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Daily Update 8/4: Vision For Regional Rail

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Tuesday, August 4, 2009

Today: Tuesday, August 4, 2009

 

  • Governor Patrick travels to North Central Massachusetts today to participate in a Creative Economy Tourism Roundtable at Fitchburg State College and meet with the Sentinel & Enterprise editorial board.

 

  • Later this afternoon, Governor Patrick meets with participants in a youth summer jobs program in Leominster.

 

  • Tonight, Governor Patrick holds a town hall meeting at the Groton Public Library Gazebo. Learn more about the Governor’s Summer Town Hall Tour here.

 

In the Press:

 

  • Vision for Regional Rail – Massachusetts has helped lead the way with the other New England states to start bidding for the first region-wide passenger rail agenda, a network that would speed up trains, increase service, and open new commuter lines throughout the region - as well as provide high-speed routes linking New England to Quebec with 110 mile-per-hour trains. Citing the region’s need for an economic boost and transportation reform, officials hope to tap the $8 billion set aside for rail projects to jumpstart more efficient transportation methods. “This plan will not only improve mobility and the environment, but also economic growth and development in New England,’’ said James A. Aloisi Jr., Massachusetts transportation secretary. “I think at the end of the day New England will get its fair share.” Read more in the Boston Globe

 

  • Rebuilding Communities – Across the Commonwealth cities have taken advantage of funds from the Neighborhood Stabilization Program to help revitalize their infrastructure. Fitchburg’s Mayor Lisa Wong said the program “lends a sense of renewal to the property.” Governor Patrick is working to promote continued efforts in rebuilding communities. Read more on how Fitchburg is putting stimulus funds to good use in the Worcester Telegram. Learn more about Massachusetts Recovery here.

 

  • Clean Energy Leader – As part of his overarching Massachusetts Recovery Plan, Governor Patrick has asked the U.S. Department of Energy for more than $100 million in federal stimulus dollars "to jump start an array of innovative clean power and energy efficient projects proposed by Massachusetts companies, municipalities and public agencies statewide.” "Partnering with companies and municipalities to reduce fossil fuel use and decrease greenhouse gas emissions is a key component of our clean energy agenda," said Governor Patrick. "We're hopeful that the Department of Energy will look favorably upon these projects, which promise to lower the bottom line for Bay State companies and cities and towns through investment in innovative energy technology and expanded energy efficiency." Read more in the Daily Item of Lynn 

 

  • Supporting Veterans - Lieutenant Governor Timothy P. Murray appeared on NESN, raising awareness for Massachusetts veterans through a non-profit partnership with the Massachusetts Baseball League entitled “Welcome Back Veterans.” Last month, the Patrick-Murray Administration announced that the Massachusetts Department of Veterans’ Services has been awarded a $300,000 grant from the U.S. Department of Labor to help alleviate the problem of homelessness among Massachusetts veterans. To learn more about the administration’s efforts in supporting local veterans, go to Mass.gov/veterans. Watch coverage at NESN.

 

This Week:

  • On Saturday morning, Governor Patrick attended the Boston Basketball League Championship at Iacono Park.
  • On Saturday, Governor Patrick attended the Steven P. Odom Peace Charity Tournament in Roxbury.
  • This week, Governor Patrick will travel across the Commonwealth, focused on jobs and economic development, and hosting two Town Halls Meetings to listen to constituents’ questions and solutions.