A message from Secretary Pollack about Capital Conversations Meeting

At MassDOT, we are always working on plans for future investments in the Commonwealth’s transportation system. This year alone, MassDOT and the MBTA together will spend $3 billion on transportation capital projects. But while we like to think that the list of road, bridge, transit, bike and other projects that we develop at MassDOT and the MBTA is a good one, we also know that other people may have different and even better ideas about the best uses of our limited capital funds. That’s why the 16 “Capital Conversations” we are hosting across the state beginning today are so important. Rather than us telling you what transportation projects we think matter most, I want you to tell us what investments would best serve you, your community, and your region.

What we hear at those meetings matters. By this winter, we will be releasing the draft of a five-year capital plan that will lay out priorities for MassDOT and MBTA transportation investments between 2017 and 2021. In the past, MassDOT and the T have put out those documents and then waited for the public to respond. This time around, we are hearing from the public first, incorporating what you tell us into the capital plan before it is released in draft form.

At each meeting, you’ll be able to talk directly to MassDOT and MBTA officials. At one table, you’ll be able to offer your take on road and bridge priorities. At another, make your case for bike or pedestrian improvements. Other stations in the meeting room will be staffed by MassDOT and MBTA staff from bus, rapid transit, and other departments.

Can’t make any of the meetings? No problem. You can now post your ideas and comments online at mass.gov/massdot/capitalconversations or email them to masscip@state.ma.us.

The more comments and suggestions we receive from you and other people who use our roads, rails, bike paths and walkways, the better we can together plan ways to make investments that will provide Massachusetts residents with the transportation system they need and deserve.

Sincerely,
Secretary of Transportation & MassDOT CEO Stephanie Pollack