Press Coverage

Boston Globe - Will the city’s new mayor be pro-charter?

Fri, 10 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT

IT WAS a juxtaposition that demonstrates the way things are changing in Boston.

Boston Globe - New poll finds single-digit Senate race

Thu, 09 May 2013 14:13:00 GMT

A new poll released this morning by WBUR found Democratic US Representative Edward J. Markey leading Republican Gabriel E. Gomez by eight points among likely voters in their race for the US Senate.

Huffington Post - Ed Markey Leads Gabriel Gomez In Massachusetts Senate Polls

Thu, 09 May 2013 12:03:00 GMT

Democratic Congressman Ed Markey holds a lead over Republican political newcomer Gabriel Gomez in the Massachusetts U.S. Senate race, though a newly released pair of polls differ on how wide his margin is.

TPM - New Poll Shows Markey Up 8

Thu, 09 May 2013 09:35:00 GMT

On the heels of a poll showing Rep. Ed Markey (D-MA) with a sizable advantage in the U.S. Senate special election in Massachusetts, a survey out Thursday morning showed the Democrat with a smaller edge.

WBUR - Markey Edges Gomez In WBUR Senate Poll

Thu, 09 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT

A new WBUR poll (PDFs – topline, crosstabs) shows U.S. Rep. Edward Markey leading former Navy SEAL Gabriel Gomez 41 to 35 percent in the Massachusetts U.S. Senate race.

NECN - Broadside: When pollsters diverge

Thu, 09 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT

There's nothing new about talking to a pollster about his latest numbers in a hot political race - but talking to two pollsters with results that differ is.

WBUR - On The Ball Fields Of Savin Hill, A Snapshot Of Where The Senate Race Stands

Thu, 09 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT

A WBUR poll (PDFs – topline, crosstabs) finds a tight race between the U.S. Senate candidates. Democratic Congressman Ed Markey leads Republican private equity manager Gabriel Gomez by six points, 41 to 35 percent, with 23 percent undecided.

Sentinel and Enterprise - Conflicting polls in U.S. Senate race

Thu, 09 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT

Results of the fourth poll in the U.S. Senate race were released Thursday morning and showed Congressman Edward Markey with a six-point lead over Republican Gabriel Gomez.

National Journal - Varying Markey Leads in Polls

Thu, 09 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT

MA SEN special: According to a new Suffolk Univ./WHDH-TV poll of special election LVs, conducted 5/4-7, Rep. Edward Markey (D) leads Gomez, 55-38% (release).

The Hill - Second poll suggests tighter race between Markey, Gomez

Thu, 09 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT

A new poll released Thursday shows Rep. Ed Markey (D-Mass.) holding just a six-point lead over Republican nominee Gabriel Gomez in the Massachusetts U.S. Senate race, suggesting the highly scrutinized special election may remain a close race.

CNN - New polls puts Democrat on top in Mass. Senate race

Wed, 08 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT

Two new polls suggest the Democrats have the lead in the battle for an open U.S. Senate seat in Massachusetts up for grabs next month.

The Lowell Sun - Poll: Mass. consumers more confident

Mon, 06 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT

Consumer confidence in Massachusetts rebounded last month from a downturn earlier in the year, according to a survey from The MassIINC Polling Group.

Cape Cod Today - 66 percent support more charter schools

Mon, 06 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT

Charter school proponents on Monday morning were promoting new poll results showing voters in the Boston area support lifting caps on the number of charter schools by a nearly three to one margin.

Fall River Herald - Want to learn more about biking safety? A whole week of programming

Mon, 06 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT

A WGBH News poll released over the weekend shows that only one out of three Massachusetts residents feel drivers and bicyclists on the region’s roads interact safely.

Springfield Republican - Consumer confidence on the rise in Massachusetts, new MassINC poll indicates

Mon, 06 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT

Consumer confidence rose significantly last month, according to a a new poll released by Monday by a Boston-based polling group.

Boston Business Journal - MassINC: Consumer confidence rebounds in latest quarter

Mon, 06 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT

Consumer confidence in Massachusetts rebounded in the first quarter to levels it attained late last year, according to the MassInc Polling Group’s Trend Monitor report.

Springfield Republican - Editorial: Fear curbs our yearning for personal freedoms

Fri, 03 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT

Almost a dozen years after the World Trade Center attacks, the land of the free is still a much more skittish place than it was on Sept. 10, 2001.

The Boston Globe - Red Sox seek permanent street-lease deal

Thu, 02 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT

Before Fenway games, thousands of Sox fans flock to temporary concession stands outside the gates to buy beer and frankfurters. Meanwhile, scores of attendees take their $165 seats atop the stadium’s iconic left-field wall, the Green Monster.

Springfield Republican - Boston Marathon bombing polls shows Massachusetts residents support decision to lockdown city, state police efforts in case

Tue, 30 Apr 2013 10:21:00 GMT

Ninety-one percent of Massachusetts residents agree with the decision to lock down parts of Greater Boston while looking for the second Boston Marathon bombing suspect April 19 and 86 percent have a favorable opinion of the state police's handling of the case, according to survey results released Tuesday morning by The MassInc Polling Group.

Springfield Republican - MassINC Poll: Massachusetts voters hold positive view of Sen. Elizabeth Warren, Gov. Deval Patrick

Tue, 30 Apr 2013 10:00:00 GMT

A new MassINC Polling Group survey concludes that a majority of Massachusetts residents hold positive opinions about Democratic U.S. Sen.Elizabeth Warren and Gov. Deval Patrick.

WBUR - Poll: Most Mass. Residents Back Shutdown Of Area For Marathon Manhunt

Tue, 30 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT

A strong majority of Massachusetts residents agree with the decision to lock down the Boston area during the search for one of the suspected Boston Marathon bombers, according to a new poll.

Boston Magazine - Poll: Overall, Residents Approve of the Police Response to the Bombings

Tue, 30 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT

Boston Police Commissioner Ed Davis was pleased with how law officials apprehended Boston Bombing suspect Dzokhar Tsarnaev, and the way they responded to the explosions the day of the marathon, calling the actions of officers and first responders “tremendous.”

Fox News - Bombing shifts Massachusetts Senate race before primaries Tuesday

Sun, 28 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT

Even before the explosions, polling suggested that Massachusetts voters weren't excited about the looming special election to replace former U.S. Sen. John Kerry.

The Boston Globe - A Senate race that has been hard to focus on

Sun, 28 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT

Brutal snowstorms, an upheaval in Boston city politics, a contentious tax debate on Beacon Hill, and now terrorism at the Marathon. Since nearly the opening hours of the race to fill John Kerry’s US Senate seat, a series of events has smothered the campaign and raised serious questions over the efficacy of special elections.

Boston Magazine - Another Day, Another Report on Massachusetts’ Botched Prison Policies

Fri, 26 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT

MassINC and Community Resources for Justice (CRJ) released a new report on the state of criminal justice health in Massachusetts. The report points out well-worn zingers such as “A decade ago, higher education surpassed spending on corrections by 25 percent. Today the higher educa¬tion budget is 21 percent lower.”.

The Boston Globe - Regional transit systems hope to gain from funding bill

Mon, 22 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT

Josh Colon travels four hours per day, five days per week, to get from his North Adams home to classes at Berkshire Community College in Pittsfield and back.

Go Local Worcester - Report: MA’s Criminal Justice Policies Costly, Ineffective

Thu, 18 Apr 2013 11:06:00 GMT

A Bay State non-partisan think tank and polling group,Massacchusetts Institute for a New Commonwealth (MassINC), says that the Commonwealth is spending too much on criminal justice and not seeing the benefits.

Cape Cod Times - Gonsalves: Dealing with recidivism from the inside out

Tue, 16 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT

The furthest thought from Amelie Scheltema's mind was to go to prison.

The Boston Globe - Worries over rail project funding

Sun, 14 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT

Proponents of a decades-old plan that would connect Southeastern Massachusetts communities with Boston by commuter rail are encouraged that the project is conversation on Beacon Hill, but worry that if it’s not funded this year, it might never get done.

Brockton Enterprise - Brockton officials to talk transit and its role in economic growth

Thu, 11 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT

Mayor Linda Balzotti would embrace more public transit to industrial parks and other areas of the city.

Brockton Enterprise - Officials discuss expanding regional transit in Brockton

Thu, 11 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT

Brockton Area Transit sees roughly 3 million passengers each year – and local officials expect those numbers to grow.

The Boston Globe - Special court in Dedham is serving those who served

Thu, 11 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT

Adam Matthews has been in and out of jail since his 2010 medical discharge from the Marines for war-related trauma that for so many in the military results in mental health and substance abuse issues when they return home.

The Eagle Tribune - Tolls on I-93 gain support in Mass.

Sun, 07 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT

Tolls are part of a menu of options for an overhaul of how the state funds its transportation system, state officials have said, reviving a discussion about a toll on Interstate 93.

Boston Globe - New leaders try to fix Mass. Probation Department

Thu, 04 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT

Almost three years after the Massachusetts Probation Department patronage scandal swept longtime Commissioner John J. O’Brien and most of his deputies out of their jobs, the agency is being run by people who bucked his unfair hiring system.

Boston Globe - Report on crime, prisons raises awareness

Thu, 04 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT

THE “CRIME, Cost, and Consequences” report released last week by MassINC and Community Resources for Justice raises several points worthy of further discussion (“Crime down, prison costs up,” Page A1, March 25).

Springfield Republican - Pioneer Valley Transit Authority launches year-long review of bus routes in Western Massachusetts

Thu, 04 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT

The Pioneer Valley Transit Authority has begun a year-long review of routes and services in the 24 communities it serves in response to population shifts and other changes.

Go Local Worcester - Worcester’s Elected Officials Split Over Senate Special Election

Tue, 02 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT

With less than a month before the April 30th U.S. Senate primary special election, and debates just getting underway, some Worcester elected officials have declared their support, while others say that they have yet to decide which of the five candidates they will endorse for the seat previously held by John Kerry.

The MetroWest Daily News - Editorial: Paying too much for policies that don’t work

Sun, 31 Mar 2013 00:00:00 GMT

Like many states, Massachusetts responded to a crime surge in the 1980s by getting tough.

The Norwood Patch - Do You Support Mandatory Minimum Sentencing Laws?

Sun, 31 Mar 2013 00:00:00 GMT

Mandatory minimum sentence laws remain popular on Beacon Hill.

Boston Globe - Crime lab scandal underscores ills of injustice

Fri, 29 Mar 2013 00:00:00 GMT

A REPORT commissioned by MassINC (“Crime down, prison costs up,” Page A1, March 25) argues that some Massachusetts inmates, particularly nonviolent drug offenders, should have received shorter sentences. Can we connect the dots with the long-running story about the state crime lab scandal?

Lowell Sun - UMass Lowell to host April 8 debates for U.S. Senate candidates

Fri, 29 Mar 2013 00:00:00 GMT

Democratic candidates for U.S. Senate, and possibly their Republican counterparts, will debate at the University of Massachusetts Lowell on Monday, April 8.

Eagle Tribune - Regional transportation forum open to public

Thu, 28 Mar 2013 00:00:00 GMT

MassINC and Transportation for Massachusetts will hold a public forum and panel discussion on regional transportation investments in Massachusetts Gateway Cities Tuesday, April 2 from 4 to 5:30 p.m. in the Hartleb Technology Center (Room 103AB) on the Haverhill campus of Northern Essex Community College, 100 Elliott St.

South Coast Today - Commuter Rail could be at risk if Patrick's tax plan not passed in full

Thu, 28 Mar 2013 00:00:00 GMT

State transportation advocates are worried that the SouthCoast commuter rail project could be dead in the water if the Legislature does not approve Gov. Deval Patrick's proposed income tax increase.

Washington Post - Poll shows Markey ahead by 11 in Massachusetts

Wed, 27 Mar 2013 00:00:00 GMT

We’re about a month away from the April 30 primaries in the Massachusetts special Senate election, and Rep. Ed Markey continues to hold a significant-but-not-insurmountable lead over Rep. Stephen Lynch on the Democratic side.

Springfield Republican - MassInc: Massachusetts mandatory sentencing sends prison costs skyrocketing without improving recividism

Wed, 27 Mar 2013 00:00:00 GMT

A new report on state criminal justice says Massachusetts needs to reconsider its two-decade old approach to mandatory sentencing and lengthy incarceration for many crimes or be prepared to spend an additional $2 billion over the next decade on its growing prison population.

Lowell Sun - Senate race can't shake voters' apathy

Wed, 27 Mar 2013 00:00:00 GMT

The good news for U.S. Senate front-runners -- Democrat Ed Markey and Republican Michael Sullivan -- is a double-digit lead over their rivals.

WBUR - GOP, Democratic U.S. Senate Hopefuls Face Off In Debate

Wed, 27 Mar 2013 00:00:00 GMT

The five candidates hoping to fill the seat of former U.S. Sen. John Kerry faced off in a live television debate Wednesday night. As the candidates from each party sought to win over voters — or just gain some name recognition – clear differences emerged.

Sentinel and Enterprise - Candidates go head to head tonight

Wed, 27 Mar 2013 00:00:00 GMT

Democratic and Republican candidates for U.S. Senate are hoping to warm up to the cameras -- and, more importantly, the electorate -- when they face off in the first of their televised debates tonight.

Boston Globe - Mass. Senate candidates debate Wednesday

Wed, 27 Mar 2013 00:00:00 GMT

Candidates for the state’s special Senate election are scheduled to meet Wednesday for the first televised debates of the campaign, back-to-back, half-hour sessions, between the Republicans and then the Democrats.

Lowell Sun - Senate race can't shake voters' apathy

Wed, 27 Mar 2013 00:00:00 GMT

The good news for U.S. Senate front-runners -- Democrat Ed Markey and Republican Michael Sullivan -- is a double-digit lead over their rivals.

Lowell Sun - Senate hopefuls taking stage

Wed, 27 Mar 2013 00:00:00 GMT

Democratic and Republicans candidates for U.S. Senate are hoping to warm up to the cameras -- and more importantly the electorate -- when they face off in the first of their televised debates tonight.

Patriot Ledger - Report skewers Mass. on crime; some South Shore experts praise findings

Tue, 26 Mar 2013 00:00:00 GMT

A new report sharply critical of the state’s record on criminal justice, incarceration rates and recidivism is getting high marks from a prosecutor, a legislator, a sheriff and a former judge – all of them on the South Shore.

Boston.com - WBUR poll shows Edward J. Markey leading Democratic race and Michael J. Sullivan ahead in the Republican run for US Senate nomination

Tue, 26 Mar 2013 00:00:00 GMT

US Representative Edward J. Markey is leading the race for the Democratic Senate nomination while former US attorney Michael J. Sullivan is ahead in the battle for the GOP nomination, according to a new WBUR poll released this morning.

WBUR - Poll: Markey, Sullivan Hold Primary Leads, But Many Are Undecided

Tue, 26 Mar 2013 00:00:00 GMT

A new WBUR poll (PDFs – topline, crosstabs) of the special Massachusetts U.S. Senate election finds it wide open on both the Democratic and the Republican sides.

WKZO - Markey retains lead in Massachusetts Senate race, many undecided: poll

Tue, 26 Mar 2013 00:00:00 GMT

Democratic Representative Ed Markey retained the lead among the five candidates seeking the Massachusetts Senate seat previously held by John Kerry, although a large number of likely voters remain undecided, according to a poll released on Tuesday.

WWLP - Crime down, but prison spending up

Tue, 26 Mar 2013 00:00:00 GMT

A new report finds that we are spending more on prisons than in years past, even though violent crimes in our state are generally down.

National Journal - Poll: Markey Leads Lynch, But Many Are Undecided

Tue, 26 Mar 2013 00:00:00 GMT

Rep. Edward Markey, D-Mass., and Republican former U.S. Attorney Michael Sullivancurrently lead their respective party primaries in the upcoming Massachusetts Senate special election, but significant numbers of voters in both parties remain undecided, according to a new poll conducted for Boston-based NPR affiliate WBUR-FM and released early Tuesday.

