BOSTON (AP) - The state Transportation Department is making $40 million available to fix potholes in roads ravaged by the harsh winter, the agency announced Wednesday.
“We experienced an extraordinary winter season that caused damage to our roads, bridges, and vehicles well beyond the typical year,” state Transportation Secretary Richard Davey said. “This one-time, targeted program will speed repair and recovery and maintain safe travel for motorists.”
The program will provide $30 million to cities and towns, and $10 million for state-maintained roads, including interstate highways.
Many municipalities have already been hit hard by snow removal costs, making the pothole money even more important, Highway Division Administrator Frank DePaola said.
The funds must be spent by September or returned.
The state will determine funding levels for municipalities based on population and miles of roadway. Under the formula, Boston is expected to get almost $2.2 million, Cambridge more than $385,000 and Newton nearly $349,000. At the other end of the scale, Winthrop and Dover are expected to get about $42,000.
The state Transportation Department has received about 1,700 pothole complaints already and has spent more than $800,000 filling them. Boston has filled more than 10,000 potholes since January
“Communities will put these funds to immediate use rebuilding and repairing roads in every corner of Massachusetts, which will save money, help our economy and improve public safety,” said Geoffrey Beckwith, executive director of the Massachusetts Municipal Association.
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