Bill > H3636

This bill establishes a new legal framework for creating Transit Improvement Districts (TIDs), which are designated areas within one or more municipalities where local governments can implement enhanced transit services. The legislation allows municipalities to form TIDs through a detailed process that requires developing a comprehensive program plan, holding public meetings, and obtaining approvals from both municipal legislative bodies and property owners. TIDs can generate funding through a flexible fee structure that can be calculated based on various factors like property value, number of employees, parking spaces, or residential units, with provisions for exempting certain property types. The bill mandates that TID program costs be shared among multiple stakeholders: municipalities must provide at least 25% of costs, the Massachusetts Department of Transportation will provide 25% matching funds, service users will pay up to 5% of total costs, and property owners within the TID will contribute a minimum of 25%. Each TID will have a defined duration of 3-6 years, with a mandatory review process before potential renewal, and mechanisms for dissolution if desired by participating property owners. Notably, the legislation includes a requirement that at least 35% of implementation funding be directed toward Environmental Justice areas over a five-year period, ensuring that transit improvements benefit disadvantaged communities.

Transportation and Infrastructure

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/H3636