Boston Globe - Markey, Sullivan lead in race for Senate, poll shows

Tue, 26 Mar 2013 00:00:00 GMT

Patriot Ledger - Republicans stake out turf before Wednesday's Senate debate

Tue, 26 Mar 2013 00:00:00 GMT

As all three Republican candidates for U.S. Senate struggle to make basic connections with voters, Rep. Daniel Winslow and Cohasset businessman Gabriel Gomez’s campaign tussled on Tuesday in advance of two critical debates later in the week.

Springfield Republican - U.S. Rep. Ed Markey and Michael Sullivan lead in primaries for Senate election, new poll finds

Tue, 26 Mar 2013 00:00:00 GMT

U.S. Rep. Edward J. Markey holds a sizable lead in the contest for the Democratic primary in the special Senate election, and former U.S. attorney Michael J. Sullivan is well ahead in the contest for the Republican election, according to a new WBUR poll.

Sentinel and Enterprise - Poll: Many undecided in both Dem and GOP U.S. Senate contests

Tue, 26 Mar 2013 00:00:00 GMT

Rep. Dan Winslow, who has graced the cover of Commonwealth Magazine and pursued such unconventional political maneuvers as constructing a Marshmallow Fluff pyramid to illustrate government waste, ranks last in a recent poll of name recognition among candidates for the U.S. Senate.

Boston Globe - New report slams Mass. on correction reform

Mon, 25 Mar 2013 09:13:00 GMT

Despite steeply declining violent crime rates, the percentage of Massachusetts residents behind bars has tripled since the early 1980s, as the Commonwealth has clung to tough-on-crime laws that many other states have abandoned as ineffective, according to a study being released this week.

Boston.com - Mass. spends more on prisons, as crime rates drop

Mon, 25 Mar 2013 08:29:00 GMT

A new report is critical of Massachusetts for putting more people behind bars and spending more on prisons, even though the state’s violent crime rate is down dramatically.

Boston Magazine - Massachusetts Has a Terribly Outdated Criminal Justice System

Mon, 25 Mar 2013 00:00:00 GMT

Ever since Michael Dukakis saw his presidential campaign torpedoed over the furlough of convicted murderer Willie Horton, Massachusetts politicians have erred on the side of being tough on crime, pushing for mandatory minimum sentencing and tough parole boards.

MetroWest Daily News - Report: State criminal sentencing laws are costly with little benefit

Mon, 25 Mar 2013 00:00:00 GMT

With correction costs spiraling upwards, Massachusetts should impose a moratorium on state and county prison expansion, revisit its "tough on crime" sentencing laws and expand programs aimed at preventing recidivism, according to a report released Monday by MassINC and a new coalition helmed by prominent former criminal defense, prosecutorial and public safety officials.

Boston Globe - Richard Davey hits road to pitch transportation plan

Sun, 24 Mar 2013 00:00:00 GMT

Richard A. Davey, the state’s transportation secretary, has done a lot of traveling in the last few weeks. He’ll tell you that himself, as he did at a Department of Transportation meeting earlier this month.

South Coast Today - Bond bill brings hope for SRTA, commuter rail

Fri, 22 Mar 2013 00:00:00 GMT

SouthCoast politicians, community organizers and businessmen on Thursday stressed the potential regional impact of the transportation bond bill currently being considered by the state Legislature.

Fall River Herald - At UMD panel, speakers detail need for better bus service in region

Fri, 22 Mar 2013 00:00:00 GMT

Loss of economic opportunity, lack of access to health care facilities and a burden on the work force are just some of the problems with the region’s bus service detailed by speakers at a panel discussion on Thursday during a forum on investing in public transportation for economic growth.

The Daily Free Press - Patrick submits bill on transportation, has public support

Wed, 20 Mar 2013 00:00:00 GMT

In joint association with the Massachusetts Department of Transportation, Mass. Gov. Deval Patrick filed legislation Wednesday to fund infrastructure improvements over the next 10 years.

Brockton Enterprise - Sen. Warren: Gateway Cities have a lot of power, promise

Tue, 19 Mar 2013 00:00:00 GMT

While special interest groups dole out big money for lobbyists to advance their cause, U.S. Sen. Elizabeth Warren said the results of November’s election showed the state’s Gateway Cities also have power in numbers.

Sentinel & Enterprise - Warren: Government should act as a partner with Gateway Cities

Tue, 19 Mar 2013 00:00:00 GMT

Government should act as a good partner to finance improvements in education, research and infrastructure that will spur private investment in these and other areas, U.S. Sen. Elizabeth Warren said Monday.

Worcester Telegram & Gazette - Warren urges federal-cities partnerships

Tue, 19 Mar 2013 00:00:00 GMT

As the economy emerges from a great recession, the federal government is the best resource to get the country aimed in the right direction, Sen. Elizabeth Warren said Monday.

Telegram & Gazette - Forum touches on taxes, transit

Tue, 19 Mar 2013 00:00:00 GMT

Increasing public transportation offerings and access is crucial to economies in cities like Worcester, but meeting that demand must be tempered with the need to keep taxes low enough to help businesses grow, members of a forum at Clark University said Monday.

Springfield Republican - Senator Elizabeth Warren says investments, like those proposed by Gov. Patrick in conjunction with tax hike, crucial to survival of gateway cities in Massachusetts

Mon, 18 Mar 2013 14:04:00 GMT

During a conversation with the editors of news outlets from the state's struggling gateway cities, Sen. Elizabeth Warren, D-Mass., said that she believes intelligent investments are the only way to ensure their survival and potentially spark their resurgence.

The Lowell Sun - Making a case for investing in RTAs

Sun, 17 Mar 2013 00:00:00 GMT

Motorists in Massachusetts spend $5.4 billion on gasoline per year, and only a small fraction it (gas taxes, station employees' wages) winds up benefiting the local economy.

GoLocalWorcester - Report: Better Public Transit Could Boost MA's Gateway City Economies

Sat, 16 Mar 2013 00:00:00 GMT

MassINC and the Gateway Cities Innovation Institute released a new report showing just how much public transit is affecting growth in Mass. Gateway Cities, like Worcester.

The Daily Item - Transportation needs take focus at NSCC forum

Fri, 15 Mar 2013 11:47:00 GMT

The need to address the city’s public transportation shortcomings topped the agenda when MassINC brought its traveling forum to North Shore Community College Thursday.

Sentinel and Enterprise - Poll: Most see trans system as fair or good, half willing to pay $100 more

Thu, 14 Mar 2013 00:00:00 GMT

Roughly half of voters are generally receptive to the idea of paying $100 more per year in taxes to improve the conditions of roads and public transit in Massachusetts, according to new research published by MassINC Polling group that shows varying levels of support for different means of generating additional tax revenue.

Lowell Sun - Study: Transit funding shifts job growth into gear

Tue, 12 Mar 2013 00:00:00 GMT

It could be a streetcar system that whisks riders from the Gallagher Terminal to downtown shops and lofts in a matter of minutes.

Sentinel & Enterprise - Bill would favor kids of guards in hiring

Wed, 06 Mar 2013 00:00:00 GMT

A bill backed by area legislators would give hiring preference to the children of corrections officers killed on duty -- an advantage that is already provided to families of police officers and firefighters.

Sentinel and Enterprise Officials at Fitchburg State forum More cash should be in transit

Tue, 05 Mar 2013 00:00:00 GMT

Local and state officials agree that investing in public transportation will lead to economic growth in Gateway Cities. How to fund those improvements is something else altogether.

Worcester Telegram & Gazette In Fitchburg, state transit improvements discussed

Tue, 05 Mar 2013 00:00:00 GMT

Last night, Ann T. Berube left a public forum and panel discussion at Fitchburg State University on regional transportation investments in Massachusetts Gateway Cities at Fitchburg State University feeling frustrated.

Sentinel & Enterprise - MassINC says public transportation fuels economy

Sun, 03 Mar 2013 00:00:00 GMT

According to a MassINC report released last week, public transportation improvements could attract businesses and residents to cities like Fitchburg and Leominster, as well as help to lower the unemployment rates these Gateway Cities face.

Sentinel & Enterprise - MassINC to hold Gateway Cities forum at FSU

Sun, 03 Mar 2013 00:00:00 GMT

MassINC and Transportation for Massachusetts will hold a public forum and panel discussion on regional transportation investments in Gateway Cities at Fitchburg State University from 4 to 5:30 p.m. on Monday.

WAMC - Think Tank Urges Transportation Investment in Mass. Gateway Cities

Thu, 28 Feb 2013 12:48:00 GMT

A new report by Massachusetts think-tank MassINC shows a significant economic impact from the lack of adequate public transportation available in Gateway Cities.

Fall River Herald - OUR VIEW Getting on board with better public transit

Thu, 28 Feb 2013 09:17:00 GMT

In the case of SRTA, hours of operation simply don’t match the hours many people work.

South Coast Today - Gateway Cities report ties transportation to economic health

Wed, 27 Feb 2013 00:00:00 GMT

A new MassINC report provides a road map for putting transportation funds to better use in once-prosperous industrial cities that have fallen on hard times and need an economic boost.

iBerkshires.com - Community Leaders Debate Transportation Future At Forum

Tue, 26 Feb 2013 15:32:00 GMT

A proposed $100 million increase in state funding for the Berkshire Regional Transit Authority may not be such a boon.

Berkshire Eagle - Transportation funds can help spur economic growth

Tue, 26 Feb 2013 15:16:00 GMT

If increases in public transportation funding do take place in Massachusetts, the Berkshire Regional Transit Authority can be a major contributor to the county's economic growth, according to a nonpartisan advocacy group.

Commonwealth Magazine - Patrick budget triples funding for RTAs

Tue, 26 Feb 2013 00:00:00 GMT

THE PATRICK ADMINISTRATION’S proposed transportation plan includes a near-tripling of the annual budget for state’s beleaguered Regional Transit Authorities, a $100 million annual increase that officials insist will trigger a hike in employment and economic growth in the Gateway Cities.

Worcester Telegram & Gazette - Report: Public transportation spending benefits Gateway cities

Tue, 26 Feb 2013 00:00:00 GMT

A new report from MassINC says the governor's proposal to increase transportation spending could be particularly important for Gateway cities such as Worcester, Leominster and Fitchburg.

WGBH - Report: Gateway Cities Underserved by MBTA

Tue, 26 Feb 2013 00:00:00 GMT

On Beacon Hill, lawmakers face an ambitious plan by Governor Patrick to overhaul transportation funding in Massachusetts.

Springfield Republican - It takes Springfield residents 15 minutes longer to take a PVTA bus to work, on average, than to drive, MassInc study says

Tue, 26 Feb 2013 00:00:00 GMT

City residents who use the bus for their commutes spend an average of 15 minutes longer getting to work each day compared with people who drive.

Taunton Daily Gazette - Report State must invest in Taunton transportation

Tue, 26 Feb 2013 00:00:00 GMT

For residents in the Gateway Cities of Fall River and Taunton, it may not come as a surprise, but a report released Tuesday by MassINC says inadequate public transportation in those communities causes service gaps for the employed, doubled commute times, and is a factor in lower-than-average work force participation.

Fall River Herald - State must reinvest in Fall River transportation

Tue, 26 Feb 2013 00:00:00 GMT

iBerkshires.com - Forum on Public Transportation Set at BCC

Mon, 25 Feb 2013 00:00:00 GMT

A public roundtable discussion on the county's transportation needs is scheduled Monday evening from 4 to 5:30 at Berkshire Community College.

NECN - Broadside: Mass. House Speaker's view on spending taxes

Wed, 20 Feb 2013 00:00:00 GMT

In the weeks since Mass. Governor Deval Patrick unveiled his tax and spending plans, phones have been ringing on Beacon Hill, and at least one poll has been taken.

South Coast Today - 'Nobody like me' in Senate, blue-collar candidate Lynch declares

Wed, 20 Feb 2013 00:00:00 GMT

Stephen Lynch brought his blue-collar message to blue-collar New Bedford Tuesday, promising to bring the voice of working families to the U.S. Senate.

The Taunton Daily Gazette - PAUL CRANEY: Jobs and the economy still a high priority

Mon, 18 Feb 2013 00:00:00 GMT

Since the release of the governor’s budget, many have made their opinions known of their opposition and fewer for their support.

CBS Boston - Democratic Primary Race Heats Up In Hunt For Vacant Senate Seat

Sat, 16 Feb 2013 00:00:00 GMT

Congressman Ed Markey has a long way to go in his hunt to fill John Kerry’s vacant Senate seat, but the Democratic hopeful is feeling confident after receiving the support of some key education groups.

Huffington Post - Ed Markey, Stephen Lynch Competitive In Massachusetts Senate Primary Poll

Fri, 15 Feb 2013 00:00:00 GMT

Massachusetts' Democratic Senate primary is shaping up to be a competitive one, according to a new poll of the race to decide who will replace Secretary of State John Kerry.

WBUR - WBUR Poll Gives Markey Slight Edge Over Lynch

Fri, 15 Feb 2013 00:00:00 GMT

A new WBUR poll (PDFs – topline, crosstabs) finds a competitive race between the two Democratic congressmen running in Massachusetts’ special U.S. Senate election.

The Washington Post - How the GOP primary could impact the LynchMarkey race in Massachusetts

Fri, 15 Feb 2013 00:00:00 GMT

Looking to gauge the chances Rep. Stephen Lynch will upset front-running Rep. Ed Markey in the Massachusetts Senate Democratic primary? Take a peek at the GOP primary.

NECN - New Mass. Senate poll shows close Dem primary

Fri, 15 Feb 2013 00:00:00 GMT

The Stephen Lynch campaign is feeling pretty good about the new Mass. Senate race poll.

Springfield Republican - Poll: Edward Markey leads Stephen Lynch by 7 points in Massachusetts U.S. Senate Democratic primary race

Fri, 15 Feb 2013 00:00:00 GMT

U.S. Rep. Edward Markey is holding the lead over U.S. Rep. Stephen Lynch in the Democratic primary for the U.S. Senate special election, according to a new poll released Friday by WBUR.

Boston Globe - Markey ahead of Lynch in new election poll

Fri, 15 Feb 2013 00:00:00 GMT

US Representative Edward J. Markey leads US Representative Stephen F. Lynch by 7 percentage points in a new poll, a clear margin, but perhaps not as wide as some political insiders would have predicted in the Democratic primary to succeed John F. Kerry in the US Senate.

The Salem News - Mayor: Program a 'helping hand'

Thu, 14 Feb 2013 00:00:00 GMT

The state’s Gateway Cities program — a subject of distrust and controversy for some in town — was the topic of a public forum last night at the Salem Five bank.

Martha's Vineyward Times - At Large: Solar dollars

Wed, 13 Feb 2013 00:00:00 GMT

The results of an inquiry into Massachusetts's growing solar energy industry, published in the winter 2013 edition of CommonWealth magazine and written by Bruce Mohl, confirms understandings popular among alternative energy skeptics.

The Springfield Republican - Editorial: Latest economic signals confound Western Massachusetts

Tue, 12 Feb 2013 00:00:00 GMT

After living through the longest recession in our lifetimes, is the Western Massachusetts economy finally on the upswing?

Tauton Daily Gazette - FOCUS: Incomplete assignment: 20 years of school reform in Bay State

Sat, 09 Feb 2013 00:00:00 GMT

Two decades after a sweeping law ushered in MCAS exams, charter schools and other major changes in the classroom, state leaders and experts say Massachusetts still has more homework to do on education reform.

The Patriot Ledger - Consumer confidence falls in Bay State

Wed, 06 Feb 2013 00:00:00 GMT

Consumer confidence fell to its lowest point in more than a year in Massachusetts, according to quarterly survey results reported by The MassINC Polling Group.

Blog from the Office of the City Manager, Lowell MA - Lowell as a Gateway City

Wed, 06 Feb 2013 00:00:00 GMT

Through the work of MassInc, with support from municipal and state officials, Massachusetts is beginning to recognize the vital role that Gateway Cities like Lowell play in the health of the Commonwealth.

Lowell Sun - Daring or dairy in Senate primary

Tue, 05 Feb 2013 00:00:00 GMT

It's a fight between the iron worker and the milkman.

