Statement of Mayor Martin J. Walsh on Economic Development Legislation

I would like to thank the House of Representatives and the Senate for passing legislation that will address both the immediate and long-term economic development needs of the Commonwealth. The tools provided by this legislation will help to ensure that Massachusetts is replete with opportunities for growth and development. For Boston, this bill will: create a pipeline to jobs through the recapitalization of the Workforce Competitiveness Trust Fund; attract large scale development projects through the inclusion of the I-Cubed program; and will spur economic growth in our neighborhoods through the issuance of additional liquor licenses.

Despite high demand, the City of Boston has not received a cap increase on liquor licenses since 2006. A lack of licenses has hindered further economic growth in our neighborhoods, supporting robust spaces where people want to live, work, shop and eat. Because of this legislation, the City of Boston will have the ability to support small and local businesses in neighborhoods that historically have had less access to licenses.

Additionally, for the first time since 1906, through this legislation, the City of Boston will have the ability to appoint its own liquor licensing board – a provision that every other community is afforded.

I am deeply appreciative for the Legislature’s commitment to keeping our capital city and our state thriving through this bill.