Hingham Shipyard

March 13, 2008

Hingham Shipyard bill gets Beacon Hill hearing

Town meeting-approved bill would establish Improvement District at former shipyard site

BOSTON, MA – Legislation that should make it easier to finance infrastructure improvements at the former Hingham Shipyard site was heard today before the Joint Committee on Community Development and Small Business.

In written testimony given to the committee, both Sen. Robert Hedlund (R-Weymouth) and Rep. Garrett Bradley (D-Hingham) said approval of the bill would help stimulate the $250 million mixed-use development off Route 3A.

“The development will bring jobs, at a time when many need them, and provide housing opportunities. It is a much needed and well supported project. As such I urge the Committee to release the bill with a favorable report,” Sen. Hedlund said.

“This legislation will certainly benefit the re-development of the Hingham Shipyard, said Bradley. By creating this improvement district, the project will move quicker and more efficient.”

The legislation, House Bill 4519, would establish the Hingham Shipyard Improvement District, allowing developers to finance needed project infrastructure – such as roadways and sewer lines – using 35-year bonds paid for through liens and assessments on property owners. Members of the district’s governing board would be appointed by the Hingham Board of Selectmen. It was approved by Hingham voters in 2004.

Under legislative rules, committees have until Wednesday, March 19 to give either favorable or unfavorable recommendations, or place the bills into a study.

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