Boston Business Journal - MassINC: Bay State consumers feel worse off pessimistic

Tue, 05 Feb 2013 00:00:00 GMT

More Massachusetts residents say they’re worse off now than they were just four months ago, according to poll results released today by the MassINC Polling Group.

Springfield Republican - Scott Brown opts not to run in special election to replace John Kerry

Fri, 01 Feb 2013 00:00:00 GMT

Republican Scott Brown will not jump into the U.S. Senate race to replace John Kerry, the former senator confirmed in a statement Friday afternoon.

USA Today - Mass. Senate race awaits decision by Scott Brown

Wed, 30 Jan 2013 00:00:00 GMT

Everything is ready for a Senate special election in Massachusetts – except a Republican candidate.

Patriot Ledger - Senate special election set for June 25

Tue, 29 Jan 2013 00:00:00 GMT

Massachusetts’ voters are about to face another campaign for the U.S. Senate – possibly even a primary – and South Shore party activists are already picking favorites.

Boston Globe - Put the brakes on tax breaks

Sun, 27 Jan 2013 00:00:00 GMT

TAX BREAKS for Ben Affleck. Tax hikes for everyone else.

As he calls for $1.9 billion in new taxes, that proposal didn’t add up for Governor Deval Patrick. So, he’s also proposing to cap the film tax credit at $40 million, according to CommonWealth Magazine.

Boston Globe - Scott Brown still silent on Senate campaign

Fri, 25 Jan 2013 00:00:00 GMT

The race to fill John F. Kerry’s US Senate seat is on the verge of taking final shape, with growing anxiety among Republicans that Scott Brown may sit out the contest and a pending decision by US Representative Stephen F. Lynch on whether to challenge his congressional colleague Edward J. Markey in a Democratic primary.

Wicked Local Newton - Incomplete assignment: 20 years of school reform in Bay State

Fri, 18 Jan 2013 00:00:00 GMT

Westfield Development - Gateway Cities proposes to invest in Westfield

Mon, 14 Jan 2013 00:00:00 GMT

City officials are assessing a Gateway Cities program which would aid older industrial cities with redevelopment and new economic investment.

Lowell Sun - $1.7B eyed for Gateway Cities over next decade

Mon, 14 Jan 2013 00:00:00 GMT

Cities like Lowell that were once the cornerstones of the state economy are now getting renewed attention as lawmakers look to revive these once-vibrant communities.

Springfield Republican - Gateway Cities $1.7 billion investment proposal could drive projects in Springfield, Holyoke, Pittsfield and Westfield

Mon, 14 Jan 2013 00:00:00 GMT

The Gateway Cities Innovation Institute, run by MassINC, on Thursday released a proposal for a $1.7 billion public investment in the 24 cities deemed by the legislature as “Gateway Cities.”

Sentinel and Enterprise - Proponents of Gateway Cities say development could improve economy

Sun, 13 Jan 2013 00:00:00 GMT

State officials say the success of Gateway Cities is key to strengthening Massachusetts' economy, but doing business in these underperforming areas often makes little financial sense.

Wicked Local Fall River - OUR VIEW: A costly mistake in Somerset

Sun, 13 Jan 2013 00:00:00 GMT

THUMBS UP to MassINC Gateway Cities Institute, which released a new report Thursday, calling for a $1.7 billion strategic state investment over 10 years to economic development in the commonwealth’s 24 Gateway Cities, including Fall River.

Lowell Sun - State investment called key to supporting Gateway Cities development

Sun, 13 Jan 2013 00:00:00 GMT

State officials say the success of Gateway Cities is key to strengthening Massachusetts' economy, but doing business in these underperforming areas often makes little financial sense.

Taunton Daily Gazette - PARTY LINES: MassINC calls for investment in Gateway Cities

Sat, 12 Jan 2013 00:00:00 GMT

A MassINC report released this past week calls for $1.7 billion in public investments in Gateway Cities, such as Taunton, over the next decade.

Lowell Sun-Lowell site factors in Gateway Cities focus

Fri, 11 Jan 2013 00:00:00 GMT

The city of Lowell played a major role Thursday morning as lawmakers and economic-development policy experts met to discuss a new report issued by MassINC that calls for injecting $1.7 billion into the state's 24 Gateway Cities.

Sentinel and Enterprise - Sharing visions of tomorrow for Mass. mill cities

Fri, 11 Jan 2013 00:00:00 GMT

For old industrial centers like Fitchburg, Leominster and Lowell, it was a day of possibility.

Lowell Sun - Gateway Cities like Lowell eyed for $1.7B economic boost

Thu, 10 Jan 2013 00:00:00 GMT

A new report being released by MassINC today recommends pumping $1.7 billion into Gateway Cities, such as Lowell, to help spur economic development.

Patriot Ledger - Report calls for $1.7 billion investment in Mass. cities

Thu, 10 Jan 2013 00:00:00 GMT

A state investment of $1.7 billion over the next decade would lift the economies and redevelopment of struggling urban centers outside of Boston, creating jobs and stimulating private investment, according to a new report from MassINC.

Brockton Enterprise - Brockton could benefit from investment program for gateway cities

Thu, 10 Jan 2013 00:00:00 GMT

Over the years, the city has tried different strategies to revitalize its downtown area: a new courthouse, thriving health center, vacant buildings renovated as condos.

WGBH - MassINC Calls for $1.7 Billion for Redevelopment of Gateway Cities

Thu, 10 Jan 2013 00:00:00 GMT

A new report is calling for major investment into redeveloping the real estate market in Massachusetts’ so-called “Gateway Cities.”

Tauton Daily Gazette - MassINC calls for investment in redevelopment of Gateway Cities

Thu, 10 Jan 2013 00:00:00 GMT

A $1.7 billion strategic investment by the state over 10 years would dramatically boost the economic climates of two-dozen small and midsize Gateway Cities such as Taunton and Fall River, according to a report MassINC released Thursday.

Springfield Republican - Gateway Cities report proposes $1.7 billion public investment in underperforming cities - including Springfield and Holyoke

Thu, 10 Jan 2013 00:00:00 GMT

An institute dedicated to strengthening Massachusetts’ Gateway Cities is proposing a $1.7 billion public investment in those cities, which include Springfield, Holyoke, Pittsfield and Westfield.

South Coast Today - MassINC urges public funds to spur private investment in Gateway Cities

Thu, 10 Jan 2013 00:00:00 GMT

MassINC is calling for a 10-year infusion of $1.7 million in public money to jump-start private investment in the state's 24 Gateway Cities in a process it calls "transformative redevelopment."

CNN - Poll: Brown in good position to win ticket back to Senate

Thu, 20 Dec 2012 11:40:00 GMT

Outgoing Republican Sen. Scott Brown may not be gone from Capitol Hill for long, according to a new poll of Massachusetts voters.

Politico - Mass. poll: Scott Brown for John Kerry's seat

Thu, 20 Dec 2012 11:36:00 GMT

Outgoing Sen. Scott Brown might not be out of Washington for long.

Stage Is Set for a Scott Brown Comeback If He Wants One

Thu, 20 Dec 2012 11:30:00 GMT

WBUR poll of 500 registered voters finds U.S. Sen. Scott Brown is in a strong position should there be a special election to fill U.S. Sen. John Kerry’s seat.

My Fox Boston - Poll shows Brown leads as potential Kerry replacement

Thu, 20 Dec 2012 11:15:00 GMT

A WBUR/MassINC Poll released Thursday shows current outgoing Mass. Senator Scott Brown is in good position to win a potential special election to replace Sen. John Kerry.

WBUR Poll: Brown Would Be In Strong Position For Special Election

Thu, 20 Dec 2012 09:26:00 GMT

A WBUR poll of 500 registered voters (PDFs – topline, crosstabs) finds U.S. Sen. Scott Brown is in a strong position should there be a special election to fill U.S. Sen. John Kerry’s seat.

The Atlantic - The Decline of the 'Great Equalizer'

Wed, 19 Dec 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Massachusetts, home to America's best schools and best-educated workforce, has seen income inequality soar. Why? The poor are losing an academic arms race with the rich.

Boston Globe - Holyoke Mayor Alex Morse’s too-sudden shift on casinos

Wed, 05 Dec 2012 16:47:00 GMT

ALEX B. Morse’s election as mayor of Holyoke last year was bigger than any single issue, but his opposition to a casino in the city was a major factor.

Wicked Local Melrose - Sen. Katherine Clark: Building a modern, sustainable transportation system

Wed, 05 Dec 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Massachusetts needs a public transportation system that is sustainable for the long-term with sufficient capital to keep fares reasonable, expand routes, modernize our infrastructure, and improve services.

Boston Magazine - Youngest Mayor in Massachusetts Becomes Youngest Flip-Flopping Mayor in Massachusetts

Mon, 26 Nov 2012 15:23:00 GMT

Alex Morse, the anti-casino mayor of Holyoke, announced today that he suddenly embraces casinos.

WGBY - Connecting Point 11/26/12

Mon, 26 Nov 2012 00:00:00 GMT

MassINC's Research Director and Executive Director of the Gateway Cities Innovation Institute, Benamin Forman, on WGBY's Connecting Point.

Northampton Daily Hampshire Gazette - Alex Morse explains decision to consider Holyoke casino

Mon, 26 Nov 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Over cries of “liar” and “sellout,” Holyoke Mayor Alex Morse officially opened his city to the possibility of a resort casino Monday.

Masslive.com - Holyoke Mayor Alex Morse to announce casino resort plan for Mountain Park with Eric Suher

Sat, 24 Nov 2012 00:00:00 GMT

In a stunning reversal, Mayor Alex B. Morse will announce Monday he is mounting a bid to bring a casino gambling resort to Mount Tom in partnership with Holyoke native and entertainment mogul Eric Suher.

Boston Globe Blogs - Holyoke Mayor Alex B. Morse backs new casino proposal in reversal of anti-casino stand

Sat, 24 Nov 2012 00:00:00 GMT

In a surprising reversal of his steadfast anti-casino position, Holyoke Mayor Alex B. Morse plans to announce Monday that he is supporting a proposal to develop a gambling resort off Route 91 in his economically struggling city, potentially realigning the competition for the sole resort casino license in Western Massachusetts.

Boston Business Journal - Boston World Partnerships shuttered

Wed, 21 Nov 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Commonwealth Magazine reported Thursday that Boston World Partnerships, an economic development networking company, is shutting down.

South Coast Today - Gateway Cities propelled Warren over Brown in Senate race

Mon, 19 Nov 2012 14:23:00 GMT

Boston Mayor Tom Menino's voter-turnout machine got much of the credit for propelling Elizabeth Warren past Sen. Scott Brown last week, but the focus on Boston obscures a much more significant shift in support in the state's Gateway Cities.

Norwich Bulletin - Rick Holmes: Can’t we just be friends?

Mon, 19 Nov 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Congressional leaders met with President Barack Obama on Friday at the White House, where they took the next steps in the dance of power that will shape the history of the next two years.

Masslive.com - Letters to the Editor: Holyoke mayor misses chance on casinos

Sun, 18 Nov 2012 00:00:00 GMT

If pie-in-the-sky were a marketable commodity, Holyoke’s Mayor Alex Morse would be the hands-down winner of the Commonwealth Magazine’s pro-versus-con casino debate (reprinted in the Republican on Oct. 14).

Boston Globe - Mass. tax hike on the table for roads and transit

Sat, 17 Nov 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Nearly six years after a bipartisan commission sounded the alarm about a transportation system in a crisis so severe that it carried a shortfall of nearly $1 billion a year, Governor Deval Patrick will ask lawmakers to solve the problem with a plan that includes higher taxes.

Governing Magazine - 11 Cities in Massachusetts Band Together to Solve Urban Ills

Mon, 12 Nov 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Lowell, Mass., is less than 30 miles from Boston, but economically, demographically and educationally, the two cities are much farther apart.

Worcester Telegram & Gazette - Champion for Gateway Cities

Fri, 09 Nov 2012 15:16:00 GMT

Recently, MassINC announced plans to redouble its effort to bring focus and attention to Gateway Cities like Worcester with the launch of a new Gateway Cities Innovation Institute.

Boston Globe - Drug lab crisis calls out for corrections reform

Fri, 09 Nov 2012 00:00:00 GMT

The scandal at the state drug lab and the pending release of hundreds, possibly thousands of prisoners, is an uncomfortable reminder of the way we operate our criminal justice system even in the absence of a crisis.

Boston Innovation - Analyze the Presidential Election & Online Trends in Real-Time With Google in Boston

Tue, 06 Nov 2012 00:00:00 GMT

We live in a time when information about what is happening all around the world pours in more rapidly from a plethora of social media streams than most of us can soak in.

Boston Globe - Republican side ready for a big party in Boston

Tue, 06 Nov 2012 00:00:00 GMT

The sliders and pretzels have been ordered. Boston cover band Sweet Tooth & the Sugarbabies is on the bill. All Mitt Romney’s party at the Boston Convention & Exhibition Center needs now is a victory.

Masslive.com - Commentary: Gateway Cities Innovation Institute hopes to tap synergy of collaboration to bring about deep and meaningful change

Mon, 29 Oct 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Last week, MassINC announced plans to redouble its effort to bring focus and attention to Gateway Cities like Holyoke and Springfield with the launch of a new Gateway Cities Innovation Institute.

Eagle-Tribune - Brown confident about prospects in Merrimack Valley

Thu, 25 Oct 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Republican U.S. Sen. Scott Brown expressed confidence yesterday in his prospects in the Merrimack Valley, an area key to his securing a full term in November.

WBUR Poll: Warren Leads Brown By 5

Wed, 24 Oct 2012 09:46:00 GMT

A WBUR poll of 516 likely Massachusetts voters (PDFs — topline, crosstabs) finds Democratic challenger Elizabeth Warren leading Republican U.S. Sen Scott Brown, 48 percent to 43 percent.

WBUR - Pollster: Warren Cutting Into Brown’s Lead Among Independent Voters

Wed, 24 Oct 2012 00:00:00 GMT

A new WBUR poll shows Democratic challenger Elizabeth Warren back out in front of Republican U.S. Sen. Scott Brown in the race for the U.S. Senate.

RTT News - Warren Jumps Back Into Lead In Massachusetts Senate Race

Wed, 24 Oct 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Democrat Elizabeth Warren has jumped back into the lead in the volatile Massachusetts Senate race against Republican Sen. Scott Brown, R-Mass., according to a WBUR poll.

Peabody Patch - Warren Up in Polls, Herald Endorses Brown: Who's Winning?

Wed, 24 Oct 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Democrat Elizabeth Warren is up by five points over incumbent Republican Scott Brown in the latest WBUR/MassINC poll of the Massachusetts senate race.

Huffington Post - Elizabeth Warren Maintains Momentum in Massachusetts, Poll Shows

Wed, 24 Oct 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Elizabeth Warren has a 5-point lead over Sen. Scott Brown (R-Mass.) according to a MassINC/WBUR poll released Wednesday.

Eagle-Tribune - A female focus

Wed, 24 Oct 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Candidates stress women's issues in Senate race home stretch

Boston Globe - Elizabeth Warren leads Scott Brown by 5 points in latest US Senate race poll

Wed, 24 Oct 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Democratic challenger Elizabeth Warren leads Republican incumbent Scott Brown in the latest poll of their US Senate race.

Worcester Telegram & Gazette - Looking deep inside political polls

Wed, 24 Oct 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Buried deep within the guts of today's complex, detailed and ubiquitous political polls, astute poll readers can find “crosstabs,” lesser categories of polling information that nonetheless provide important insight into voters' preferences at more granular levels such as geography, age, educational background, and so on.

GoLocal Worcester - NEW: Warren Leads by 5 in Latest Poll

Wed, 24 Oct 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Democratic challenger Elizabeth Warren leads incumbent Republican Senator Scott Brown by 5 points, 48 percent to 43 percent, in the highly-contested Massachusetts Senate race, according to a WBUR and MassINC Polling Group survey released Wednesday.

