Brockton BuzzAround

December 29, 2024



~ Building Community One Positive Story at a Time.

Old Colony Planning Council Receives $1,990,620 Prioritization Process Pilot Program Award from the Federal Highway Administration

This award is one of sixteen across the country and only one of two in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. The funding will support the development and implementation of a transportation prioritization process for the Transportation Improvement Program (TIP), Long Range Transportation Plan (LRTP), and Unified Planning Work Program (UPWP).

The program aims to improve how transportation projects are planned, evaluated, and implemented within the Old Colony Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO) region by promoting safety, environmental sustainability, equity, public participation, and workforce development.

Through continuous public feedback and engagement with residents and stakeholders within the region and implementation of a data-driven approach, OCPC plans to develop and implement a publicly accessible, transparent prioritization process for the ranking and selection of projects for inclusion in short-range and long-range transportation plans. OCPC is committed to public participation and transparency throughout the prioritization process and engaging stakeholders within our region.

Becky Coletta, President of Old Colony Planning Council, said, “Old Colony Planning Council’s staff took the initiative to apply for these funds, and that speaks volumes about the care and compassion they have for our 17 communities. Under the leadership of Executive Director Mary Waldron, Paul Umano, Senior Grants Development Specialist, and Charles Kilmer, Deputy Director, and Transportation Program Manager, took the lead and recognized the record investments and opportunities provided by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (BIL) to address the needs of our communities. On behalf of all of our Council members, we truly extend our gratitude to Senator Warren, Senator Markey, Congressman Lynch, and Congressman Keating, and their respective Congressional Offices for their continued support for our region."

The project has also garnered strong support from federal and state representatives. Senator Edward Markey commented, “Old Colony Planning Council is planning for a brighter future for all. This funding will support their ongoing efforts to set transportation priorities toward a safe and sustainable tomorrow that is driven by public participation. I was proud to advocate for this funding, and I’m glad to see it now awarded to OCPC.”

“Modernized infrastructure keeps Massachusetts residents and their loved ones safe,” said Senator Warren. “This grant will fund the Old Colony Planning Council’s work to implement important adaptations to climate change and integrate safer transportation practices for everyone.”

"This award marks a significant investment in building a safer, more sustainable transportation future for our region. With nearly $2 million in federal funding, OCPC will utilize innovative, data-driven strategies to prioritize projects that improve connectivity and quality of life for all residents," said Congressman Bill Keating. "Together, with the support of our federal, state, and local partners, Old Colony Planning Council Executive Director Mary Waldron and President Becky Coletta are laying the groundwork for transportation systems that truly serve the needs of our communities."

“I am proud to provide the Old Colony Planning Council (OCPC) with over 1.99 million dollars of federal funding to improve transportation planning in our region,” said Congressman Steven Lynch. “This program will allow the OCPC to better identify critical transportation projects within our communities and help develop a plan that promotes public safety, sustainability, and workforce development. I am grateful for the hard work of OCPC Executive Director Mary Waldron and President Becky Coletta and for the partnership of my congressional colleagues so we can continue to ensure federal funding from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law goes right where it’s needed most in our cities and towns.”

For more information about the Old Colony MPO Prioritization Process Pilot Program, please visit

www.oldcolonyplanning.org or contact Charles Kilmer at ckilmer@ocpcrpa.org.

Brockton High School Holiday Concert 12-18-24

Video Courtesy of The Brockton Channels

Brockton High School National Honor Society Induction Ceremony 12-11-24

Video Courtesy of The Brockton Channels

Artist Reception & Exhibition

Sat, Jan 4

5-10p

Enso Gallery West

86 Centre St

Rolly Blanchette and Brockton Arts proudly present Artist Vision, a celebration of artistic talent from the area and across the world. Join us for an evening of creativity at this artist reception and exhibition, featuring a diverse array of artwork in a unique showcase and art sale.

Artists featured include: Versha Barber, John Blanchette, Liz Bruce, Monica Davis, Tim Doyle, Emilie Errié, Sarah Feragen, Kelliann Jarasitis, Scott Ketcham, S. Bay Koulabdara, Ann Ladd, Donna Maligno, J. McLaughlin, Amya Meshelle, Richard Pepp, Reypalm, Panteha Sanati, Rafael Santana, Raynel Shepard, and Zahirah Nur Truth.

For more information, contact Rolly Blanchette rolly@brocktonarts.org

Brockton City Council Ordinance Committee Meeting 12-19-24

Video Courtesy of The Brockton Channels

Brockton Conservation Commission Meeting 12-18-24

Video Courtesy of The Brockton Channels

Brocton Bikes is getting together for a Safe Street Initiative!

