The Department of Mental Health is seeking qualified candidates for the Contracted Interpreter for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing position. This is a temporary contract position, and the incumbent will interpret spoken or written content into signed content and interpret signed content into spoken or written content. The Contracted Interpreter’s main duties will be to work with Deaf staff in their interactions with other agency staff, clients/consumers, service providers colleagues, community members and other stakeholders.
Interpretation will occur both on location and interpreters may be required to assist with identifying/scheduling freelance interpreter services on a local/regional/statewide level to ensure communication access.
The Department of Mental Health is an agency committed to diversity, equity, inclusion, and racial equity, as well as innovation, transformation, and change. The Department works towards creating a culture of excellence and belonging. Interpreters with diverse backgrounds and individuals from underrepresented communities are encouraged to apply.
Please Note\: This is a Part-Time, 20-hour position. The schedule will be Tuesday & Thursday, 8\:00 AM – 4\:30 PM. On Wednesdays, shift hours are variable and subject to scheduled meetings. On the second and fourth Wednesday of each month, hours are split between a remote Microsoft Teams meeting from 8\:30 AM – 9\:30 AM and an afternoon shift from 2\:00 PM – 5\:00 PM. On all other Wednesdays, working hours are from 1\:00 PM – 5\:00 PM. The scheduled days off will be Sunday, Monday, Friday, and Saturday.
Duties and Responsibilities (these duties are a general summary and not all inclusive)\:
Directly provide in-person and remote interpreting/transliteration services to agency staff, clients/consumers, providers, employers, and members of the public, as appropriate.
Provide effective interpretation/translation services, using languages most readily understood by those using these services, for meetings, conversations, training sessions, supervision, interviews, and other requested events.
Maintain professionalism and professional standards as delineated in the Code of Professional Conduct of the Registry of Interpreters for the Deaf.
Confer with fellow interpreters when working as a team, holding joint responsibility for the message.
Be proficient with remote conferencing platforms commonly used by Massachusetts state agencies, including Teams, Zoom and FaceTime.
Strive to obtain and review materials prior to providing interpreting services.
Actively engage in reflective practice with colleagues to ensure best practices in ethical, linguistic, and cultural competencies.
Continue to stay current on Deaf/hard of hearing topics and technology.
Share acquired skills and knowledge with other contracted interpreters and Deaf staff locally, regionally and at the Statewide Deaf Services meetings.
Interpret DMH staff and public announcements, such as those by the Commissioner, when requested and if scheduling permits.
Interpret at DMH special events when requested in advance and if scheduling permits.
Under the direction of the Deaf Service Program Coordinator, provide assigned interns with opportunities to observe and practice interpreter skills in the mental health setting; and help train new interpreters in the needs and demands of DMH/Case Management settings.
Work closely with the Deaf Service Program Coordinator, to\:
Ensure the MS Outlook calendar is up to date.
Schedule appropriate blocks of time for interpreting services following staff requirements and team availability.
Identify scheduling conflicts and help meet short notice/last minute requests
Identify when a freelance interpreter is needed to fill teaming and scheduling needs
Preferred Qualifications\:
At least two years of full-time, or equivalent part-time, professional experience providing interpretation and/or transliteration services for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing population.
Knowledge of both formal and informal registers of English, American Sign Language, and other signed communication (PSE, Contact Sign, etc.)
Bilingual or multilingual fluency in languages other than ASL and English.
Knowledge of specialized vocabularies (technical, medical, scientific, and so on) in both English and American Sign Language.
Bachelor’s Degree from an Interpreter Training Program.
Certification by the national Registry of Interpreters for the Deaf or other interpreter certification judged equivalent by MCDHH OR proof of successful screening through MCDHH.
Advanced certification or successful completion of training in the Mental Health specialty area.
Familiarity with Mental Health conditions/experience working in Behavioral Health settings.
Excellent written, oral, and digital communication skills.
Knowledge of Deaf culture and the Deaf community.
