Bill > H3601

This bill authorizes the creation of a new 12,000 square foot Underground Railroad, Civil Rights, and Black Heritage Museum and Cultural Center in the Mason Square area of Springfield, Massachusetts. The bill recognizes the historical significance of the region in the Underground Railroad and Civil Rights Movement, and aims to educate the public about African Americans' contributions to Western Massachusetts. The legislation provides funding for planning, development, and construction of the center, with the goal of enhancing regional tourism, attracting conferences, and addressing historical injustices related to slavery and discrimination. The bill requires the Department of Capital Planning and Operations to conduct due diligence studies within 90 days of the act's effective date, including developing preliminary specifications in consultation with the African-American Museum and Cultural Center of Western Massachusetts and the city of Springfield. The center will include spaces for permanent displays, conferences, art and photographic exhibits, a library, and a small theatre. The project also involves conducting land appraisals, traffic impact studies, and establishing criteria for the center's operation and maintenance, with a proposed parking capacity of up to 200 spaces.

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https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/H3601