Bill > H3628

This bill establishes a working group led by the Massachusetts Department of Transportation and the Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs to study and evaluate unpaved roads (dirt and gravel roads) and low volume roads (LVRs) in the state. The working group, composed of representatives from various state agencies, associations, and organizations, will undertake several key tasks: creating a comprehensive database of unpaved and low volume roads, analyzing road mileage across municipalities and counties, collecting maintenance cost data for counties with over 20% unpaved road miles, examining potential climate change impacts on road maintenance, identifying existing and potential funding streams, reviewing existing studies, and exploring the feasibility of developing a condition rating system and statewide standards for unpaved roads. The group will also research national best practices for road maintenance. The working group is required to hold its first meeting by January 1, 2026, and must submit its findings to various legislative bodies by June 30, 2026, providing a comprehensive analysis to help improve the maintenance and management of these road types across Massachusetts.

Budget and Finance, Transportation and Infrastructure

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/H3628