Rep. Cataldo, Rep. Sena, and Sen. Eldridge Congratulate the Town of Acton on Securing Over $2.3 Million in State Grants
These grants will support housing, infrastructure, and economic revitalization efforts.
Acton, MA – State Senator Jamie Eldridge (D-Marlborough), State Representative Simon Cataldo (D-Concord), and State Representative Danillo Sena (D-Acton) are thrilled to announce that through the FY26 round of the Community One Stop for Growth, the Town of Acton has been awarded more than $2.3 million in state funding to support housing infrastructure, transportation improvements, and economic revitalization through public art. The grants come from three separate Massachusetts programs: the HousingWorks Infrastructure Program, the MBTA Community Catalyst Fund, and the MA Vacant Storefront Program.
Acton has been awarded $1,750,000 through the HousingWorks Infrastructure Program to support critical infrastructure improvements tied to the Town’s efforts to expand housing under the MBTA Communities Law. This funding will enable the construction of an influent equalization tank at the Middle Fort Wastewater Treatment Facility. The 300,000-gallon covered aboveground tank is a key component required by the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection (MassDEP) to accommodate increased wastewater flow from Rivage at Acton, a new multifamily development within the Town’s MBTA Communities District.
“The installation of new wastewater infrastructure is vital to the continued growth and success of the Powdermill Road Corridor, a unique partnership between Acton and Maynard, including the multifamily housing development Rivage that is under construction along the Assabet River.” said State Senator Eldridge (D-Marlborough). “By enhancing its water infrastructure, Acton is demonstrating a commitment to delivering development that will not only increase local revenues, but also ensure that our water infrastructure, led by the gold standard Acton Water District, continues to deliver clean water to residents and businesses."
“New wastewater infrastructure is vital to the Powdermill Rd area, especially with the recent development of new multifamily housing.” said State Representative Sena (D-Acton).
“This investment in Acton’s wastewater infrastructure represents the kind of forward-thinking planning that ensures our communities can grow responsibly,” said State Representative Simon Cataldo (D-Concord). “By supporting both housing expansion and environmental stewardship, Acton is modeling how towns can meet the needs of new residents while protecting vital local resources.”
All three elected officials noted their thankfulness to EOHLC Secretary Edward Augustus, Town Manager John Mangiaratti, and the Acton Select Board for their support of this project.
Acton received $500,000 to advance the design of the Central Street Complete Streets project. The initiative aims to improve pedestrian and bicycle safety between West Acton Village, South Acton Village, and the South Acton MBTA Station. This grant will be used for new sidewalks, a shared-use path, ADA-compliant ramps, intersection realignments, crossing enhancements, and traffic calming measures. The funds will also help design the high-priority segment from Main Street to Martin Street, positioning the Town for future construction and development within the MBTA Communities Overlay District.
“Fostering the expansion of walkable, bikeable and accessible streets is important to creating more sustainable and vibrant communities.” said State Senator Eldridge (D-Marlborough).
“Acton is leading the way on making our streets safer, greener, and suited for all to enjoy in town.”
“Acton is a leader in sustainability, and expanding access to walkable and bikeable streets is vital to these efforts.” said State Representative Sena (D-Acton).
“Complete Streets projects like this one in Acton don’t just make travel safer—they knit our communities together,” said State Representative Cataldo (D-Concord). “This funding will help connect residents to schools, businesses, and transit.”
All three elected officials noted their thanks to Secretary of Transportation Monica Tibbits-Nutt, Town Manager John Mangiaratti, and the Acton Select Board for making this West Acton project a reality.
Acton has also received $50,000 through the Massachusetts Vacant Storefront Program to launch One Mile Artfronts, an innovative initiative to activate vacant storefronts along Great Road. The project will install murals, sculptures, and other public art—many accessibly aligned with the Bruce Freeman Rail Trail—to draw visitors, support local artists, and transform empty commercial spaces into works of art.
“The creation of public art in Acton will boost tourism, recreation and add to the draw and charm of the town and the Bruce Freeman Rail Trail.” said State Senator Eldridge (D-Marlborough). “Supporting local businesses and artists through art projects builds a sense of community and brings joy to all.”
“Public Art is an important part of the cultural makeup of our towns, and this grant will help add beautiful art while supporting local businesses and artists.” said State Representative Sena (D-Acton).
“Public art enables us to reimagine our shared spaces and bring people together,” said State Representative Cataldo (D-Concord). “The One Mile Artfronts project will highlight local creativity, draw visitors, and breathe new life into Acton’s commercial areas—showcasing how art and economic vitality go hand in hand.”
All three elected officials made clear their gratitude to Secretary of Economic Development Eric Paley, Town Manager John Mangiaratti, the Acton Select Board, and Economic Development Director for their support of this program.
