With the spring construction season almost over, the Legislature is inching closer to delivering road repair funds to cities and towns.
The House and Senate on Thursday gave final approval to a bill authorizing the Treasury to issue bonds of up to 30 years to help fund a one-year $300-million local road and bridge program.
The so-called terms bill is now on the desk of Gov. Deval Patrick, who has signed off on a $300 million program but plans to release only $150 million while legislative leaders continue to work out details of tax-raising legislation.
While lawmakers say their $500 million package of tobacco, business and gas tax increases is sufficient to cover the spending, Patrick has raised concerns that it may not generate enough money to pay for the local road program, known as Chapter 90, while also paying for other transportation priorities, including projects with public safety implications.