Masslive.com - Gateway Cities Innovation Institute: Western Massachusetts residents tapped to contribute to statewide conversation

Mon, 22 Oct 2012 00:00:00 GMT

The Gateway Cities Innovation Institute might sound like just another project at just another think tank, but to the community leaders named as fellows to the Institute this week, it represents a chance to have a voice.

Fall River Herald News - GUEST OPINION: New institute devoted to Gateway City growth and renewal

Sun, 21 Oct 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Last week, MassINC announced plans to redouble its effort to bring focus and attention to Gateway Cities like Fall River with the launch of a new Gateway Cities Innovation Institute.

PBS Newshour - Gwen's Take: Why Binders and Big Bird Don't Matter

Fri, 19 Oct 2012 00:00:00 GMT

It's all personal. Watching the candidates for president circle each other in their town hall cage match this week, I was reminded that this is all that matters in politics.

Sentinel & Enterprise - Gateway Cities initiative holds promise for Fitchburg

Thu, 18 Oct 2012 13:30:00 GMT

Onetime booming manufacturing cities, such as Lowell and Fitchburg, have an official new friend following Wednesday's launch of a new independent think tank aimed at bolstering their educational and economic development.

Lowell Sun - Gateway Cities partnership seen boosting Lowell

Thu, 18 Oct 2012 11:30:00 GMT

Onetime booming manufacturing cities, such as Lowell and Fitchburg, have an official new friend following Wednesday's launch of a new independent think-tank aimed at bolstering their educational and economic development.

Masslive.com - Boston-based think tank creates new institute to revitalize struggling mid-size cities like Springfield, Holyoke and Lowell

Thu, 18 Oct 2012 11:16:00 GMT

Boston-based think tank MassINC on Wednesday launched a new center dedicated to revitalizing former manufacturing centers such as Springfield and Lowell, cities struggling to woo new business as they grapple with chronic issues of crime, poverty and unemployment.

Fall River Herald News - New institute to help revitalize Fall River, fellow gateway cities

Thu, 18 Oct 2012 00:00:00 GMT

MassINC, a Boston-based independent think tank, announced Wednesday the creation of the Gateway Cities Innovation Institute, an entity dedicated to revitalizing former manufacturing “gateway” communities like Fall River and New Bedford.

Worcester Telegram & Gazette - Business briefs

Thu, 18 Oct 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Gateway innovation
Independent think tank MassINC announced the creation Wednesday of the Gateway Cities Innovation Institute, a Boston-based institute dedicated to revitalizing former manufacturing centers that it terms Gateway Cities.

Lowell Sun - Gateway Cities Innovation Institute unveiled

Wed, 17 Oct 2012 16:38:00 GMT

The Gateway Cities Innovation Institute, a new entity that will use research, polling and policy development for the purpose of revitalizing former manufacturing centers in the state, will be officially launched at the Statehouse at 2 p.m. Wednesday.

WWLP-22News - Gateway Cities Innovation Institute launches

Wed, 17 Oct 2012 13:49:00 GMT

ot of state investment goes into Boston, but a new political force called the Gateway Cities Innovation Institute will make sure the rest of the state is given due attention.

Worcester Telegram & Gazette - Worcester, Fitchburg get Gateway Cities designation

Wed, 17 Oct 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Independent think tank MassINC today announced the creation of the Gateway Cities Innovation Institute, a Boston-based institute dedicated to revitalizing former manufacturing centers that it terms Gateway Cities.

Boston Globe - New Bedford dares to dream

Sun, 14 Oct 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Bobbing along the Acushnet River on a sparkling morning, you get the sense this storied and long-pummeled city might be on the brink of something great.

South Coast Today - New Gateway Cities institute to launch Wednesday

Sat, 13 Oct 2012 00:00:00 GMT

The push by Gateway Cities to gain statewide clout is becoming institutionalized — literally — with the launch of a new policy institute.

Hamilton Wenham Patch Third Party Candidate

Fri, 12 Oct 2012 00:00:00 GMT

For a recent Fox 25 debate, U.S. Rep. John Tierney chose not to attend. But now, another local news station is asking another candidate to do the same.

Fox News - Newest Kennedy candidate drawn into debate in closing weeks of bid for Frank's seat

Thu, 11 Oct 2012 00:00:00 GMT

The newest member of the Kennedy family to enter politics appears well positioned to win a congressional seat for Democrats in Massachusetts, but not before at least one TV debate in which his Republican opponent will try to expose his inexperience.

Boston Globe - Kennedy and Bielat clash on jobs, campaign laws in debate

Thu, 11 Oct 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Republican Sean Bielat and Democrat Joseph P. Kennedy III faced off in their second debate Wednesday in the race for the congressional seat being vacated by US Representative Barney Frank, and though the liberal stalwart was not in attendance, his presence was still felt.

Boston Herald - Joe Kennedy III, Sean Bielat trade jabs

Thu, 11 Oct 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Democrat Joseph P. Kennedy III and Republican Sean Bielat traded barbs on campaign finance yesterday, with Kennedy saying his opponent turned down an offer to keep super PAC money out of the race while Bielat painted his challenger as a deep-pocketed youngster simply interested in a political career.

MassLive.com - Point / Counterpoint: Holyoke Mayor Alex Morse and Springfield Mayor Domenic Sarno write dueling casino commentaries in CommonWealth Magazine

Thu, 11 Oct 2012 00:00:00 GMT

In commentaries posted to the website of CommonWealth Magazine today, Holyoke Mayor Alex B. Morse and Springfield Mayor Domenic J. Sarno take opposite views of the potential impacts a casino can bring to a community.

WPRI - Congressional Candidates Face Off in Mass

Wed, 10 Oct 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Democrat Joseph Kennedy III and Republican Sean Bielat are both looking to succeed Congressman Barney Frank.

Brookline Patch - Kennedy Agrees to One More TV Debate

Wed, 10 Oct 2012 00:00:00 GMT

One more debate added to the schedule for the Mass. Fourth District race, Boston.com reports that Joseph Kennedy III agreed to meet his opponent one more time. The debate will be Oct. 24, on Fox 25.

Fall River Herald News - Bielat, Kennedy spar on aways to achieve the American Dream

Wed, 10 Oct 2012 00:00:00 GMT

With less than a month remaining until voters decide the 4th Congressional District’s next representative, the two candidates seeking the seat attempted to lay out their differences Wednesday and explain how they will help citizens achieve the American Dream.

Foxborough Patch - 2 New Polls Show Mixed Results in Warren/Brown Race

Wed, 10 Oct 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Two new polls released Tuesday show a race that has yet to have a clear leader in the campaign to represent Massachusetts in the Senate.

Examiner - Republican Senate majority likely on election day

Tue, 09 Oct 2012 00:00:00 GMT

A WBUR/MassINC poll released today shows Republican Senator Scott Brown leading 48 percent to 45 percent over Democratic challenger Elizabeth Warren in the Massachusetts senate race.

Talking Points Memo - Poll: Brown Overtakes Warren, Leads By 3 In Massachusetts

Tue, 09 Oct 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Sen. Scott Brown (R-MA) has taken the lead in the marquee U.S. Senate race playing out in Massachusetts, according to a new poll out Tuesday.

The latest survey from MassINC Polling Group shows Brown leading Democratic challenger Elizabeth Warren among likely Bay State voters (including leaners), 48 percent to 45 percent.

WBUR Poll: Brown Leads Warren By 4 Points

Tue, 09 Oct 2012 00:00:00 GMT

A new WBUR poll (PDFs — topline, crosstabs) finds a turn in the U.S. Senate race. Republican incumbent U.S. Sen. Scott Brown now leads his Democratic challenger, Elizabeth Warren, 47 to 43 percent. The survey of likely voters, conducted Oct. 5-7, has a 4.4 percent margin of error.

America Now - Polls are mixed ahead of third Senate debate

Tue, 09 Oct 2012 00:00:00 GMT

One day before Democratic candidate Elizabeth Warren will face off against Sen. Scott Brown, new numbers are showing just how tight the race really is.

Boston Globe - Brown retakes lead from Warren in new poll

Tue, 09 Oct 2012 00:00:00 GMT

US Senator Scott Brown has regained a lead over Democratic challenger Elizabeth Warren in a new WBUR-MassINC poll, after a string of polls showed Warren with the lead. The poll is the first since Brown and Warren’s second debate at the University of Massachusetts Lowell on Oct. 1.

Boston Globe - Joseph Kennedy III, under pressure, agrees to another televised debate with Sean Bielat

Tue, 09 Oct 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Democratic congressional candidate Joseph P. Kennedy III, under pressure to agree to more debates, has scheduled another televised faceoff with his Republican opponent, Sean Bielat.

Kennedy and Bielat have also agreed to two debates that will not be broadcast as widely: a MassINC forum in Fall River Wednesday, which will be broadcast on local TV and radio; and a League of Women Voters forum on Monday in Wellesley, which will not be broadcast.

Policymic - Mass Senate Race: Brown Warren Debate Schedule and Polls

Tue, 09 Oct 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Another day, another poll in the U.S. Senate race in Massachusetts between Republican Senator Scott Brown and Democrat Elizabeth Warren.

Fall River Herald News - No more seats for Kennedy, Bielat debate on Wednesday

Sun, 07 Oct 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Seating for Wednesday’s debate between Republican Sean Bielat and Democrat Joseph Kennedy has been closed.

Fall River Herald News - Kennedy-Bielat debate all booked up

Thu, 04 Oct 2012 00:00:00 GMT

No seats remain, but a waiting list has been started for an Oct. 10 senatorial debate between Republican Sean Bielat and Democrat Joseph Kennedy III.

Bangor Daily News - Republicans cheer internal poll showing Maine’s Senate race tightening

Wed, 03 Oct 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Charlie Summers’ Senate campaign and the Republican party’s Senate campaign arm are cheering the release of polling data this week that show independent former Gov. Angus King’s lead in the race for Maine’s open U.S. Senate seat tightening to a four-point advantage over Summers.

Salem News - Tierney or Tisei? 2 independent polls differ widely

Tue, 02 Oct 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Political polls aren’t much different than New England’s autumn weather: if you don’t like the climate out there, wait a few minutes.

Talking Points Memo - Two New Polls Show Warren Leading Brown In Mass.

Mon, 01 Oct 2012 10:39:00 GMT

Elizabeth Warren continues to hold the lead over Sen. Scott Brown (R-MA) that she built in the weeks following the Democratic National Conventio, a pair of new polls show.

WBUR - Warren Maintains Narrow Lead In Latest WBUR Senate Poll

Mon, 01 Oct 2012 10:36:00 GMT

The latest WBUR poll of 504 likely voters (PDFs – topline, crosstabs) finds a still tight race between Republican incumbent U.S. Sen. Scott Brown and his Democratic challenger, Elizabeth Warren, with Warren leading Sen. Brown by two points, 46 to 44 percent. The survey, conducted Sept. 26-28 by MassINC Polling Group, has a 4.4 percent margin of error.

National Journal - Warren Edges Brown in Another Poll

Mon, 01 Oct 2012 10:33:00 GMT

A second poll in as many days shows Democrat Elizabeth Warren with a slight lead over Sen. Scott Brown, R-Mass., propelled by President Obama's 2-to-1 advantage in the Bay State.

NECN - Tisei leads Tierney in new poll

Mon, 01 Oct 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Posing for pictures and shaking hands during a day of retail politicking at the Topsfield Fair, it was easy for Republican congressional candidate Richard Tisei to have a smile on his face: A new Boston Globe poll showed him opening up a surprising 6-point lead over incumbent eight-term Democrat John Tierney.

Wicked Local Wareham - Light edge to Warren over Brown in latest poll

Mon, 01 Oct 2012 00:00:00 GMT

A WBUR poll conducted after Elizabeth Warren and Sen. Scott Brown held their first debate showed Warren with a two-point edge over Brown, a margin within the poll's 4.4 percent margin of error. The poll of 504 likely voters, conducted by the MassINC Polling last Wednesday, Thursday and Friday, showed Warren up 46-44, with 9 percent of those surveyed undecided.

Masslive.com - Emotions high outside Tsongas Center in Lowell as Scott Brown and Elizabeth Warren take stage for 2nd debate

Mon, 01 Oct 2012 00:00:00 GMT

With more than 4,500 in attendance to see Republican U.S. Sen. Scott Brown and Democrat Elizabeth Warren take the stage in their second debate, the real passion was found with the hundreds of supporters camped outside the Tsongas Center at the UMass-Lowell campus.

Hamilton-Wenham Patch - Regional Student: First Congressional Debate Offers Voters a Clear Choice

Sun, 30 Sep 2012 00:00:00 GMT

On Thursday afternoon, the voters of the Massachusetts Sixth Congressional District were given their first chance to see the Congressional candidates spar on a variety of issues at North Shore Community College in Lynn - hosted by MassINC.

Gloucester Times - Congressional rivals face off over range of issues

Fri, 28 Sep 2012 14:52:00 GMT

Despite focus this week on the candidates’ tax returns and Congressman John Tierney’s ongoing family woes, neither issue arose yesterday as Democrat Tierney, Republican Richard Tisei and Libertarian Daniel Fishman met in debate for the first time during this 6th Congressional District race.

The Daily Item - 6th District rivals square off in feisty Lynn debate

Fri, 28 Sep 2012 14:15:00 GMT

U.S. Rep. John Tierney and Republican Richard Tisei drew cheers and some boos from a North Shore Community College audience that listened Thursday as the pair jabbed at one another over campaign financing, tax cuts and bipartisanship.

North Shore Community College hosted Thursday’s debate sponsored by MassInc., Lynn Area Chamber of Commerce, Lynn Business Partnership and the North Shore Latino Business Association.

WBUR - Tierney, Tisei Face Off In Testy 6th District Debate

Fri, 28 Sep 2012 13:46:00 GMT

The candidates in the 6th Congressional District, on the North Shore — including Democratic U.S. Rep. John Tierney and his Republican rival, Richard Tisei — debated for the first time in Lynn Thursday.

Wicked Local Saugus - Tierney, Tisei lock horns at Lynn debate

Fri, 28 Sep 2012 13:35:00 GMT

U.S. Congressman John Tierney shared a stage with both of his opponents in the fight to keep his seat for the first time on Thursday afternoon, as he traded sharp political barbs with Republican Richard Tisei and Libertarian Daniel Fishman over Medicare, the Affordable Care Act, and creating and keeping jobs.

Boston Herald - Richard Tisei keeps family scandal out of debate with John Tierney

Fri, 28 Sep 2012 10:26:00 GMT

Things got testy, but the involvement of U.S. Rep. John Tierney’s family in an illegal gambling ring never came up during a one-hour-plus debate yesterday with the Salem Democrat and Republican challenger Richard Tisei.

Boston Globe - Tierney, Tisei keep it civil in first debate

Fri, 28 Sep 2012 09:56:00 GMT

US Representative John F. Tierney and his Republican challenger, Richard R. Tisei, sparred Thursday over taxes and Washington gridlock in a surprisingly civil debate that was notable for what was never mentioned: how much Tierney might have known about the illegal gambling ring that was run by his wife’s brothers.

But in their first debate, Tisei, a former state senator from Wakefield, did not mention the issue. Speaking to reporters after the debate, he said he wanted to respect the organizers at MassINC, a think tank, who wanted to keep a strict focus on jobs, the economy, and the middle class. Still, MassINC officials said the candidates were free to bring up any issue.

Lowell Sun - Tierney, Tisei clash in first debate

Fri, 28 Sep 2012 00:00:00 GMT

U.S. Rep. John Tierney linked his Republican opponent, Richard Tisei, to "extremist" Republicans, while Tisei described Tierney as a shill for Washington Democrats Thursday in their first debate in a hotly contested 6th Congressional District campaign.

Wicked Local Newton - Kennedy, Bielat trade jabs during first debate

Fri, 28 Sep 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Democrat Joe Kennedy III and Republican Sean Bielat heated up the Fourth Congressional District race during a Sept. 27 debate on WCVB’s “On the Record,” where Bielat attacked Kennedy’s qualifications, while Kennedy touted his efforts to reach out to voters and give everyone “access to opportunity.”

