MA Agencies Accepting Funding Applications

Several agencies in Massachusetts have recently announced open solicitation periods for funding programs. In these uncertain times, it is more important than ever for municipalities to consider supplemental resources in order to move forward with important infrastructure initiatives. Some of these programs are listed below. Reach out to BETA with any questions about how to maximize your application’s potential to be considered for funding.

• The Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection (MassDEP) announced that the solicitation period for new drinking water and wastewater projects seeking financing through the State Revolving Fund (SRF) Loan Program is open until August 21, 2020. Projects that address lead in drinking water are a high priority including planning, lead removal, corrosion control capital improvements and water main rehabilitation projects. Additionally, projects that reduce PFAS in drinking water may be eligible to receive additional subsidy in the form of a 0% interest rate loan. The Massachusetts Clean Water Trust will also subsidize funds for systems to plan and implement Asset Management Planning programs. Finally, Stormwater Management Planning projects that help communities to comply with NPDES MS4 permits are also eligible for financing under the SRF.
• In response to the changing needs resulting from COVID-19, The Massachusetts Department of Transportation’s Shared Streets and Spaces quick-launch/quick-build grant program was announced. This program will provide grants as small as $5,000 and as large as $300,000 for cities and towns to quickly implement or expand improvements to sidewalks, curbs, streets, on-street parking spaces and off-street parking lots in support of public health, safe mobility, and renewed commerce in their communities. Applications are currently being accepted on a rolling basis.
• The Municipal Vulnerability Preparedness Program is currently accepting applications for Planning Grants. The MVP Planning Grant offers funding to municipalities that wish to assess their vulnerability to and prepare for climate change impacts, build community resilience, and receive designation from the Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs (EEA) as a Climate Change MVP program municipality. Applications are being accepted through August 7, 2020.
• The MassWorks Infrastructure Program is a competitive grant program that provides the largest and most flexible source of capital funds to municipalities and other eligible public entities primarily for public infrastructure projects that support and accelerate housing production, spur private development, and create jobs throughout the Commonwealth. The program places particular emphasis on the production of multi-family housing in appropriately located walkable, mixed-use districts that result in direct and immediate job creation and/or that support economic development in weak or distressed areas. The application deadline is August 28, 2020.
• The Housing Choice Initiative provides incentives, rewards, technical assistance and targeted legislative reform to encourage municipalities to plan and build the diverse housing stock. Communities that achieve the Housing Choice designation, which lasts for two years, have exclusive access to apply for the Housing Choice Grant Program and receive bonus points or other considerations to certain state grant programs. Housing Choice Communities also receive a 0.5% discount on the interest rate for State Revolving Fund loans. Deadlines for application will be issued soon.