Strong understanding of the Code of Ethics established by the national Registry of Interpreters for the Deaf, Inc.
Ability to perform simultaneous and consecutive interpretation.
Ability to work in a team setting and independently.
Ability to establish rapport with persons from different ethnic, cultural and/or economic backgrounds and deal tactfully with others.
Experience in the use of technology required for the job, including technology critical for remote work (e.g., Zoom, Outlook calendar, Teams, etc.).
Proficient usage of Microsoft Office products including Excel and Outlook and other software programs.
Flexibility and willingness to work with an ever-changing schedule.
Available to work 20 hours per week as needed
Ability to travel for work-related assignments and/or reliable access to transportation.
Please Note\: Compensation will be determined based on education, experience, and certifications not to exceed the maximum hourly salary. The Contracted Interpreter must maintain certification/licensure throughout the period of employment.
Period of Service\:
Contract is for 12 months. (Renewable subject to appropriation).
20 hours per week as needed.
Additional Information\:
Benefits are unavailable with the exception of sick leave accruals.
Contracts are renewable, subject to Departmental approval, performance, and allocation of funds.
All employees will be paid on a biweekly basis and must have direct deposits.
About Worcester Recovery Center and Hospital (WRCH)\:
Located on over 20 acres in Worcester, Massachusetts, Worcester Recovery Center and Hospital (WRCH) is part of an integrated network of effective, efficient, and culturally competent mental health services. It provides intermediate and long-term inpatient care for individuals with serious and persistent mental illness who live in Massachusetts, as well as individuals requiring specialized court ordered evaluations.
WRCH provides inpatient services to 290 adults and 30 adolescents, inclusive of a Deaf Inpatient Mental Health Service program for 10 patients.
Learn more about WRCH\: Worcester Recovery Center and Hospital (WRCH) | Mass.gov
DMH Mission Statement\:
The Department of Mental Health assures and provides access to services and support to meet the mental health needs of individuals of all ages, enabling them to live, work and participate in their communities. The Department establishes standards to ensure effective and culturally competent care to promote recovery. The Department sets policy, promotes self-determination, protects human rights and supports mental health training and research.
Pre-Hire Process\:
A criminal background check will be completed on the recommended candidate as required by the regulations set forth by the Executive Office of Health and Human Services prior to the candidate being hired. For more information, please visit http\://www.mass.gov/hhs/cori
Education, licensure and certifications will be verified in accordance with the Human Resources Division’s Hiring Guidelines,
Education and license/certification information provided by the selected candidate(s) is subject to the Massachusetts Public Records Law and may be published on the Commonwealth’s website.
ADA Reasonable Accommodation\: If you require a reasonable accommodation with the application/interview process, please contact us at\: EOHHS Candidate ADA Requests
For questions regarding this requisition, please contact Executive Office of Health and Human Services, Human Resources at 1-800-510-4122, Option 4.
The Department of Mental Health is seeking qualified candidates for the Contracted Interpreter for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing position. This is a temporary contract position, and the incumbent will interpret spoken or written content into signed content and interpret signed content into spoken or written content. The Contracted Interpreter’s main duties will be to work with Deaf staff in their interactions with other agency staff, clients/consumers, service providers colleagues, community members and other stakeholders.
Interpretation will occur both on location and interpreters may be required to assist with identifying/scheduling freelance interpreter services on a local/regional/statewide level to ensure communication access.
The Department of Mental Health is an agency committed to diversity, equity, inclusion, and racial equity, as well as innovation, transformation, and change. The Department works towards creating a culture of excellence and belonging. Interpreters with diverse backgrounds and individuals from underrepresented communities are encouraged to apply.
Please Note\: This is a Part-Time, 20-hour position. The schedule will be Tuesday & Thursday, 8\:00 AM – 4\:30 PM. On Wednesdays, shift hours are variable and subject to scheduled meetings. On the second and fourth Wednesday of each month, hours are split between a remote Microsoft Teams meeting from 8\:30 AM – 9\:30 AM and an afternoon shift from 2\:00 PM – 5\:00 PM. On all other Wednesdays, working hours are from 1\:00 PM – 5\:00 PM. The scheduled days off will be Sunday, Monday, Friday, and Saturday.