WGBH - John Tierney Versus the Media

Fri, 28 Sep 2012 00:00:00 GMT

As Congressman John Tierney seeks re-election, family may be his biggest liability. Last year, Tierney's wife spent a month in prison after she was convicted of helping her fugitive brother file false tax returns — and Tierney's family ties have loomed large in media coverage of his race against Republican Richard Tisei.

Tierney Tisei clash in Mass 6th District debate

Thu, 27 Sep 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Democratic U.S. Rep. John Tierney and his Republican challenger, Richard Tisei, wrangled over who would be more politically independent and a better fighter for the middle class during the first debate in the state's 6th Congressional District contest.

WHDH - Tierney, Tisei clash in 6th District debate

Thu, 27 Sep 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Democratic U.S. Rep. John Tierney and his Republican challenger Richard Tisei wrangled in their first debate over who would be more independent if elected to represent Massachusetts' 6th Congressional District.

NECN - Candidates for Mass.'s 6th District clash in debate

Thu, 27 Sep 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Democratic U.S. Rep. John Tierney and Republican challenger Richard Tisei confronted one another in their first debate in the race to represent the Bay State's 6th Congressional District.

CBS Boston - Rep. Tierney & Tisei Square Off In First Debate

Thu, 27 Sep 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Fox 25 - Tierney, Tisei clash in Mass. 6th District debate

Thu, 27 Sep 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Wicked Local Saugus - Candidates in 6th District race to debate ‘American Dream’

Wed, 26 Sep 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Democratic Congressman John Tierney, Republican challenger Richard Tisei and independent challenger Daniel Fishman will square off on policy issues related to the “American Dream” in a debate led by CommonWealth magazine and partners in the 6th Congressional District Thursday, Sept. 27, 3 p.m. in the Thomas McGee Building at the Lynn campus of North Shore Community College, 300 Broad St., Lynn.

CBS Springfield - 1st debate planned in Mass. 6th district race

Mon, 24 Sep 2012 00:00:00 GMT

The candidates in the hotly contested 6th Congressional District race in Massachusetts are preparing for their first debate.

Salem News - Attack of the TV Ads

Fri, 21 Sep 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Unless you’re very skillful with your Tivo, you were likely introduced this week to just how nasty the congressional race in the Massachusetts 6th District has become.

The Herald News - Bielat, Kennedy agree to Oct. 10 debate at Fall River's ATMC

Fri, 21 Sep 2012 00:00:00 GMT

As unemployment numbers climb way too high, and families watch as their homes are foreclosed upon, many are watching firsthand as the American dream fades away.

Miford Patch - Kennedy Agrees to Debate Appearances; Bielat "Disappointed" with Announcement

Thu, 20 Sep 2012 10:26:00 GMT

As the general election race for the Fourth Congressional District heats up, so begins a debate about debates.

WBUR Senate Poll: Warren Leads Brown By 5

Wed, 19 Sep 2012 10:18:00 GMT

A WBUR poll of 507 likely Massachusetts voters (PDFs — topline, crosstabs) finds Democratic challenger Elizabeth Warren leading Republican incumbent U.S. Sen. Scott Brown, 45 percent to 40 percent. The survey has a 4.4 percent margin of error.

The WBUR poll, conducted Sept. 15-17 by the MassINC Polling Group, is the fourth released this week to find Warren making gains.

Talking Points Memo - Poll: Warren Up 5 In Mass. Senate Race

Wed, 19 Sep 2012 10:13:00 GMT

Massachusetts Democratic senate candidate Elizabeth Warren claims a lead in another post-convention poll, with a new survey out Wednesday showing her leading Sen. Scott Brown (R-MA) by 5 points.

Boston Globe - New poll shows Scott Brown leading Elizabeth Warren, after four other polls showed Warren ahead

Wed, 19 Sep 2012 00:00:00 GMT

A new poll shows US Senator Scott Brown with a lead over Elizabeth Warren, a break from a string of four previous polls that showed Warren leading the race.

Lowell Sun - Tierney edging out Tisei in 6th District Congressional race

Fri, 14 Sep 2012 00:00:00 GMT

U.S. Rep. John Tierney is leading Republican Richard Tisei by 7 points among likely voters, according to a new poll in the 6th Congressional District.

The poll gives Tierney a 39 percent to 32 percent edge over Tisei. Libertarian Daniel Fishman received 6 percent support.

The poll was commissioned by WBUR and conducted by the MassINC Polling Group.

Boston Globe - Tierney up seven points on Tisei in race for Congress, new poll says

Thu, 13 Sep 2012 14:16:00 GMT

As Republican Richard Tisei prepared to present Democrats who are backing his campaign for Congress, a new poll shows his opponent, US Representative John Tierney, leading Tisei by seven points.

The WBUR poll, conducted by the MassINC Polling Group, showed 22 percent of the 401 likely voters surveyed were undecided, but 39 percent backed Tierney, compared to 32 percent for Tisei.

Marblehead Reporter - Poll: Tierney leads Tisei by 7 points in Congressional race

Thu, 13 Sep 2012 00:00:00 GMT

As Republican Richard Tisei prepares to announce Democrats who are behind his campaign for Congress, a new poll shows his opponent, Rep. John Tierney, leading Tisei by 7 points.

The WBUR poll, conducted by the MassINC Polling Group, showed 22 percent of likely voters are undecided, but 39 percent of the 401 likely voters surveyed were with Tierney compared to 32 percent for Tisei.

National Journal - Poll Shows Scandal-Plagued Tierney Ahead

Wed, 12 Sep 2012 12:06:00 GMT

Embattled Rep. John Tierney, D-Mass., leads his Republican challenger in a new poll released early Wednesday, but that survey suggests Tierney's support is soft, contributing to his vulnerability.

The poll of likely voters in Massachusetts' 6th District, conducted by the MassINC Polling Group for WBUR-FM, a Boston-based NPR affiliate, shows Tierney leading former state Sen. Richard Tisei, 46 percent to 34 percent. Seven percent of likely voters said they would vote for the Libertarian candidate, Daniel Fishman, while 12 percent chose another candidate or were undecided.

WBUR Poll: Tierney Leads Tisei In Tight Race

Wed, 12 Sep 2012 00:00:00 GMT

With as many as 22 percent still undecided, a WBUR poll of voters (PDFs – topline, crosstabs) in the 6th Congressional District finds incumbent Democratic Rep. John Tierney leads his Republican challenger, former state Sen. Richard Tisei, by seven points.

The survey of 401 likely voters, conducted for WBUR by the MassINC Polling Group, had a margin of error of 4.9 percent. (Here’s our conversation with the pollster.)

WBUR - Tierney Leads Tisei, But Electorate Still ‘Soft’

Wed, 12 Sep 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Republicans consider it their best chance of unseating a Democratic congressman in Massachusetts. It’s the 6th Congressional District race between embattled Democratic incumbent Rep. John Tierney and his Republican challenger, former state Sen. Richard Tisei.

Salem News - Column: Public's voice must be heard in power transition

Mon, 10 Sep 2012 00:00:00 GMT

As Massachusetts pursues agendas of water innovation and clean, renewable power, one crucial issue joins these twin courses into a single, vital current. Will public voice — the ability of communities to speak concerns and self-determine — be heard in the midst of major redevelopment and remediation projects statewide?

As Paul McMorrow notes in an Aug. 17 Commonwealth Magazine article, market forces are driving coal to extinction.

Marblehead Reporter - Candidates in 6th District race to debate 'American Dream'

Thu, 30 Aug 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Bangor Daily News - Dill says she’s gaining momentum, but the numbers don’t show it

Thu, 23 Aug 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Democrat Cynthia Dill is trying to show she has momentum in the race for Maine’s open U.S. Senate seat.

If Dill is picking up some of King’s momentum, it isn’t obvious. The Moore Consulting poll put her support level at 8 percent. In June, two public surveys, by Critical Insights and by the Boston-based MassINC Polling Group, agreed with that poll, finding 7 percent and 9 percent support for Dill respectively.

Sentinel & Enterprise - Report: Arts revitalize economies

Wed, 22 Aug 2012 00:00:00 GMT

A report by the independent think tank MassINC and the national creative economic group ArtPlace recommends investment in the arts as a means of economic revitalization for the state's 11 Gateway Cities.

Fitchburg is one of the communities designated a Gateway City.

Boston Globe - Suffolk Downs releases plans for road fixes if casino bid is successful

Wed, 22 Aug 2012 00:00:00 GMT

The flyover that Suffolk Downs plans to build on Route 1A if the track is granted a casino license, along with other road improvements, will ease area traffic and provide access for vehicles coming into the gaming resort, officials said Tuesday.

Former state transportation secretary James Aloisi previously panned the proposed flyover, or elevated road, which would allow northbound motorists to bypass the often difficult intersection on Route 1A at Boardman Street, as “an eyesore and a Band-Aid that will not solve the current congestion on Route 1A from the airport to Bell Circle,” in a CommonWealth Magazine opinion piece.

Lowell Sun - 'A validation': Lowell area designated cultural district

Wed, 22 Aug 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Other cities have bus stops, but here, signs announce "busk stops," where street musicians can perform for passersby.

Massachusetts Cultural Council Executive Director Anita Walker praised this standing invitation for an artist to attract an audience as one of the elements leading to an establishment of an official state Cultural District downtown.

The designation of the Canalway as an official cultural district follows the release of a report by independent think-tank MassINC and national creative-economic group ArtPlace, recommending investment in the arts as a means of economic revitalization for the state's Gateway Cities.

Boston Globe - Sunset the Lawrence district school monopoly

Tue, 21 Aug 2012 00:00:00 GMT

One of two kids in the Lawrence Public School system do not cross the 12th grade finish line. Even that is beyond what the "soft bigotry of low expectations" crowd can explain away on the basis of factors like poverty and family situation.

Another indication of demand comes with a June MassINC Polling Group survey of 400-plus adults in households with Lawrence public students, whether they were in charter public or district public schools.

South Coast Today - Local projects illustrate the importance of nurturing a cultural economy

Sun, 19 Aug 2012 00:00:00 GMT

University of Massachusetts Dartmouth staff are using more than $100,000 in grants to support what Dr. Matthew Roy calls the "economy of the future" — the creative one.

The creative economy is "not just about manufacturing goods and products, but it's about manufacturing experiences and images," said Roy, director of the university's Leduc Center for Civic Engagement.

A third UMass Dartmouth project that won 26,200 in funding focuses on New Bedford and other "gateway cities," which MassINC describes as historic industrial cities that face challenges in reaching their potential.

Boston Globe - Ray Flynn's pitch to Catholics

Sun, 19 Aug 2012 00:00:00 GMT

With his working-class roots, former Boston Mayor Ray Flynn definitely stands for the average guy. He’s also a pro-life Democrat, who once served as US ambassador to the Vatican.

The combination explains the true value of his television ad endorsing Republican Senator Scott Brown over Democratic challenger Elizabeth Warrren.

Catholics are not monolithic in their thinking, but they represent a constituency Brown is actively courting — and winning, according to some polling data. In a May blog post on CommonWealthMagazine.org, Steve Koczela, president of Mass Inc. Polling Group, noted that 44 percent of Massachusetts voters identify as Catholic — and that Brown had a seven-point edge with them over Warren.

Melrose Patch - How Do Candidates Spend After the Election?

Tue, 14 Aug 2012 00:00:00 GMT

We've all read campaign finance reports, but what happens to a candidate's war chest when the election is all said and done?

Wilder Fleming and Jack Sullivan at Commonwealth Magazine explored that question in an article last July, finding “former officeholders (spent) their unused campaign donations on a wide range of items and services, from cups of coffee and leased espresso machines to paintings, cars, cell phones, political contributions, and even holiday cash bonuses.”

Dorchester Reporter - Labouré College moving to Milton in 2013

Mon, 06 Aug 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Labouré College on Tuesday finalized a deal to purchase the former Aquinas College property in Milton.

Sources confirmed to the Reporter on Monday that officials from the private Catholic college, which is adjacent to Carney Hospital on Dorchester Ave., were in negotiations with the Sisters of Saint Joseph, who control the old Aquinas College campus, located next to Fontbonne Academy.

Commonwealth magazine reported in July that Merrimack College expressed interest in taking over Carney Hospital, as well as Labouré College, but a deal never came to fruition.

Poll indicates that politics tilt views on economy - The Boston Globe

Sun, 29 Jul 2012 00:00:00 GMT

How does the economic forecast look to Massachusetts voters? That increasingly depends on whether they identify with Democrats or Republicans.

A new poll released last week by The MassINC Polling Group found a growing divide on economic outlooks between supporters of Republican US Senator Scott Brown and those of Brown’s Democratic challenger Elizabeth Warren.

Sannicandro: A chance to expand the bottle bill - Wicked Local Westborough

Wed, 25 Jul 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Supporters of the expanded bottle bill got a boost last week when the Senate unexpectedly voted to include it in the legislature’s Jobs bill. This is the first time the expanded bottle bill has passed a branch of the Legislature.

The bottle bill expands a five-cent bottle deposit to include bottled water, iced tea, and other non-carbonated sports drinks that have grown in popularity since the original bottle bill was passed in 1983.

A January 2011 poll by MassINC showed that 77 percent of respondents supported expanding the bottle bill.

Senate race becomes Bay State's most expensive - NECN

Tue, 24 Jul 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Fund-raising has not been a problem for Massachusetts' U.S. Senate candidates Scott Brown and Elizabeth Warren. Donors both in and out-of-state have been padding their campaign coffers, with more than $46 million infused into the race through the end of June.

According to the new MassINC Pulse Quarterly poll, Warren has a two percent lead over Brown - 40-38 percent - a statistical dead heat.

Sen. Eldridge Announces Senate Passes the Updated Bottle Bill - Northborough Patch

Tue, 24 Jul 2012 00:00:00 GMT

The Updated Bottle Bill, which would expand the commonwealth’s 5-cent deposit on beer and soda containers to include water, juice and sports drinks, was passed by the Senate last week as an amendment to the Senate Jobs Bill, announced State Senator Jamie Eldridge, a strong supporter and co-sponsor of the bill.

Despite enjoying support from 77 percent of the public in a recent MassINC poll, endorsements from 208 cities and towns, and the support of over 385 Mass businesses, the bill has been stuck for years and was never brought up for a vote in the Senate or House until last Thursday.

Senate passes Updated Bottle Bill; Eldridge a co-sponsor - Hudson Sun

Tue, 24 Jul 2012 00:00:00 GMT

The Updated Bottle Bill, which would expand the state’s 5-cent deposit on beer and soda containers to include water, juice and sports drinks, was passed by the Senate last week as an amendment to the Senate Jobs Bill.

Despite enjoying support from 77 percent of the public in a recent MassINC poll, endorsements from 208 cities and towns, and the support of more than 385 state businesses, the bill has been stuck for years and was never brought up for a vote in the Senate or House until last Thursday, according to Eldridge’s office.

Elizabeth Warren, Scott Brown neck and neck for US Senate seat in new poll - The Boston Globe

Tue, 24 Jul 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Another poll on the Massachusetts Senate race, released this afternoon, puts Senator Scott brown and Democratic challenger Elizabeth Warren in a dead heat, with Warren holding a 40-38 lead.

The MassPulse Quarterly Poll of 500 residents aged 18 or older, conducted by The MassINC Polling Group, was the rare poll done in the depths of summer, between July 19 through July 22.

Gaming pick reaction misjudged, emails say - The Boston Globe

Fri, 20 Jul 2012 12:11:00 GMT

The newly created state gambling commission badly underestimated public reaction to the fact that Carl Stanley McGee, the man tapped to be executive director of the new panel, had been arrested in 2007 in a sexual assault on a 15-year-old boy, internal e-mails show.

Schwartzman could not be reached last night, but CommonWealth Magazine quoted her as saying that she did not have complete information at the time she predicted little controversy from the McGee appointment.

Academic offers grim outlook for gaming in Massachusetts - Burlington Union

Wed, 18 Jul 2012 00:00:00 GMT

The most enticing casino games might involve cards, dice and flashing lights, but in academic Robert Goodman’s telling, the spread of gaming across the country has been more like a collapsing string of dominoes.

