Bill > H3252

This bill authorizes the acquisition of land, the development and construction of an underground railroad, civil rights and black heritage museum and cultural center in the city of Springfield. The key provisions include: 1. The need for a 12,000 square foot museum and cultural center to educate the public and serve as a resource center on the historical significance of the Underground Railroad, Civil Rights Movement, and the role of African Americans in the development of Western Massachusetts, in order to enhance regional tourism and attract conferences and conventions. 2. Making funds available for the planning, financing, development, and construction of the new center. 3. Defining the project to include the acquisition, development, construction, furnishing, equipping, and operation of the museum and cultural center, with Mason Square in Springfield as the designated site. 4. Requiring the Department of Capital Planning and Operations to conduct due diligence studies, prepare a report and preliminary specifications for the facility, including design, cost estimates, traffic impact, and criteria for an operator to manage and maintain the center.