Transportation Bill Earmarks Upgrades to Sharon Traffic Lights, Infrastructure Project

Gov. Deval Patrick called the $1.5 billion transportation bond bill he signed Thursday what the state needs to strengthen its economy and "quality of life for the long term.” 

“Our transportation infrastructure had suffered from years of neglect, so this administration started rebuilding roads, rails and bridges in every corner of our state and creating thousands of jobs," Patrick said after he enacted the bill, which enjoyed the strong support of the Legislature, passing the House by a vote of 150-2 on July 31, the last day of the session.

The bond bill ensures funding for many projects already under way and allots money for the planning of future improvements across the state. 

It also continues funding for the final year of 2008's five-year Accelerated Bridge Program, the largest statewide infrastructure investment program ever, according to the administration. The bridge program has reduced the number of structurally deficient bridges by almost 20 percent, the governor's office said.

In Sharon, the bill has set aside at least $1 million for signalization improvements at the intersection of North Main Street and Hixson Farm Road. Those improvements include the installation of a traffic light and improvements to the roadway and sidewalks.

Also included in the bill is an allotted $2.5 million for the South Sharon Infrastructure Project at the intersection of Old Post Road, South Main Street and Rte. I-95.