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From: "Doherty, Sara (SEN)" <Sara.Doherty@masenate.gov> Subject: Cambridge Delegation Hosts “Transportation Finance Forum: Supporting a 21st Century Economy” March 26th 5:30-7:30pm Cambridge Public Library Date: March 15, 2013 3:42:47 PM EDT

Dear Jeffrey & the Richdale Ave Neighborhood Association,

The Cambridge delegation invites you to join them at an upcoming “Transportation Finance Forum: Supporting a 21stCentury Economy” on March 26th from 5:30-7:30 pm at the Cambridge Public Library (449 Broadway). Massachusetts Department of Transportation Secretary Richard Davey will present “The Way Forward: A 21st Century Transportation Plan” followed by a discussion with representatives from MAPC, T4MA, local businesses and elected officials.

The forum is co-hosted by Senator DiDomenico, Senator Jehlen, Senator Petruccelli, Representative Marjorie Decker, Representative Jonathan Hecht, Representative Dave Rogers, Representative Timothy Toomey, the Cambridge Chamber of Commerce, Metropolitan Area Planning Council (MAPC) and Transportation for Massachusetts (T4MA). Clearly this issue is at the top of everyone’s agenda this year. With crumbling roads and bridges, severely outdated MBTA vehicles, and the specter of further cuts to transit service, stakeholders across the spectrum agree that addressing the transportation funding gap can’t wait any longer. The disrepair of our transportation infrastructure is endangering future economic growth. Every year CNBC ranks “America’s Top States for Business.” From 2011 to 2012, Massachusetts fell from 6thoverall to 28th. While Massachusetts remains among the top ranked states in the categories of Education, Technology & Innovation, Access to Capitol, and Quality of Life, the state’s ranking in the category of Infrastructure & Transportation fell from 29th to a dismal 45th. Our goal is to inform the community of current proposals for how to fix the multi-billion dollar problem in bringing the state’s transportation system into a state of good repair. The forum will focus on the importance of transportation to residents and businesses alike, as a part of the statewide conversation. The purpose is to learn from experts about what options are on the table to avoid fare hikes and service cuts, and to have a productive discussion about how to move forward in a way that benefits everyone.

I hope that you will be able to join us. Please help out by spreading the word! You can call 617-722-1578 or email Sara Doherty at sara.doherty@masenate.gov in Senator Jehlen’s office if you have any questions.

Thanks,

Sara Doherty Communications Director Office of Senator Patricia Jehlen State House, Room 513 Boston, MA 02133 (617) 722-1578