Duties and Responsibilities (these duties are a general summary and not all inclusive)\:
Directly provide in-person and remote interpreting/transliteration services to agency staff, clients/consumers, providers, employers, and members of the public, as appropriate.
Provide effective interpretation/translation services, using languages most readily understood by those using these services, for meetings, conversations, training sessions, supervision, interviews, and other requested events.
Maintain professionalism and professional standards as delineated in the Code of Professional Conduct of the Registry of Interpreters for the Deaf.
Confer with fellow interpreters when working as a team, holding joint responsibility for the message.
Be proficient with remote conferencing platforms commonly used by Massachusetts state agencies, including Teams, Zoom and FaceTime.
Strive to obtain and review materials prior to providing interpreting services.
Actively engage in reflective practice with colleagues to ensure best practices in ethical, linguistic, and cultural competencies.
Continue to stay current on Deaf/hard of hearing topics and technology.
Share acquired skills and knowledge with other contracted interpreters and Deaf staff locally, regionally and at the Statewide Deaf Services meetings.
Interpret DMH staff and public announcements, such as those by the Commissioner, when requested and if scheduling permits.
Interpret at DMH special events when requested in advance and if scheduling permits.
Under the direction of the Deaf Service Program Coordinator, provide assigned interns with opportunities to observe and practice interpreter skills in the mental health setting; and help train new interpreters in the needs and demands of DMH/Case Management settings.
Work closely with the Deaf Service Program Coordinator, to\:
Ensure the MS Outlook calendar is up to date.
Schedule appropriate blocks of time for interpreting services following staff requirements and team availability.
Identify scheduling conflicts and help meet short notice/last minute requests
Identify when a freelance interpreter is needed to fill teaming and scheduling needs
Preferred Qualifications\:
At least two years of full-time, or equivalent part-time, professional experience providing interpretation and/or transliteration services for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing population.
Knowledge of both formal and informal registers of English, American Sign Language, and other signed communication (PSE, Contact Sign, etc.)
Bilingual or multilingual fluency in languages other than ASL and English.
Knowledge of specialized vocabularies (technical, medical, scientific, and so on) in both English and American Sign Language.
Bachelor’s Degree from an Interpreter Training Program.
Certification by the national Registry of Interpreters for the Deaf or other interpreter certification judged equivalent by MCDHH OR proof of successful screening through MCDHH.
Advanced certification or successful completion of training in the Mental Health specialty area.
Familiarity with Mental Health conditions/experience working in Behavioral Health settings.
Excellent written, oral, and digital communication skills.
Knowledge of Deaf culture and the Deaf community.
Strong understanding of the Code of Ethics established by the national Registry of Interpreters for the Deaf, Inc.
Ability to perform simultaneous and consecutive interpretation.
Ability to work in a team setting and independently.
Ability to establish rapport with persons from different ethnic, cultural and/or economic backgrounds and deal tactfully with others.
Experience in the use of technology required for the job, including technology critical for remote work (e.g., Zoom, Outlook calendar, Teams, etc.).
Proficient usage of Microsoft Office products including Excel and Outlook and other software programs.
Flexibility and willingness to work with an ever-changing schedule.
Available to work 20 hours per week as needed
Ability to travel for work-related assignments and/or reliable access to transportation.
Please Note\: Compensation will be determined based on education, experience, and certifications not to exceed the maximum hourly salary. The Contracted Interpreter must maintain certification/licensure throughout the period of employment.
Period of Service\:
Contract is for 12 months. (Renewable subject to appropriation).
20 hours per week as needed.
Additional Information\:
Benefits are unavailable with the exception of sick leave accruals.
Contracts are renewable, subject to Departmental approval, performance, and allocation of funds.
