Massachusetts Communities Benefit from $18M in Gaming Commission Grants

The Massachusetts Gaming Commission (MGC) has just awarded over $18 million worth of grants from the Community Mitigation Fund (CMF) all throughout several municipalities and eligible entities in the state. This funding, which is for fiscal year 2025, aims to offset any negative effects that may come with running a casino as well as improve community infrastructure and services.

Infrastructure Improvements and Public Safety Boosted by CMF Grants

Since its establishment in 2015 under the Expanded Gaming Act, CMF has given about $56.7 million worth of grants. These funds are vital for assisting host communities and surrounding areas with costs associated with casino construction and operation as well as supporting various community projects. This year’s MGC grant will fund projects in cities such as Everett, Boston, Chelsea and Lynn.

Everett is one particular city that benefits greatly from this initiative receiving a total of $2,403,400, which would be used on pedestrian/transit improvements at Everett Square and traffic signal enhancements throughout the town. 

Additionally, Lower Mystic Transportation Management Association will get 300,000 out of this same fund while public safety initiatives will take home $378,600 – all aimed at making life better for the local communities through investment into infrastructure.

West Springfield was another notable recipient, securing $299,800 to support police, fire/EMS, and dispatch services, as well as fire department training and police training. Similarly, Wilbraham was awarded $309,100 for road safety equipment and improvements at the Springfield and Stony Hill intersection. 

Regional Projects Receive Over $1M in CMF Grants

Aside from municipal grants, there were also considerable amounts of money given to regional projects. This consisted of $75,000 for casino-related personnel costs in Hampden County; another $400,000 was given to the Western Massachusetts Recovery and Wellness Center at the Hampden County Sheriff’s Office, while Holyoke Community College received an additional $448,750 toward their workforce development initiatives.

Public safety continues to be one of MGC’s top priorities hence it gave the Suffolk County District Attorney’s Office an amount worth $106 900 so that it can combat human trafficking effectively. With this grant, it is evident that the Commission is taking into consideration critical social issues affecting people’s lives and working toward their resolution besides ensuring residents’ welfare.These grants reflect the MGC’s commitment to ensuring maximum benefits from legalized gambling while addressing any negative impacts associated with it.

By investing in infrastructure, public safety, workforce development, and social services, these grants aim to create a positive and lasting impact on communities throughout Massachusetts. The MGC’s continued support through the CMF ensures that the state’s municipalities can thrive and adapt to the evolving landscape of legalized gambling.