“The more that this happens in Massachusetts, the more it’s going to happen in Rhode Island and Maine and all the surrounding states,” Goodman told reporters outside the Massachusetts Gaming Commission meeting on Tuesday, saying “New Hampshire is very likely to argue for several casinos.”

An unabashed critic of the gaming industry, Goodman wrote “The Luck Business” and has debated gaming with casino proponent Congressman Barney Frank in the pages of Commonwealth Magazine.

Archdiocese, city spar over buildings - The Eagle Tribune

Tue, 17 Jul 2012 14:50:00 GMT

In a city where public schools are among the worst in the state, recent efforts to open new charter schools and reduce a waiting list that is at least 2,200 kids long have run into a wall: the Catholic Church.

The Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Boston is refusing to sell several churches and schools it has closed in Lawrence to buyers who would open charter schools in the buildings, fearful that the new schools would compete with the last of the Catholic schools still operating in the city.

The church policies were first described by Commonwealth Magazine last week.

Polls indicate support for gay marriage - Seacoastonline.com

Sun, 15 Jul 2012 00:00:00 GMT

The fate of a same-sex marriage initiative on the ballot in Maine this November comes down to numbers. Two polls conducted in recent months indicate 55 percent or more of all Mainers favor the initiative, an amount slightly higher than national polling, which indicates 51 percent of Americans do not oppose same-sex marriage.

A June poll by MassINC Polling Group for WBUR in Boston showed 55 percent of Mainers favor passage of the initiative while 36 percent oppose.

'There aren't any earth-shattering events in July' -- the value of summertime polling - Bangor Daily News

Fri, 13 Jul 2012 00:00:00 GMT

The public polling available so far in Maine’s U.S. Senate race and other ballot contests has been infrequent — at least when compared to the daily polls that track movement in the presidential race.

But if there’s one thing to note about the handful of polls taking stock of Maine politics in recent months, it’s that they’ve been remarkably consistent, regardless of the pollster.

In the two days following last month’s primary, a survey done by the MassINC Polling Group for Boston public radio station WBUR found a wide lead for independent Angus King over Charlie Summers and Cynthia Dill, the former governor’s Republican and Democratic rivals for Maine’s open U.S. Senate seat.

Tax breaks for housing The Boston Globe

Mon, 09 Jul 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Half of public employers and about one-third of private companies now offer plans that limit their workers’.

Children's Hospital survey finds employers using limited, tiered networks to cut costs - Boston Globe

Wed, 20 Jun 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Half of public employers and about one-third of private companies now offer plans that limit their workers’ access to expensive hospitals and doctors, but many are confused about how these plans work, according to a survey and focus groups commissioned by Boston Children’s Hospital...

Children’s hired MassINC [Polling Group] to survey 225 Massachusetts-based employers...so it could understand what type of information employers are using to make coverage decisions.

MPG Poll: "Angus King Heavy Favorite To Replace Sen. Snowe" - WBUR

Mon, 18 Jun 2012 00:00:00 GMT

A new WBUR poll shows former Maine Gov. Angus King as the heavy favorite to replace retiring Republican U.S. Sen. Olympia Snowe. Current poll numbers have King, who is running as an independent, with 50 percent of likely voters, Republican Secretary of State Charlie Summers with 23 percent, and Democratic state Sen. Cynthia Dill with 9 percent.

King, who served as governor of the state from 1995 to 2003, benefits from a large advantage in name recognition and a 60 percent favorability. By comparison, 71 percent of voters did not offer an opinion of Dill and 57 percent did not rate Summers...

The WBUR poll of 506 likely Maine voters has a margin of error of 4.4 percentage points and was conducted by the independent think-tank MassINC Polling Group between June 13-14.

New Poll Indicates Support for King, Same-Sex Marriage in Maine - Maine Public Broadcasting Network

Mon, 18 Jun 2012 00:00:00 GMT

A new poll takes the temperature on how Mainers are feeling about the race for the U.S. Senate seat being vacated by Republican Olympia Snowe, same-sex marriage, and other issues after last week's primary...

The poll also asked voters whether they support same-sex marriage. Fifty-five percent of respondents supported, 36 percent opposed. That's a 19-point lead, and pollster Steve Koczela, [president of the MassINC Polling Group], says he thinks the referundum will likely pass in November, given other poll results.

MPG Poll: "King Holds Wide Lead in Maine" - National Journal

Mon, 18 Jun 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Independent Angus King is a strong favorite to succeed popular Sen. Olympia Snowe, R-Maine, leading the respective party nominees by a wide margin, according to a new poll released on Monday...

The poll was conducted by Boston-based MassINC Polling Group. Likely voters were interviewed on June 13 and 14 -- the two days immediately following last week's primaries.

Early poll shows wide lead for King: edge for same-sex marriage - Bangor Daily News

Mon, 18 Jun 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Former Gov. Angus King has a wide lead over his Democratic and Republican rivals in Maine’s U.S. Senate race, and supporters of same-sex marriage have an edge in their November contest, according to a new poll released Monday.

King, an independent who was Maine’s governor from 1995 to 2003, had 50 percent support in the poll, which was conducted by the MassINC Polling Group for the Boston public radio station WBUR.

Committee buries bottle bill in study, outraging supporters - Boston Globe

Fri, 15 Jun 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Supporters of expanding the bottle deposit law to cover more types of beverages were outraged by a committee vote Thursday morning that will probably torpedo the proposal until January, when the next legislative session begins...

A January 2011 poll by MassINC showed that 77 percent of respondents supported expanding the bottle bill. The support came from Democrats, Republicans, and unaffiliated voters. The bill’s strongest support was Boston and its inner suburbs, where respondents backed it at an 83 percent clip. Even respondents in the least popular region, Boston’s outer suburbs, backed the proposal at a 68 percent rate.

Parents support school improvement plan, poll shows - Boston Globe

Thu, 14 Jun 2012 00:00:00 GMT

More than two-thirds of Lawrence public school parents support the school reform plan recently announced by a state-appointed receiver, and 80 percent support the "significant involvement" of charter public schools in helping to turnaround underperforming district schools, according to a new poll sponsored by the Massachusetts Charter Public School Association (MCPSA) and conducted by The MassINC Polling Group.

Flyover sought to ease proposed Suffolk Downs casino traffic - Boston Globe

Fri, 08 Jun 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Former secretary of transportation James Aloisi had already panned the idea of a flyover as “an eyesore and a band-aid that will not solve the current congestion on Route 1A from the airport to Bell Circle,’’ in a commentary published Thursday by CommonWealth Magazine. He advocated a redesign and reconstruction of Route 1A between Logan Airport and Bell Circle and much more emphasis on public transportation.

Beacon Hill leaders stifle debate among legislators - Boston Globe

Mon, 04 Jun 2012 00:00:00 GMT

It won’t come as a bolt from the blue that freewheeling debate, robust dissent, and meaningful roll call votes have become endangered species on Beacon Hill...

But it is one thing to know in the abstract that the proceedings of the Massachusetts Legislature have little in common with the civics-class version of “How a Bill Becomes a Law.” It is something else to actually measure the disparity. That’s what MassINC, the nonpartisan Boston think tank, did this spring in CommonWealth, its quarterly magazine.

A boost for RTAs - Berkshire Eagle

Tue, 15 May 2012 00:00:00 GMT

MassInc, a nonpartisan Boston-based think tank, reported at a forum hosted Friday at BRTA headquarters that while Regional Transportation Authorities (RTAs) receive about one-third of their budget from the state, the Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority receives 57 percent of its budget from the state...

MassInc offered two revenue-generating proposals to benefit RTAs, one involving a payroll tax and a second, preferable option linked directly to transportation.

New method could enhance BRTA funding - Berkshire Eagle

Sat, 12 May 2012 00:00:00 GMT

A report by MassInc., a nonpartisan nonprofit from Boston, suggests that implementing one of two new regional funding streams would allow the state's 15 regional transportation agencies that include the BRTA to receive the additional money they need to provide services that promote economic growth...

Berkshire County currently receives $1 for every $20 in sales tax revenue that goes out of the region to pay for the MBTA, which is the lowest ratio in the state, said Ben Forman of MassInc.

"We're over-investing in Boston," Forman said, "and under-investing in the RTAs."

MassINC poll shows Sen. Scott Brown and Elizabeth Warren in tight race - Springfield Republican

Thu, 10 May 2012 00:00:00 GMT

A new poll conducted by MassINC shows Republican Senator Scott Brown slightly behind his chief Democratic rival Elizabeth Warren in the Massachusetts Senate race.

According to the survey of 438 registered voters conducted between April 25-28, Warren is leading over Brown 43 percent to 41 percent among the general population, although the difference in within the poll's margin of error, which is 4.7 percent...

Catholics preferred Brown over Warren 46 percent to 39 percent, but overall Christian voters choose the candidates at a comparable rate. Voters who identify as atheists or agnostic preferred Warren by a large margin.

Poll: Scott Brown, Elizabeth Warren still tied in Mass. Senate race - Patriot Ledger

Thu, 10 May 2012 00:00:00 GMT

U.S. Sen. Scott Brown and likely Democratic challenger Elizabeth Warren remained locked in a tight contest despite the recent controversy over Warren’s claims of a trace of Native American ancestry.

Polling data released on Thursday by the MassINC Polling Group show Warren, a Harvard Law professor and consumer advocate , with 43 percent of voter support to Brown’s 41 percent.

Report finds Steward Health Care System in the red - Boston Business Journal

Mon, 07 May 2012 00:00:00 GMT

An independent consultant hired by Rhode Island state regulators has painted an alarming financial picture of Steward Health Care System, the privately held chain operator that is aggressively buying up New England community hospitals.

Commonwealth Magazine obtained the report by consultants Enterprise Management Corp., and published some of the details contained therein, which Enterprise called financial "red flags."

Experts: Fall River behind in economic recovery, but there's hope - Fall River Herald News

Sun, 06 May 2012 00:00:00 GMT

A poll released Wednesday by the nonpartisan MassINC Polling Group reported a consumer confidence index of 79.2 for the second quarter of the year, up slightly from the prior quarter but a large improvement over October 2011, when it was 59.6.

In the poll, 41 percent said the next 12 months will bring good times for businesses, compared with 37 percent who said bad times are ahead. A year ago, only 22 percent said they predicted good times ahead.

Our Opinion: Speed, extent of hospital mergers needs close watch - Patriot Ledger

Sat, 05 May 2012 00:00:00 GMT

A looming shift in health care continues to feed a frenzy of hospital mergers and acquisitions, raising questions about whether the debt being incurred poses a threat to patient care....

The financial strain this expansion can exert on a parent company was examined this week in a story by Commonwealth magazine about Steward’s plan to buy two Rhode Island hospitals.

Commercial food waste to be banned - Boston Globe

Fri, 04 May 2012 00:00:00 GMT

State environmental officials are preparing to ban hospitals, universities, hotels, large restaurants, and other big businesses and institutions in Massachusetts from discarding food waste in the trash beginning in 2014, ameasure that in coming years they hope to extend to homes as well...

The new disposal rules come as the Patrick administration faces criticism for falling behind in its efforts to blunt the effects of climate change. A recent report by MassINC, an independent Boston think tank, found the state is on track to fall about a third behind its goal of cutting greenhouse gas emissions to 25 percent below 1990 levels by 2020.

MassINC: Consumer confidence holds steady - Boston Business Journal

Thu, 03 May 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Consumer confidence among Massachusetts residents has remained roughly even in the second quarter, the Boston Business Journal reports, citing newly released data from The MassINC Polling Group (MPG).

Guest Opinion: Mass. rising to the challenge on climate change - The Herald News

Wed, 02 May 2012 00:00:00 GMT

In 2010, the state released a serious plan showing how it would reduce emissions 25 percent below 1990 levels by 2020 — an interim target called for in the law. A recent MassINC report assessing progress finds that, while we’re making real headway, there is still a significant likelihood that we’ll fall short of this mark...

Living up to our commitment to reduce climate change will require public buy-in for implementing these kinds of small but meaningful programs. Broad pubic support will not come without communication and leadership from state officials. A MassINC survey conducted last year found that while a majority of residents support state action on climate change, Massachusetts residents have almost no knowledge of the state’s effort.

Education, economic development keys to improving cities like Worcester - Telegram & Gazette

Tue, 01 May 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Nearly all the panelists at a forum on Gateway Cities tonight agreed that improving education and attracting economic development are the keys to improving post-industrial cities like Worcester and Pittsfield, but each had a unique take on getting there...

Benjamin Forman, research director for MassINC, said Gateway Cities typically have an under-utilized workforce, and said that despite the relatively good signs Gateway Cities have shown through the economic downturn — population and job growth — residents are still struggling. The education gap needs to be addressed through increased focus on early education, an extended school day, and facility upgrades, he said.

Investing in commonwealth's Gateway Cities - Lowell Sun

Mon, 30 Apr 2012 00:00:00 GMT

During a forum at UMass Lowell on April 11, Massachusetts' 24 Gateway Cities, including Lowell, were described as desirable locations for innovators, entrepreneurs, businesses and artists. These communities boast distinctive assets, including educational and medical institutions and historic buildings.

Letter: Critique of state's emissions plan starts key dialogue - Boston Globe

Sun, 29 Apr 2012 00:00:00 GMT

The group MassINC has done a public service by providing a thoughtful critique of the Massachusetts Clean Energy and Climate Plan (“Ambitious emissions plan called lagging,” Page A1, April 22). As a state, we must begin to appreciate the long-term implications of global warming. Both the state’s ambitious plan and this analysis of the first two years of its implementation are healthy signs of a vital discussion.

Letter: Hub business leaders find green goals good for earth, bottom line - Boston Globe

Sun, 29 Apr 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Last Sunday’s story about MassINC’s report (“Ambitious emissions plan called lagging,” Page A1) was right to draw attention to Massachusetts’ nation-leading climate change goals. Lost in the speculation about progress toward the state’s goals, however, is the momentum gathering since the Clean Energy and Climate Plan was adopted. This momentum is particularly strong among business leaders, who are realizing that climate action is good for their bottom lines as well as the environment.

CW's Jack Sullivan appears on Emily Rooney

Fri, 27 Apr 2012 09:30:00 GMT

CommonWealth magazine's senior investigative reporter Jack Sullivan appeared on Emily Rooney to discuss the week in the news. Topics covered included racist tweets that hit the web following the Bruins' loss to the Washington Capitals, presidential politics, and the water bottle ban in Concord.

Editorial: Sounds of silence on Beacon Hill - Metro West Daily News

Fri, 27 Apr 2012 00:00:00 GMT

In what today’s legislative leaders say is the interest of efficiency, the amount of debate and the number of rollcall votes have decreased sharply compared to 25 years ago.

According to a new analysis by CommonWealth magazine, the House was in session for roughly 10 hours a week in the 1985-86 term.In the 2009-2010 term, the House was in session an average of five hours a week.

Report: Future hazy for Mass. greenhouse gas reduction goals - Boston Business Journal

Fri, 27 Apr 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Massachusetts could be confronted by a 2- to 6-foot rise in sea level and up to two months per year with temperatures surpassing 90 degrees if global greenhouse gas emissions are not reduced, according to a report released this month by MassINC and the Clean Energy States Alliance (CESA). Massachusetts has committed to a 25 percent reduction in greenhouse gas emissions from 1990 levels by 2020. But this report, titled “Rising to the Challenge: Assessing the Massachusetts Response to Climate Change,” questions the state’s ability to meet this goal in just eight years.

Governor hailed as champion of solar energy at Westford park - Lowell Sun

Thu, 26 Apr 2012 00:00:00 GMT

A report released this week by Mass Inc., an independent, nonpartisan think tank, assessed the state's response to climate change. It gave recommendations needed to reach Patrick's goal of reducing greenhouse-gas emissions 25 percent from 1990 levels by 2020.

When it came to solar, the report recommended the state monitor the costs of solar energy and make adjustments to its solar programs, if necessary.

Holyoke debate has begun on whether to establish director of arts, culture and tourism - The Republican

Tue, 24 Apr 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Mayor Alex B. Morse said establishing a director of arts, culture and tourism would help the city mobilize the talents and strengths of its creative sectors...

