce immediately. By reducing barriers to training, supporting apprenticeships and upskilling opportunities, and building a scalable model for other community colleges, this investment will deliver long-term economic returns, strengthen regional competitiveness, and ensure a more resilient workforce.
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 Interior, Environment, and Related Agencies ]
Pepperell Water Treatment Project
Amount Requested: $1,500,000
Recipient:
Town of Pepperell, Massachusetts
1 Main Street, Pepperell, MA 01463
Project Description: The Pepperell Safe Drinking Water Project addresses PFAS contamination in the Town’s drinking water and advances a regional solution benefiting the neighboring communities of Groton and Dunstable. As the second phase of a coordinated, regional response, this project will ensure long-term access to clean, safe, and reliable drinking water for all three communities.
Justification: The project is an appropriate use of taxpayer funds because it directly addresses a documented public health risk in three communities. PFAS levels detected in Pepperell and Groton meet or exceed current state standards, posing long-term health concerns if left unaddressed. Investment in this project will deliver immediate and lasting benefits by removing these contaminants and restoring safe drinking water access. Moreover, a regional approach maximizes taxpayer value by reducing duplication of infrastructure, lowering long-term operational costs, and increasing system resilience. Without external funding, these small communities lack the financial capacity to independently implement effective treatment solutions. This investment ensures access to safe drinking water while leveraging prior state funding and local commitments for maximum return.
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]
Lowell Innovation Network Corridor Phase 0
Amount Requested: $2,000,000
Recipient:
University of Massachusetts Lowell
220 Pawtucket Street, Lowell, MA 01854
Project Description: The Lowell Innovation Network Corridor (LINC) Phase 0 at the University of Massachusetts Lowell (UMass Lowell) is part of a transformative initiative to establish a mixed-use innovation corridor, connecting the University, industry partners, entrepreneurs, and the Lowell community. Requested funds will be used to renovate and retrofit vacant office space at an existing University-owned facility, the Wannalancit Mills, to support early corporate co-location. Funding will support the design, construction, and equipment necessary to create modern research and laboratory space, accelerating private investment and job creation ahead of planned new construction within LINC.
Justification: This project is a valuable use of taxpayer dollars because it leverages public funds to catalyze private-sector growth, generate high-quality jobs, and accelerate the revitalization of Lowell. By supporting early improvements and corporate engagement, this project sets the stage for major economic returns, strengthens community infrastructure, and positions Lowell as a thriving hub for innovation, entrepreneurship, and inclusive economic opportunity.
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 Transportation, Housing And Urban Development, And Related Agencies]
Pleasant Street/ Patten Road Sidewalk Connection Project
Amount Requested: $950,000
Recipient:
Town of Westford, Massachusetts
55 Main Street, Westford, MA 01886
Project Description: The Pleasant Street / Patten Road Sidewalk Connection Project will support the construction of approximately 2,500 linear feet of new sidewalk along Pleasant Street (State Route 225) and Patten Road in the Town of Westford. This will create a safe, continuous pedestrian link between the Cameron Senior Center, Westford Academy, and small businesses on Prescott Street. By eliminating a significant gap in the Town’s pedestrian infrastructure, the project will improve access to key community destinations and strengthen economic connectivity within the Forge Village area.
Justification: This project is a valuable use of taxpayer funds because it delivers both immediate safety benefits and long-term economic returns. By improving pedestrian access to schools, community facilities, and local businesses, the project will increase foot traffic, strengthen connections within the Forge Village area, and support small business activity. It also leverages prior local investment, as design funding has already been approved and the project is implementation-ready, ensuring that federal funds can be used efficiently and without delay. By reducing the need for costly future retrofits and encouraging walkable, connected development patterns, the project represents a cost-effective investment with lasting community and economic benefits.
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
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