All employees will be paid on a biweekly basis and must have direct deposits.
About Worcester Recovery Center and Hospital (WRCH)\:
Located on over 20 acres in Worcester, Massachusetts, Worcester Recovery Center and Hospital (WRCH) is part of an integrated network of effective, efficient, and culturally competent mental health services. It provides intermediate and long-term inpatient care for individuals with serious and persistent mental illness who live in Massachusetts, as well as individuals requiring specialized court ordered evaluations.
WRCH provides inpatient services to 290 adults and 30 adolescents, inclusive of a Deaf Inpatient Mental Health Service program for 10 patients.
Learn more about WRCH\: Worcester Recovery Center and Hospital (WRCH) | Mass.gov
DMH Mission Statement\:
The Department of Mental Health assures and provides access to services and support to meet the mental health needs of individuals of all ages, enabling them to live, work and participate in their communities. The Department establishes standards to ensure effective and culturally competent care to promote recovery. The Department sets policy, promotes self-determination, protects human rights and supports mental health training and research.
Pre-Hire Process\:
A criminal background check will be completed on the recommended candidate as required by the regulations set forth by the Executive Office of Health and Human Services prior to the candidate being hired. For more information, please visit http\://www.mass.gov/hhs/cori
Education, licensure and certifications will be verified in accordance with the Human Resources Division’s Hiring Guidelines,
Education and license/certification information provided by the selected candidate(s) is subject to the Massachusetts Public Records Law and may be published on the Commonwealth’s website.
ADA Reasonable Accommodation\: If you require a reasonable accommodation with the application/interview process, please contact us at\: EOHHS Candidate ADA Requests
For questions regarding this requisition, please contact Executive Office of Health and Human Services, Human Resources at 1-800-510-4122, Option 4.
First consideration will be given to those applicants that apply within the first 14 days.
Minimum Entrance Requirements\: None.
Salary placement is determined by a combination of factors, including the candidate’s years of directly related experience and education, and alignment with our internal compensation structure as set forth by the Human Resources Division’s Hiring Guidelines. For all bargaining unit positions (non-management), compensation is subject to the salary provisions outlined in the applicable collective bargaining agreement and will apply to placement within the appropriate salary range.
Title 101 CMR 23.00 (“Regulation”) requires certain agency staff to have received the COVID-19 vaccination and Influenza vaccination, or have taken required mitigation measures, to prevent viral infection and transmission in State Hospitals and State Congregate Care Facilities. The Regulation applies to this position. Successful candidates will be required to acknowledge and attest to your vaccination status for both COVID-19 and Influenza.
An Equal Opportunity / Affirmative Action Employer. Females, minorities, veterans, and persons with disabilities are strongly encouraged to apply.
The Commonwealth is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, age, disability, national origin, veteran status, or any other basis covered by appropriate law. Research suggests that qualified women, Black, Indigenous, and Persons of Color (BIPOC) may self-select out of opportunities if they don't meet 100% of the job requirements. We encourage individuals who believe they have the skills necessary to thrive to apply for this role.
Comprehensive Benefits
When you embark on a career with the Commonwealth, you are offered an outstanding suite of employee benefits that add to the overall value of your compensation package. We take pride in providing a work experience that supports you, your loved ones, and your future.
Want the specifics?Explore our Employee Benefits and Rewards!
An Equal Opportunity / Affirmative Action Employer. Females, minorities, veterans, and persons with disabilities are strongly encouraged to apply.
The Commonwealth is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, age, disability, national origin, veteran status, or any other basis covered by appropriate law. Research suggests that qualified women, Black, Indigenous, and Persons of Color (BIPOC) may self-select out of opportunities if they don't meet 100% of the job requirements. We encourage individuals who believe they have the skills necessary to thrive to apply for this role.
First consideration will be given to those applicants that apply within the first 14 days.
Minimum Entrance Requirements\: None.