The plan gained momentum as Morse and a dozen city employees, business people and residents involved in arts and culture attended a Gateway Cities Creative Placemaking Summit on April 11 in Lowell.

Mass. efforts to reduce climate-changing emissions may fall short - ClimateWire

Tue, 24 Apr 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Massachusetts may fail to meet its 2020 goal to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, according to a new report.

The analysis from MassInc, an independent think tank, says it is not clear who is in charge of the state's overall efforts to cut emissions, and warns that there are not clear enough metrics to certify the states's progress toward its goals.

State falling short in cutting greenhouse gases - Cape Cod Times

Tue, 24 Apr 2012 00:00:00 GMT

The state is falling behind in meeting its ambitious goals to combat climate change, according to a report released by MassINC, a nonprofit, nonpartisan think tank.

"Massachusetts has been a leader," said Benjamin Foreman, one of the authors of the 127-page report. "Part of leadership is doing what you say you're going to do."

Report: Bay State's efforts to stem climate change lacking - Boston Herald

Mon, 23 Apr 2012 17:02:00 GMT

The Bay State is at risk of missing its 2020 greenhouse gas emission reduction target unless a number of immediate issues — including lack of coordination, measurement and accountability — are addressed, according to a new report released by the think tank MassINC.

Ambitious Mass. emissions plan called lagging - Boston Globe

Sun, 22 Apr 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Four years after Governor Deval Patrick announced ambitious plans to blunt the impact of global warming, the state is falling behind in its efforts to reduce emissions of gases that trap heat in the atmosphere, according to the first comprehensive review of the administration’s climate change goals.

The report by MassINC, a nonprofit, independent think tank in Boston, found that the state is not on track to meet its interim goal of cutting greenhouse gas emissions to 25 percent below 1990 levels by 2020.

Mayor calls for Office of Cultural Development creation - Holyoke Sun

Sat, 21 Apr 2012 00:00:00 GMT

This week, Mayor Alex B. Morse called for the creation of an Office of Cultural Development, which includes hiring a Director of Arts, Culture and Tourism. The City Council must approve the mayor’s requests.

The move came after Morse attended the Gateway Cities Creative Placemaking Summit in Lowell last week. Twelve city and community leaders accompanied Morse to the summit. The mayor took part in a roundtable discussion with mayors from Fitchburg, New Bedford and Worcester.

Mass. Cultural Council awards Fall River $36K for arts, cultural projects

Wed, 18 Apr 2012 00:00:00 GMT

If the city is going to attract more residents and businesses and prosper economically, arts and culture will need to play a large role, legislators and other officials said Wednesday, when state funding was announced for a group of projects in Fall River.

Event to offer a vision for North Canal District - Eagle Tribune

Thu, 12 Apr 2012 16:28:00 GMT

By bicycle, on foot and in vans, residents of the city will fan out across the neighborhood around the North Canal on Saturday, choosing their favorite spots, as well as their least-favorite, as part of a "power of 10 placemaking" exercise designed to eventually make that part of the city more liveable, accessible and enjoyable.

Gateway Cities seen spurring Lowell laurels - Lowell Sun

Thu, 12 Apr 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Yesterday, city and cultural leaders from many of the state's 24 Gateway Cities, including Lowell, Fitchburg, Worcester, Holyoke and New Bedford, gathered at the UMass Lowell Inn and Conference Center to discuss "Creative Placemaking," using arts and culture as catalysts for economic development and community revitalization.

Despite qualms, many support sex offender registry - Patriot Ledger

Wed, 11 Apr 2012 00:00:00 GMT

A new report by Commonwealth Magazine exposed some problems with the current [sex offender] registry system, specifically in the number of sex offenders who claim they are homeless or living at homeless shelters. Homeless Level 3 offenders are required to re-register with their local police agency every 30 days.

Lowell — at the Intersection of Place and Creativity - Lowell City Manager's Blog

Wed, 11 Apr 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Boston-based think tank MassINC and The Massachusetts Cultural Council brought together Gateway Cities mayors, economic development directors, corporate and civic leaders for a first-ever summit on “Creative Placemaking” – an economic development strategy that uses arts and culture investments as catalysts for growth and urban revitalization.

Some #WorcPoli reading - Worcester Magazine

Wed, 11 Apr 2012 00:00:00 GMT

CommonWealth Magazine revisits the infamous "Booze Cruise" story that led to former Worcester US Rep. and then-head of MassPort Peter Blute's resignation and de-railment of his political career, and comes up with new revelations, including the conveniening of a grand jury investigation and allegations that Blute was "set up."

One-on-One with Charlie Baker - New England Cable News

Fri, 06 Apr 2012 00:00:00 GMT

[2010 Republican gubernatorial nominee Charlie] Baker has stayed out of the political spotlight, but did notice a recent MassINC report which shows the Bay State has lost 150,000 jobs between 2000 and 2010.

"We are no where as focused as we should be on doing the things we need to do to be competitive economically," said Baker.

New tax credit program could spur new market-rate housing in mid-sized Massachusetts cities - Patriot Ledger

Sun, 01 Apr 2012 00:00:00 GMT

The state Department of Housing and Community Development is putting the finishing touches on a tax credit program for projects in these mid-sized cities that would bring new market-rate housing into the mix....

The credit would only be available for projects in one of 24 designated mid-sized cities. Some already have relatively healthy economies. But others are struggling. Most, if not all, fall under the “gateway cities” umbrella, a term promoted by local think tank MassINC and used frequently in recent years by state policymakers.

PVTA, PVPC push for dedicated regional tranportation funding source - The Republican

Mon, 26 Mar 2012 00:00:00 GMT

But what [the Pioneer Valley] really needs is a dedicated transportation funding source, like a payroll or sales tax, with the money only going to local transportation projects and local mass-transit projects, according to transportation planners who pitched the idea at a meeting Friday hosted by the PVTA and the Pioneer Valley Planning Commission.

About 40 people, including local lawmakers or their staffs, attended the forum, which also featured Benjamin K. Forman, research director at MassInc, formally known as the Massachusetts Institute for a New Commonwealth.

Planners: Transportation funding in dire straits - Daily Hampshire Gazette

Sat, 24 Mar 2012 00:00:00 GMT

More than $1.3 billion is needed to invest in the Pioneer Valley's transportation systems, and without new sources of revenue, vital infrastructure needs will go wanting.

This massive funding gap will only widen unless state lawmakers provide tools to invest in these projects at the regional level, area planning and transit leaders said Friday at a public forum at the Pioneer Valley Planning Commission.

New Strategies Suggested For Public Transit Funding - Northeast Public Radio

Fri, 23 Mar 2012 00:00:00 GMT

With the gap growing between transportation funding needs and available state and federal revenue, a Massachusetts think tank is advocating a regional approach. A report from MassINC argues that funding public transportation should follow a regional economic development strategy.

PVPC considers strategies for transit - WWLP 22 News

Fri, 23 Mar 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Western Massachusetts is in great need of transit improvements, and local leaders met in Springfield Friday morning to discuss ways to make getting around better...During the discussion, the nonpartisan think tank MassINC [shared] a report titled “Moving forward with funding: New strategies to support transportation and balanced regional economic growth.”

PVTA Holds Forum to Discuss Ways to Plug Impending Deficit - WGGB Fox 6 News

Fri, 23 Mar 2012 00:00:00 GMT

A forum was held in Springfield to discuss [how to fund transit systems around the state]. The group called MassINC suggested regions of the state could impose a small payroll tax to pay for them along with the repair and maintenance of roads and bridges. Money raised in the region would stay in the region.

City should get more from Sox, watchdog says - Boston Globe

Fri, 24 Feb 2012 00:00:00 GMT

The City of Boston should demand significantly more money from the Red Sox on game days, when the team closes a public street, Yawkey Way, and turns it over to beer vendors and sausage sellers, according to a stern warning from the state inspector general...

The letter sent last week by the inspector general’s office was first reported on the website of Commonwealth Magazine.

Mass underemployment: Data show commonwealth may lead nation in workers at jobs below their educational level - Boston Business Journal

Fri, 24 Feb 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Sum wrote a study for public policy think tank MassINC titled “Recapturing the American Dream,” based on a sample of 40,000 Census surveys that compared the current job positions to the level of education of individual workers. It found that about 375,000 people, or 10.5 percent of the population, was working below their level in 2010.

That’s slightly better than 2009, when there were 450,000 in that situation, by his calculations.

Why Michigan could be Mitt Romney's make-or−break moment - The Christian Science Monitor

Fri, 17 Feb 2012 00:00:00 GMT

A recent WBUR/MassINC survey has Obama over Romney in Massachusetts by a whopping 21 percent.

Blunt words for Brown - Boston Globe

Thu, 16 Feb 2012 00:00:00 GMT

In a recent WBUR poll, 48 percent of respondents said Brown has compromised “about the right amount’’ in Washington...Right now, Democrat Elizabeth Warren outpolls him among women, 48 percent to 41 percent, according to the WBUR poll, conducted by the MassINC Polling Group.

WBUR Poll: Most Mass. Residents Support State Health Care Law - WBUR

Wed, 15 Feb 2012 00:00:00 GMT

In the latest WBUR poll, 62 percent support the [Massachusetts health care law] and 33 percent oppose it. “Even with all the attention the Massachusetts law has gotten nationally, it really hasn’t driven down support among voters here in Massachusetts,” said Steve Koczela, president of the MassINC Polling Group, which conducted the poll.

By the numbers - New England Cable News

Tue, 14 Feb 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Steve Koczela, president of the MassINC Polling Group. MassINC, in partnership with public radio station WBUR, just polled the Scott Brown-Elizabeth Warren contest.

Koczela also weighed in on national polls between GOP presidential hopefuls Rick Santorum and Mitt Romney, and talks about a poll comparing whether Massachusetts voters would cast their ballot in favor of either Romney or President Barack Obama.

Short-term MBTA solution developing - WWLP News

Tue, 14 Feb 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Momentum appears to be building in House Speaker Robert DeLeo’s circle of deputies for a short-term solution to an MBTA budget bind that threatens to crush commuters with 40 percent fare hikes and crippling service cuts. On Tuesday afternoon, a newly promoted member of DeLeo’s leadership team, Rep. Byron Rushing (D-Boston), said the Legislature must act.

Rushing’s comments came immediately after an hour-long meeting between members of the Legislature’s MBTA caucus and RTA caucus, featuring remarks from three advocates for new revenue streams to support the state transportation system. At the meeting, officials from MassPIRG, MassINC, and A Better City pleaded with lawmakers to settle on a financing package that would help narrow a $1-billion-per-year gap between transportation system maintenance needs and actual spending.

WBUR Poll: Brown, Warren Running Neck And Neck In Senate Race - WBUR

Tue, 14 Feb 2012 00:00:00 GMT

A new WBUR poll shows U.S. Sen. Scott Brown and Democratic Senate candidate Elizabeth Warren running neck and neck. Pollster Steve Koczela said of Warren, “She’s gotten her name out there. Now many more people have a view of her and she’s translated that into higher support than she had before.” Koczela leads the polling group at the independent think-tank MassINC. He conducted the poll for WBUR.

Smaller Mass. cities seek non-profit to bolster schools - Boston Globe

Sat, 11 Feb 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Brockton’s predicament sheds light on the challenges small Massachusetts cities face in establishing partnerships with educational nonprofits or philanthropists. Such ties can play a critical role in overhauling ailing schools, providing for tutoring, teacher training, technology upgrades, afterschool activities, dental care services, and a host of other initiatives.

The Advantage of the Unknown - Worcester Mag

Thu, 09 Feb 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Lt. Governor Tim Murray may have received the best news he’s heard since his November car accident that fed the rumor mill a feast: a MassINC poll commissioned by Commonwealth Magazine found that 52 percent of 500 people over the age of 18 surveyed knew little or nothing about the crash.

MBTA faces highest deficit of any transit authority in the country - Fox 25 News

Wed, 08 Feb 2012 00:00:00 GMT

"It's hard to wrap our heads around it," stated Ben Forman, the research director at Mass Inc.- an independent think tank. He says the MBTA continues to borrow just to make ends meet. It's like someone opening a new credit card, only to make the minimum payment on an existing one. "The T has two problems. One is that it can't pay for it's normal cost every year, and the other is that it hasn't done the maintenance it needs," Forman says.

Lawmakers seeking input from experts who've pushed trans revenues - Boston Herald

Sat, 04 Feb 2012 00:00:00 GMT

MassINC research director Ben Forman plans to present a report that recommends “regional financing” for transportation services, in part by assigning a portion of payroll taxes to transportation funding and by taxing motorists based on their miles traveled.

Mass. Consumer Sentiment Soared In January - Worcester Business Journal

Fri, 03 Feb 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Consumer sentiment in Massachusetts soared more than 30 percent in January in a quarterly poll of economic conditions conducted by The MassINC Polling Group.

Massachusetts Consumer Confidence Shows Improvement - New England Public Radio

Thu, 02 Feb 2012 00:00:00 GMT

A Boston-based polling center says consumer confidence in Massachusetts is on the rise, a sign the economy may soon see more spending.

Time to take gaming seriously - Cape Cod Times

Thu, 02 Feb 2012 00:00:00 GMT

As Commonwealth magazine reports, domestic video game sales totaled $15 billion in 2010 — $5 billion more than domestic box office revenue.

Public transit should be funded by regions that benefit - Patriot Ledger

Sun, 29 Jan 2012 00:00:00 GMT

In a recent report, the independent, nonpartisan think tank MassINC mapped out a strategy to support smart transportation spending based on what our economic competitors are doing successfully in other states – paying for transportation regionally with measures approved by voters at the ballot box.

Legal community looks to lend a hand to Gateway Cities - South Coast Today

Fri, 27 Jan 2012 00:00:00 GMT

The Massachusetts Bar Association held a forum at UMass School of Law to identify ways the legal community can help old industrial cities outside Boston that struggle with high rates of unemployment and other social problems.

Panelists described Gateway Cities' predicament and existing revitalization efforts.

Benjamin Forman, researcher director at MassINC, a think tank that first identified the cities, gave a background presentation, noting the difficulties — a tendency to focus on Boston over other cities — and the opportunities in the smaller cities — existing infrastructure and under-utilized labor force.

Gov. Deval Patrick insists public will support tax on soda, candy - Boston Herald

Thu, 26 Jan 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Patrick...cited a MassINC poll claiming 77 percent of the public supports an expansion of the bottle bill.

OUR VIEW: Time to shed some light on Mass. Historical Commission - The Herald News

Thu, 12 Jan 2012 00:00:00 GMT

According to a just-released CommonWealth magazine article, excerpted in The Herald News, MHC has a history of blocking projects in an “arbitrary and capricious” manner.

Two communities that are worlds apart

Sun, 18 Dec 2011 00:00:00 GMT

“You’re talking about people in the same state, but it looks like different worlds to me,’’ said Andrew Sum, director of Northeastern University’s Center for Labor Market Studies and author of “Recapturing the American Dream,’’ an analysis of the Massachusetts economy over the past three decades. “This is not the way our state used to be - back in 1979, we were among the national leaders in income equality. Now, we’re a national leader in inequality.’’

Guest opinion: Restoring a reason to believe in the American Dream

Thu, 15 Dec 2011 00:00:00 GMT

This week, MassINC released a status report on the state of the American Dream in Massachusetts. To no one’s surprise, the new data on where we stand after 10 years of no growth, income polarization and negative labor market shifts show the dream diminished for many of our residents; one in three, the report states, now fear they will fall out of the middle class.

Spitz: The American Dream fights back - The MetroWest Daily News

Thu, 15 Dec 2011 00:00:00 GMT

“Whoa. It’s you. What happened? A lot of people have been asking about you, you know.’’

“So I’ve heard,’’ said the American Dream.

“It’s been what, 10 years, give or take?’’

“That’s what the latest MassINC report says.’’

Economic study calls 2000-10 the state's 'lost decade' - The MetroWest Daily News

Wed, 14 Dec 2011 00:00:00 GMT

One study calls 2000 to 2010 a “lost decade” for the Bay State, according to non-partisan think tank MassINC and Northeastern University’s Center for Labor Market Studies.