Brockton Bikes is a community of cyclists that are getting together to make the streets of Brockton safer for cyclists and the community at large. Brockton Bikes is supporting the Safe Streets for All initiative that would help in bringing forth more pedestrian and cyclist-friendly spaces in Brockton. If you want to join to help the initiative, you can visit (Brockton Bikes FB) for general information about the group and their plans. If you have specific questions that you want to ask the group, email info@brocktonbikes.org. If you want to help support the initiative with a sign for your window or lawn, use Brocton Bikes Google Doc.

Written by Dona Guerrero, BuzzAround Intern, UMASS

Source & Photo Credit: Brockton Bikes FB

Climate Can Do:

Eco-Friendly Gifting

This holiday season, let’s give our communities the gift of zero waste! Here are a few things to look out for and a few tips for giving (and wrapping) earth-conscious presents:

Shop recyclable: most shiny wrapping paper and glittery cards are not recyclable. Try brown or recycled paper or reusable fabric totes or sacks.

Save energy: holiday lights make wonderful decor, but we should be mindful of their impact on the environment. Keeping your lights on a timer or setting aside time to turn them off can save you money on your electric bill and energy. Also, consider what types of lights you’re using. LED lights consume up to 80% less energy than traditional incandescent lights and last 10 times longer. Switching to LEDs will reduce your carbon footprint and present a lesser risk of fire.

Eliminate excess: a family game of Secret Santa is not only fun and personal but can save you from buying a gift or two for everyone at the party. Additionally, if you are careful with your decor and the wrappings you receive with presents, they can save you time, money, and waste for next Christmas! Reuse and upcycle decor, wrapping, ribbons, string, and even Christmas cards, which can be cut up to make tags.

Buy Local: save time, get personalized attention, and make someone's dreams come true, spend your holiday dollars at a small, local business.

Source: www.thecommons.earth, www.wildlifetrusts.org

This Climate Can Do was written by Sara MacKinnon, BuzzAround Intern, Providence College.

COA Book Club:

Fahrenheit 451 by Ray Bradbury 

Mon, Jan 13

1- 3p

Large Conference Room

304 Main St

Join the COA Book Club at the Brockton Public Library for our first meeting of the year. We will discuss Fahrenheit 451 by Ray Bradbury. Short description: "A totalitarian regime has ordered all books to be destroyed but one of the book burners, Guy Montag, suddenly realizes their merit." Physical copies (regular print, audiobook CD, and Playaway) are available at the circulation desk of Brockton Public Library's main branch. Must have a library card to check out.

For more information: www.BrocktonPublicLibrary.Org

• Digital eBook, click here to get it from Overdrive. Must have a library card to check out this digital copy.
• Digital audiobook, click here to get it from Overdrive or here to get it from Hoopla. 

Brockton School Committee Meeting

12-17-24

Video Courtesy of The Brockton Channels

The African American Association of Brockton’s 2nd Annual Toy Drive

Brings Joy to Our Community

The African American Association (AAA) of Brockton held its 2nd Annual Toy Drive on December 14 — it was a truly heartwarming event that united our community to spread holiday cheer and provide support to local families. This year’s toy drive was a resounding success and was made possible by the generosity of sponsors, the dedication of volunteers, and the unwavering spirit of Brockton.

The association want to extends its deepest gratitude to its Platinum Sponsors: Chris Carney, Steven Prone, Ocean State Job Lot, and Lady C&J Soulfood & Catering INC. Their contributions played a major role in assuring the event’s success.

Another very special thanks also go to the Gold Sponsors: Moises M. Rodrigues, Philip Griffen, Sam Chenet, and George Millett, as well as the Silver Sponsors: Jeff Thompson, Susan Nicastro, Winthrop Farwell Jr., and Maria Tavares. Your support truly made a difference.

Additionally, the AAA sends a sincere thanks to the incredible volunteers whose hard work and dedication made the day possible. And a special recognition to Dee Galvin and her daughter for their generous food contributions that added a warm and welcoming touch to the event. The Effortless Steppers also brought their signature energy and spirit, making the gathering even more memorable.

The African American Association of Brockton also wishes to acknowledge the important role of Brockton Community Access in supporting the event and the Brockton community as a whole for coming together to make it all happen.

As we reflect on the impact of this year’s Toy Drive, we are reminded of the power of community and the difference we can make when we come together. Until next year, Brockton — thank you for your continued support and generosity!

Happy Holidays, Merry Christmas, Happy Kwanzaa, and Happy New Year!

Source & Photo Credit: Jamie Hodges, African American Association of Brockton FB

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