Salary placement is determined by a combination of factors, including the candidate’s years of directly related experience and education, and alignment with our internal compensation structure as set forth by the Human Resources Division’s Hiring Guidelines. For all bargaining unit positions (non-management), compensation is subject to the salary provisions outlined in the applicable collective bargaining agreement and will apply to placement within the appropriate salary range.
Title 101 CMR 23.00 (“Regulation”) requires certain agency staff to have received the COVID-19 vaccination and Influenza vaccination, or have taken required mitigation measures, to prevent viral infection and transmission in State Hospitals and State Congregate Care Facilities. The Regulation applies to this position. Successful candidates will be required to acknowledge and attest to your vaccination status for both COVID-19 and Influenza.
An Equal Opportunity / Affirmative Action Employer. Females, minorities, veterans, and persons with disabilities are strongly encouraged to apply.
The Commonwealth is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, age, disability, national origin, veteran status, or any other basis covered by appropriate law. Research suggests that qualified women, Black, Indigenous, and Persons of Color (BIPOC) may self-select out of opportunities if they don't meet 100% of the job requirements. We encourage individuals who believe they have the skills necessary to thrive to apply for this role.
Comprehensive Benefits
When you embark on a career with the Commonwealth, you are offered an outstanding suite of employee benefits that add to the overall value of your compensation package. We take pride in providing a work experience that supports you, your loved ones, and your future.
Want the specifics?Explore our Employee Benefits and Rewards!
An Equal Opportunity / Affirmative Action Employer. Females, minorities, veterans, and persons with disabilities are strongly encouraged to apply.
The Commonwealth is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, age, disability, national origin, veteran status, or any other basis covered by appropriate law. Research suggests that qualified women, Black, Indigenous, and Persons of Color (BIPOC) may self-select out of opportunities if they don't meet 100% of the job requirements. We encourage individuals who believe they have the skills necessary to thrive to apply for this role.
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The Commonwealth of Massachusetts runs state government operations to deliver public services and enforce laws for residents and communities. Government services are organized through agencies; residents interact with programs by applying for benefits, renewing licenses, or accessing records, and services are delivered via offices, websites, and call centers. It differs from private firms because it uses public funds to serve all residents and is guided by public policy and transparency rather than profits. Its goal is to improve residents’ lives by delivering reliable services and implementing public actions that respond to people’s needs.
Company Size
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Founded
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Landlord and tenant - Manufactured housing - Fair market rental rate. Superior Court/Business Litigation Session Where the commonwealth has alleged that the defendant owners of a manufactured housing community violated G.L.c. 93A by offering leases at greater than fair market rental rates in violation of G.L.c. 140, §32P, and 940 CMR §10.03(5), a motion to dismiss the complaint should be denied because there is no legal impediment to the commonwealth enforcing the Manufactured Housing Act's requirement that the defendants charge a fair market rental rate based on an evaluation and consideration of site-specific conditions. "The Commonwealth filed suit against The Boavida Group, LP and others (together Defendants or Boavida) alleging that Boavida purchased Willow Terrace Mobile Home Park (Willow Terrace), a 73-lot manufactured housing community located in Taunton, and shortly thereafter increased monthly rent in violation of the Manufactured Housing Act, G.L. 140, §§32A-32S (the MHA or the Act) and its governing regulations, 940 Code Mass. Regs. (CMR) §10.00, et seq. (the Regulations). On November 18, 2025, I issued a preliminary injunction barring Boavida from charging any Willow Terrace resident rent over $385 per month until January 1, 2028 or entry of judgment, and barring Boavida from commencing any proceeding against a tenant for failing to pay more than $385 per month in