Advertisement

Baker Signs $2.4 Billion Measure Aimed At Curbing Climate Change

Charlie Baker (Jesse Costa/WBUR)
Charlie Baker (Jesse Costa/WBUR)

Gov. Charlie Baker says a new environmental infrastructure law will help make Massachusetts more resilient to climate change.

The bill ceremonially signed by the governor in Quincy on Tuesday authorizes the state to borrow up to $2.4 billion for environmental projects in the coming years. About $500 million is earmarked specifically for helping communities prepare for extreme weather events that many scientists believe will become more frequent with global warming.

The plan calls for shoring up seawalls along the coast and inland dams to prevent flooding, while also implementing a statewide climate adaptation plan.

Baker, a Republican seeking a second term in November, says Massachusetts is a "national leader" in addressing the challenges posed by climate changes.

The bill was approved by the Democratic-controlled Legislature last month.

Advertisement

More from WBUR

Listen Live
Close