Manchester and Essex learned this week that they will receive $71,125 and $74,103, respectively, when the state distributes approximately $100 million to the state’s 351 cities and towns to support local infrastructure.
The monies come from revenue generated by the Fair Share Amendment, passed in late 2022 when Massachusetts voters approved a 4% tax surcharge on residents with annual incomes in excess of $1 million.
As part of the award, Rockport will receive $ 100,559; Gloucester will receive $ 310,251; Hamilton will receive $ 133,505; and Ipswich will receive $234,667.
Letters have been sent to each municipality certifying that community’s Fair Share apportionment for Fiscal Year 2024.
The Fair Share Amendment funds are being distributed according to two formulas. The first $50 million is being distributed using the traditional Chapter 90 formula based on local road mileage (58.33%), population (20.83%), and employment (20.83%), according to Massachusetts Governor Maura Healey’s office.
The second $50 million is being distributed using a formula based on each municipality’s share of road mileage. Each community is receiving a different total amount according to how the two formulas apportion the money.
In all, 351 cities and towns will receive Fair Share support.
Communities may use the funds for construction, preservation, and improvement projects that create or extend the life of capital facilities. This includes costs for highway projects and pedestrian and bicycle facilities. Projects that are eligible would include installing sidewalks, bicycle lanes, new pavement, sidewalks, retaining walks, crossing signals, and other transportation infrastructure features.
The full list of Fair Share FY 2024 amounts by municipality can be found here.