rent. "Thereafter, with the assent of the Defendants, the Commonwealth filed a First Amended Complaint (the FAC) asserting a single new count - Count V - which is the subject of the instant Motion to Dismiss (the Motion). After hearing and review, the Motion is denied... "The newly asserted Count V alleges that Defendants violated G.L.c. 93A, §2 by offering leases at greater than fair market rental rates in violation of G.L.c. 140, §32P and 940 CMR §10.03(5)... "Defendants make two arguments: First, that the Commonwealth is not authorized under the Act or Regulations to challenge a park owner's rental amount; and second, that the FAC fails to state a claim that the rents are not fair market rates. Neither argument persuades. "The gravamen of Defendants' first argument is that the [Attorney General's Office (AGO)] may not challenge a park owner's determination of fair market rent by alleging the rate fails to account for specific amenities and conditions at the community. Put elsewise, Defendants argue the AGO is not authorized to enforce the Act's 'fair market rental rate' requirement based on the Commonwealth's 'view of purported park conditions.' Defendants misapprehend the AGO's role in enforcing the Act as well as the applicable regulation governing fair market rental value... "Based on my own evaluation of the Act and Regulations, I find nothing in either that would prohibit the Commonwealth from proceeding with Count V... "I conclude there is no legal impediment to the Commonwealth enforcing the Act's requirement that Defendants charge a fair market rental rate based on an evaluation and consideration of site specific conditions... "For the foregoing reasons, Defendants' Motion to Dismiss Count V of the First Amended Complaint is denied." Commonwealth v. The Boavida Group, LP, et al. (Lawyers Weekly No. 09-093-26) (7 pages) (Squires-Lee, J.) (Suffolk Superior Court) (Civil Action No. 2584CV02493-BLS2) (August 2026).
MassDOT approves $200M for 20 MBTA commuter locomotives. Home " News " People " MassDOT approves $200M for 20 MBTA commuter locomotives. MassDOT approved $200 million to buy 20 hybrid and diesel locomotives for the MBTA commuter rail fleet in Boston under its state capital investment plan. October 10, 2026 12:09 pm | Last Update: October 10, 2026 12:10 pm In Brief: The Massachusetts Department of Transportation approved $200 million within a $600 million state capital package to acquire 20 battery-catenary and diesel-electric locomotives for the MBTA commuter rail network. BOSTON, UNITED STATES - The Massachusetts Department of Transportation board approved a $600 million statewide transport financing package, allocating $200 million directly to modernize the Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority commuter rail fleet. Authorized under Chapter 90 legislation within the FY 2026-2030 Capital Investment Plan signed by Governor Maura Healey, the funding supports the procurement of 20 cleaner locomotives. The capital investment targets the systematic retirement of the transit agency's oldest active operating units. How is the funding structured? The $200 million allocation represents one-third of a broader $600 million multi-modal infrastructure allocation administered under the state's five-year capital program. Administered via the MBTA Rail Reliability Program, the capital directs funding into two distinct rolling stock categories: 10 new diesel-electric locomotives and 10 battery/catenary hybrid locomotives. The dual-technology split enables emission-free operations under overhead wires and battery power on non-electrified segments, alongside lower-emission diesel power for longer regional routes. Specific delivery schedules and unit contract prices were not disclosed by state officials during the board vote. Ship by Rail Discover more Book Train Trips Compare Couriers Plan Vacations Key funding data. | Parameter | Value | | Fund / Programme Name | MBTA Rail Reliability Program (FY 2026-2030 CIP) | | Total Value | $200 million ($600 million total statewide package) | | Parties Involved | MassDOT, Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA) | | Timeline / Completion | Fiscal Years 2026-2030 | | Country / Corridor | United States / Greater Boston Commuter Rail Network | How does this Compare to similar funding programs? State-backed rolling stock recapitalization programs in the United States increasingly prioritize hybrid fleet transitions over pure diesel replacements to address urban emissions regulations. While peers like Chicago's CTA prioritize corridor infrastructure upgrades such as the Blue Line Forest Park Branch, and Texas agency Trinity Metro allocates capital to