MCV’s November Blog, The Economic Development Bill
MCV's November Blog, The Economic Development Bill
Chuck Anastas | November 6, 2022
The Economic Development Bill, H. 5374, passed by the Legislature last week, includes $100 million (out of a total of $175 million) for communities disenfranchised from the state park system bringing much-needed open space and recreation to historically ignored and underfunded neighborhoods.
The $100 million targeted for new and existing open spaces includes $75 million for environmental justice communities and $25 million for neighborhoods “disproportionally impacted by the 2019 novel coronavirus.” The Legislature has heard from its constituents the importance of open spaces, which played a crucial role in helping all of us survive the impacts of the pandemic. Improving and expanding open spaces and pedestrian and bike trail connections for these neighborhoods must be a priority for our citizens' health, safety, and enjoyment.
However, the bill is a mixed bag in other ways. While the $175 million may be spent rebuilding and expanding our state park system, they are not...