Published reports indicate that the Patrick Administration is looking to spend $9 million in economic stimulus money for a footbridge connecting Patriots’ Place and Gillette Stadium.
These facilities are privately owned by Robert Kraft, who is reportedly one of the world’s top 500 richest people.
These facilities are privately owned by Robert Kraft, who is reportedly one of the world’s top 500 richest people.
There’s no question that Mr. Kraft is a successful businessman who has invested a large amount of money in the commonwealth and in our favorite local football franchise. There is also no question that constructing the footbridge would further economic development potential and have a multiplier effect on the local economy, which is a good thing.
But there is a legitimate question whether this is a good use of limited stimulus money, especially when you consider that this construction project will likely edge-out many other necessary road and bridge projects in cities and towns across the state.
I noticed that one person wrote a letter to the editor of the Boston Globe today noting that our state is spending $9 million on the footbridge at the same time that we are cutting $2.7 million in funding for programs to help the homeless. The author calls this an “interesting juxtaposition” of stories, and wonders if it’s really a good use of the money.
I wonder the same thing.
I have argued consistently for our state to make a very targeted, calculated use of economic stimulus funds to make sure they are used in the most effective way possible. While constructing a footbridge in Foxborough might be a legitimate use of federal stimulus money to promote worthy economic development, I have serious doubts whether it is the best use of that money at this time.
What do you think? Feel free to post comments below.