double-tracking projects (Source: Fort Worth Report, 2026), MassDOT's capital focuses directly on hybrid traction assets. The investment coincides with expansion across the global rail infrastructure market, which reached USD 101.11 billion in 2025 and is projected to expand to USD 126.54 billion by 2030 at a 4.59% compound annual growth rate (Source: Mordor Intelligence, 2025). Independent verification of the competitive tender schedule for the 20 MBTA locomotives was not available at time of publication. Discover more Ship by Rail Editor's analysis. MassDOT's split procurement structure demonstrates a capital-efficient transition strategy that avoids the high upfront expense of full-corridor electrification. By acquiring battery/catenary locomotives alongside standard diesel-electric traction, the MBTA can capture immediate air quality benefits in dense terminal districts without waiting for overhead wires to be strung across outer branches. This dual-track approach matches wider shifts across the railway systems market, which was valued at USD 31.1 billion in 2025 and is forecast to reach USD 50.0 billion by 2036 (Source: Future Market Insights, 2025). Faq. Q: What equipment will the MBTA acquire with the $200 million allocation? A: The MBTA will purchase 10 modern diesel-electric locomotives and 10 battery/catenary hybrid locomotives under its Rail Reliability Program. These 20 vehicles will replace the oldest, most breakdown-prone locomotives on the Boston regional rail system. Q: When will the 20 new locomotives enter active service? A: Delivery milestones and production schedules have not been officially confirmed by MassDOT. The project falls within the Commonwealth's Capital Investment Plan spanning fiscal years 2026 through 2030. Q: How do battery/catenary locomotives function on the MBTA network? A: Battery/catenary locomotives draw power from overhead wires where infrastructure exists and switch to onboard battery reserves on non-electrified track segments. This configuration eliminates diesel exhaust in urban terminals and reduces overall operating noise along suburban branch lines. Discover more Book Train Trips Plan Vacations Compare Couriers Railway infrastructure, rolling stock and transport technologies specialist focused on global rail industry developments, high-speed rail systems, signaling technologies and freight transportation. Covering railway investments, public transport modernization, rail operations and international mobility projects across Europe, Asia and North America. Ship by Rail
Conway embankments slated for repairs. Shelburne Falls Road erosion exacerbated by 2023 flooding CONWAY - Residents may see repairs to failing embankments along Shelburne Falls Road as the town seeks funding for the long-awaited project. According to Town Administrator Véronique Blanchard and Selectboard Chair Christopher Waldo, erosion, worsened by flooding in 2023, has severely damaged three key embankments supporting Shelburne Falls Road. Waldo described the failing embankments as a "huge issue" in town. "The floods of 2023 really exacerbated the problem," Blanchard said in a phone interview on Tuesday. Blanchard envisions nature-based solutions stabilizing the failing embankments to mitigate future erosion. To fund the project, the town plans to use its $75,000 earmark from the state's fiscal year 2026 supplemental budget that state Sen. Paul Mark secured. Considering the high price tag for the project, Blanchard worked with the Franklin Regional Council of Governments to secure an additional $50,500 through the Massachusetts Department of Transportation's Local Early-stage and Actionable Planning (LEAP) Program, which assists city and town governments with the early designing and planning for projects related to transportation and infrastructure. As part of the LEAP Program, MassDOT recommended the town work with Bowman Consulting Group Ltd. on the design engineering, leading the Selectboard to sign a contract with the company on Monday night. Blanchard stressed that the LEAP Program has made the project possible for a small community like Conway. "I'm absolutely thrilled with MassDOT and how much they've been helping FRCOG," she said after the Selectboard meeting. Down the line, Blanchard hopes to enroll the project in the Transportation Improvement Program (TIP), a multi-year program that helps city and town governments earn federal funding for transportation improvement projects. With designing, planning and funding still to come, the timeline for when work on stabilizing the embankments will begin is uncertain. "It's a long process," Blanchard said. "This is the first step to get us moving on that."
