Kerry, Kennedy: Mass. To Get $438M Stimulus Check

A $438 million federal stimulus check is on its way to Massachusetts.

Senators John Kerry and Edward Kennedy said the state's share of money from the Economic Recovery and Reinvestment Act has been released.

The cash is targeted for the state's aging roads, bridges, schools and other infrastructure projects, including renewable energy initiatives.

Kerry said the money will also help save or create thousands of jobs.

Kerry's office said the $438 million is from an initial round of funding. Gov. Deval Patrick has said the state could receive a total of $1-$2 billion in stimulus infrastructure funds.

The state is currently reviewing thousands of projects to see which are "shovel ready" and will have the greatest long-term impact.