Massachusetts has selected Impruvon's Electronic Medication Administration Record (eMAR) platform as its statewide solution for medication management across healthcare settings. The platform has achieved full compliance with the Commonwealth's Medication Administration Program standards. The state-funded system is now available at no cost to all MAP providers, covering software access, training, and support. The platform was developed through collaboration with the Massachusetts Executive Office of Health and Human Services and constituent agencies including the Department of Public Health, Department of Mental Health, and Department of Developmental Services. Impruvon specialises in medication management technology for intellectual and developmental disabilities, behavioural health, and home and community-based services settings. The company aims to reduce medication errors and administrative burden whilst improving health outcomes.
MassDOT unveils renderings showing new Sagamore Bridge. Massachusetts Department of Transportation unveiled new renderings in July 2026 for the replacement Sagamore Bridge over the Cape Cod Canal. The updated design features wider lanes, expanded shoulders, and dedicated pedestrian and cyclist paths as part of the $2.1 billion Sagamore Bridge project within the $4.5 billion Cape Cod Bridges Program, officials said. The new Sagamore Bridge design will be wider and longer than the existing 91-year-old structure, with two 12-foot travel lanes in each direction and an additional lane on each side to accommodate entering and exiting traffic, effectively creating a third lane for ramps and merging, according to Luisa Paiewonsky, MassDOT's megaproject delivery executive director. The bridge will feature expanded shoulders to improve safety and operations, and its profile will have a reduced incline of approximately 4.5%, down from the current 6% grade, to ease driving conditions and enhance accessibility. MassDOT's July 2026 renderings reveal a barrier-protected, 14-foot-wide multi-use pathway for pedestrians and cyclists, separate from vehicle lanes, allowing two-way non-motorized traffic. The design includes a bench and lookout area near the midpoint of the bridge, facing west toward the sunset over the Cape Cod Canal, as described by Paiewonsky. Lighting on the bridge will be low and subdued to minimize disruption to nearby homes while meeting safety standards, with the capability to illuminate the structure in colors, including purple. Distinct arches will define the new Sagamore Bridge, aligning with the twin-arched design planned for both the Sagamore and Bourne bridges as part of the Cape Cod Bridges Program, officials said. Unlike the existing bridge, which has piers extending into the canal, the replacement's piers will be located on land and designed with a viewing platform at Canal Service Road level, offering public access and new vantage points over the canal. MassDOT plans to construct the main spans off-site and transport them through the canal for installation using cranes, a method similar to that employed for the Iway Bridge over the Providence River in 2009, according to project documents. MassDOT has released flythrough videos of the Recommended Sagamore North and South interchange alternatives, showing reconfigured approach and departure roads intended to improve traffic flow to and from Route 3 and Route 6 near the canal. These visualizations highlight changes to the southbound Sagamore interchange, including added lanes and new ramp configurations. Officials noted that approach and departure road configurations remain subject to refinement as public feedback continues to be collected through meetings and virtual sessions. The Sagamore Bridge replacement is scheduled as the first of the two Cape Cod Canal bridges to be rebuilt, with state approval to proceed expected in fall or winter 2027, according to Paiewonsky and project schedules. The southbound bridge span is planned to "float in" around fall 2031, indicating a major segment's installation via barge transport. Substantial completion of the new bridge is targeted for winter 2034, with demolition of the existing bridge slated for winter 2033. All work, including associated roadway and finishing tasks, is expected to conclude by spring 2037, according to MassDOT's published timeline. The current Sagamore and Bourne bridges, constructed between 1933 and 1935, carry two lanes of traffic in each direction without dedicated shoulders or separated pedestrian facilities comparable to the proposed design, records show. The Cape Cod Bridges Program is a major state megaproject with an estimated total cost of about $4.5 billion to replace both bridges. The Sagamore Bridge replacement alone is estimated at $2.1 billion, according to Paiewonsky. The program is overseen within MassDOT by an executive director of megaproject delivery, reflecting its scale and complexity. Public information efforts for the project include news releases, virtual drives, flythrough videos, and meetings designed to keep residents informed on design developments and scheduling. Earlier concept renderings and design options for both bridges were unveiled publicly, with MassDOT actively seeking input from residents and stakeholders to guide the ongoing design process.