Two studies find growing income inequality in region - WGBH

Wed, 14 Dec 2011 00:00:00 GMT

The MassINC report, released on Dec. 14, focuses on the last 10 years, which it calls a "lost decade."

That report also found rising income inequality, coupled with growing underemployment. That, MassINC research director Ben Forman told WGBH News' Jordan Weinstein, is of particular concern.

MassInc survey finds middle class pessimism - Daily Hampshire Gazette

Mon, 12 Dec 2011 00:00:00 GMT

One third of Massachusetts residents who identify themselves as middle class fear falling into the ranks of the poor, according to a MassInc study released recently that also showed Massachusetts' middle class is doing comparatively well compared with the rest of the country. MassInc also known as the Massachusetts Institute for a New Commonwealth, created the first-of-its-kind Middle Class Index as a means of tracking how most Americans are doing at achieving the traditional elements of the American Dream, said Benjamin K. Forman, MassInc research director. MassInc is a nonprofit, independent think tank based in Boston.

Editorial: Massachusetts' Gateway Cities have plenty of room for the arts - Springfield Republican

Fri, 09 Dec 2011 00:00:00 GMT

A house is so much more than four strong walls and a roof. So often, it’s what’s inside that counts. So it is with the vision of cities being cultivated by think tank MassINC which has been working since 2007 with 11 older industrial cities – including Springfield, Holyoke and New Bedford – to help reinvent themselves to compete in the 21st century.

Reports: State faring better than most, but not out of woods yet - The Salem News

Tue, 06 Dec 2011 00:00:00 GMT

And a recent MassINC study found the state's middle class is faring pretty well, too. In terms of "Achieving the (American) Dream," the study found that "many middle-class residents were achieving pillars of the American Dream," and compared to their peers in the rest of the country, "more ... were covered by health insurance, more purchased homes, and more students went on to college and completed degrees."

Silver linings in economic clouds - Newburyport Daily News

Tue, 06 Dec 2011 00:00:00 GMT

And a recent MassINC study found the state's middle class is faring pretty well, too. In terms of "Achieving the American Dream," the study found that "many middle-class residents were achieving pillars of the American Dream," and compared to their peers in the rest of the country, "more ... were covered by health insurance, more purchased homes, and more students went on to college and completed degrees."

'Gateway City' Residents Favor The Arts - WGBH

Mon, 05 Dec 2011 00:00:00 GMT

The results from a recent poll taken by the MassINC research group shows overwhelming support for using the arts as a catalyst for economic development in the Bay State’s so-called “Gateway Cities,” such as New Bedford, Lawrence and Brockton.

Our Opinion: Better data on middle class may help avoid its demise - The Patriot Ledger

Mon, 05 Dec 2011 00:00:00 GMT

MassINC, the nonpartisan think tank based in Boston, has taken a shot at the last challenge, creating an index to track the vitality of this crucial segment of the economy.

Our opinion: No fare hikes without full accounting of rail debacle - The Patriot Ledger

Sat, 03 Dec 2011 00:00:00 GMT

State Sen. Robert Hedlund, R-Weymouth, prompted by extensive reporting by Commonwealth magazine, has asked state Inspector General Gregory Sullivan, along with two key Senate committees, to investigate the deal that led the MBTA to choose Rocla Concrete Tie Inc. for this ill-fated $40 million contract.

OUR VIEW: A welcomed barometer for the middle class - Taunton Daily Gazette

Tue, 29 Nov 2011 00:00:00 GMT

MassINC, the nonpartisan think tank based in Boston, has taken a shot at the last challenge, creating an index to track the vitality of the middle class.

WGBH "American Dream Week" features MassINC and CommonWealth magazine

Mon, 28 Nov 2011 17:17:00 GMT

Media partnership draws on new MassINC research, polling and journalism focused specifically on the American Dream

Editorial: State of the middle class - The Framingham Tab

Sun, 27 Nov 2011 00:00:00 GMT

MassINC, the nonpartisan think tank based in Boston, has taken a shot at the last challenge, creating an index to track the vitality of the middle class.

Editorial: State of the middle class - The MetroWest Daily News

Sun, 27 Nov 2011 00:00:00 GMT

MassINC, the nonpartisan think tank based in Boston, has taken a shot at the last challenge, creating an index to track the vitality of the middle class.

Many on shaky ground - Worcester Telegram & Gazette

Thu, 24 Nov 2011 00:00:00 GMT

MassINC, a nonprofit think tank, this week released its first-ever barometer of the middle class. According to the report, which is based on polls and government data, many people have achieved a version of the American Dream, but they sacrificed a lot to get there.

Middle class in Massachusetts losing hope, new study says - The Brockton Enterprise

Wed, 23 Nov 2011 00:00:00 GMT

The study by the Boston-based think tank MassINC found that one in three adults in Massachusetts worry that they may be in danger of falling out of the middle class. And it found that most have little optimism for the future, with fewer than one five in believing that the next generation will be better off financially than their own.

Middle class in Massachusetts losing hope, new study says - The Patriot Ledger

Wed, 23 Nov 2011 00:00:00 GMT

Middle class in Massachusetts losing hope, new study says - The Patriot Ledger

Wed, 23 Nov 2011 00:00:00 GMT

Middle class in Massachusetts losing hope, new study says - Fall River Herald News

Wed, 23 Nov 2011 00:00:00 GMT

STATEHOUSE ROUNDUP: Coloring by smaller numbers - Plymouth Old Colony Memorial

Sun, 20 Nov 2011 00:00:00 GMT

Negotiations over his next book advance nearly forced Patrick to miss the 15th birthday celebration for MassINC, a politically star-studded gala at the JFK Presidential Library that drew big laughs from the assembled media-political types with a mix of pre-recorded and live skits.

It's no act: Menino's at home - The Boston Globe

Wed, 16 Nov 2011 00:00:00 GMT

The background: MassINC and CommonWealth, a respected think tank and its civic-minded magazine, held a fund-raiser Thursday night at the John F. Kennedy Library. A few important people mixed with many more self-important people, all of them giving one another the kind of two-armed handshakes that make the recipients think, “Wow, this person should run for lieutenant governor.’’ Menino normally avoids these events like the plague.

VIDEO: Pols pause for 'Serious Fun' at Kennedy Library - Patriot Ledger

Mon, 14 Nov 2011 00:00:00 GMT

Except for a passing mention of former Speaker Sal DiMasi’s absence – “he had a scheduling conflict,” quipped comedian Steve Sweeney – that low hanging fruit was avoided at “Serious Fun,” a celebration of the 15th anniversary of public policy think tank MassINC, publisher of Commonwealth magazine, and a send-up of the state’s most powerful.

It wasn't St. Patrick's Day, but pols found time for easy laughs - The Boston Globe

Sat, 12 Nov 2011 00:00:00 GMT

Except for a passing mention of former Speaker Sal DiMasi’s absence - “he had a scheduling conflict,’’ quipped comedian Steve Sweeney - that low-hanging fruit was avoided at “Serious Fun,’’ a Thursday night celebration of the 15th anniversary of public policy think tank MassINC and a sendup of the state’s most powerful.

Menino does his best Corleone - The Boston Globe

Sat, 12 Nov 2011 00:00:00 GMT

Anyone who thinks Mayor Tom Menino takes himself too seriously wasn’t at the JFK Library Thursday, where MassINC celebrated its 15th anniversary with a who’s who of Massachusetts politics and the media.

Pols pause for 'serious fun' at JFK Library - Boston Herald

Fri, 11 Nov 2011 00:00:00 GMT

Except for a passing mention of former Speaker Sal DiMasi’s absence – “he had a scheduling conflict,” quipped comedian Steve Sweeney – that low hanging fruit was avoided at “Serious Fun,” a celebration of the fifteenth anniversary of public policy think tank MassINC and a send-up of the state’s most powerful on Thursday night.

Tom Menino imitates Godfather in video making light of Chiofaro flap - Boston Herald

Fri, 11 Nov 2011 00:00:00 GMT

The tongue-in-cheek, three-minute video — made for MassInc.’s 15th anniversary celebration Thursday night — shows an actor portraying International Place developer Don Chiofaro, who has battled the city over his plan to replace the Harbor Garage with a skyscraper, seeking the favor of Menino.

Steve Sweeney will put the fun in fundraiser - The Patriot Ledger

Thu, 03 Nov 2011 00:00:00 GMT

It’ll take a strong-willed, fast-on-his-feet comic to keep things in order at next Thursday’s Serious Fun, a match-up of local politicians and local members of the media.

Report spotlights MBTA financial woes - The Boston Globe

Wed, 26 Oct 2011 00:00:00 GMT

The report from MassINC proposes a regional payroll tax and a tax on miles driven to supplement or replace the T’s current reliance on a portion of the statewide sales tax, and to better support the regional transit in cities such as Springfield, Worcester, and Brockton that are even more threadbare than the MBTA.

State House Roundup: Cooling Off Period - WBUR

Fri, 30 Sep 2011 00:00:00 GMT

A poll conducted by MassINC in August found that 39 percent of voters believe corruption is widespread in state government, and 40 percent said the cause is the system and culture on Beacon Hill, not just a few bad seeds.

MCAS scores appear stuck in income gap - The Boston Globe

Sun, 25 Sep 2011 00:00:00 GMT

“Schools can’t fix these problems on their own,’’ said Benjamin Forman, research director for MassINC, a Boston think tank.

In some city schools, Forman said, one-third of students will arrive or leave during the school year as their parents look for a new job or place to live. That causes immense instability in classrooms that makes it harder for all students to learn, he said.

Guest View: State must act on behalf of mobile students - South Coast Today

Fri, 23 Sep 2011 00:00:00 GMT

Recent reports from both the Rennie Center for Education Research & Policy and MassINC highlight a range of strategies. High mobility districts can do more to engage new students and their families.

Bay State Receives Arts Grants for Gateway Cities - WGBH

Thu, 15 Sep 2011 00:00:00 GMT

Boston-based public policy institute MassInc has received a $125,000 grant to explore arts-based growth strategies for Massachusetts' so-called "gateway cities," like Lawrence, Fall River and Springfield.

WBUR Poll: Undeclared Elizabeth Warren 9 Points Behind Sen. Brown - WBUR

Tue, 06 Sep 2011 12:49:00 GMT

“[Brown] actually still is viewed favorably by a considerable number of voters, but [Elizabeth] Warren is, especially for someone who just appeared on the scene and hasn’t even formally begun her campaign yet, really making a strong showing at this point,” said Steve Koczela, president of the MassINC Polling Group, which conducted the survey.

Poll: economy, jobs rank high on Massachusetts priority list

Tue, 06 Sep 2011 00:00:00 GMT

The WBUR/MassINC poll, which sampled 500 likely voters from Aug. 31 to Sept. 1, found that 93 percent ranked improving the economy and 91 percent ranked creating jobs as a “high priority.”

WBUR Poll: Undeclared Elizabeth Warren 9 Points Behind Sen. Brown - WBUR

Tue, 06 Sep 2011 00:00:00 GMT

Warren Moving Toward Senate Run in Massachusetts - National Journal

Thu, 11 Aug 2011 00:00:00 GMT

Walsh pointed to a poll conducted by the nonpartisan MassINC think tank that showed the junior senator’s favorable/unfavorable split has slid from 57/24 last September to 48/30 in July.

Investors afraid to test the waters - Lowell Sun

Tue, 09 Aug 2011 00:00:00 GMT

Greg Torres, president of the nonpartisan think tank Mass Inc., said the economy will not gain its footing again until Democrats and Republicans put politics aside.

Only 4 percent of residents think Beacon Hill corruption is 'nonexistent' - Wareham Courier

Thu, 04 Aug 2011 00:00:00 GMT

The results of the MassINC poll, released Wednesday in an online article by Commonwealth magazine, also found that 52 percent of voters believe corruption is limited to a few isolated incidents and 50 percent placed the blame for those incidents on individual lawmakers. Only 4 percent said they believed corruption among legislators was "completely nonexistent."

Poll: Mass. residents' financial worries grow - Patriot Ledger

Tue, 02 Aug 2011 00:00:00 GMT

Stafford’s gloomy sentiment is gaining hold among a growing number of residents across the state, according to polling results released Monday by the Boston think tank MassInc.

Young Bay Staters optimistic on economy

Mon, 18 Jul 2011 00:00:00 GMT

Despite high unemployment rates and a sluggish economy, Massachusetts residents 18 to 29 years old are optimistic about their economic situation, according to a poll by the MassINC Polling Group released on Wednesday.

Mooring inequities require state to retake helm - Patriot Legder

Tue, 12 Jul 2011 00:00:00 GMT

The Ledger on Friday published an abridged version of a report by CommonWealth magazine that sheds light on a government-sanctioned gray market in which yacht club owners, marinas and individual boat owners can lease publicly owned moorings for a pittance and collect a handsome profit by selling access to them to someone else.

The quest for an updated bottle bill - Cambridge Chronicle

Thu, 07 Jul 2011 00:00:00 GMT

A recent MassINC poll shows that 77 percent of Massachusetts residents are in favor of the bill.

The Power of a Network - Worcester Telegram and Gazette

Fri, 24 Jun 2011 00:00:00 GMT

Last month marked the third anniversary of a compact signed by leaders of the commonwealth’s Gateway Cities.

Guest View: The Power of a Network Displayed in Gateway Cities - New Bedford Standard Times

Sun, 19 Jun 2011 00:00:00 GMT

Last month marked the third anniversary of a compact signed by leaders of the Commonwealth's Gateway Cities.

Turmoil, Aisle 12 - Boston Globe

Sun, 12 Jun 2011 00:00:00 GMT

Enough already.

Ethics forms are too vague and should apply to spouses - Boston Globe

Sat, 11 Jun 2011 00:00:00 GMT

Beacon Hill leaders patted themselves on the back two years ago when they completed a much-needed overhaul of the state’s ethics laws.

Fool disclosure - Boston Globe

Fri, 10 Jun 2011 00:00:00 GMT

Just for chuckles, I went back and looked at the financial disclosure forms that Sal DiMasi filed during one of his last years as speaker of the Massachusetts House.

In Springfield twisters struck city on the mend - Boston Globe

Tue, 07 Jun 2011 00:00:00 GMT

Trees were falling well before the tornadoes hit.

Poll finds support for soda tax - Boston Globe

Wed, 11 May 2011 00:00:00 GMT

In the past three years, Governor Deval Patrick has proposed applying the state sales tax to soda and candy, a measure aimed at raising revenue and curbing consumption of products that researchers tie to rising obesity rates among the state’s adults and children.

Poll: Massachusetts residents' confidence in economy slips - Patriot Ledger

Wed, 04 May 2011 00:00:00 GMT

The cartload of groceries that Ann Marie Joyce pushed across the BJ’s parking lot Tuesday afternoon looked bountiful, but Joyce’s outlook on the economy is far more bleak than rosy.

State revenues soar in April - Springfield Republican

Wed, 04 May 2011 00:00:00 GMT

In new signs of economic strength in Massachusetts, state tax collections soared in April far above projections and a key business index rose to a nearly four-year high.

Poll: Economic anxiety persists despite growing Massachusetts economy - Patriot Ledger

Tue, 03 May 2011 00:00:00 GMT

Despite strong statewide economic growth in the first quarter, Massachusetts residents are still anxious about their economic prospects and confidence in the recovery has slipped, according to a new statewide poll released today by The MassINC Polling Group.

White flight still seen - Springfield Republican

Mon, 02 May 2011 00:00:00 GMT

White people continued to leave cities like Hartford, Holyoke and Springfield during the past decade, mirroring a longtime pattern dictated mostly by economic forces, new statistics from the U.S. Census show.

Our View: Bay Staters willing to take lead on climate change - South Coast Today

Tue, 26 Apr 2011 00:00:00 GMT

It is easier to talk about global warming than it is to do something about it, but most Massachusetts citizens are willing to put their money where their mouths are.

Clean energy is good business for Massachusetts - Springfield Republican

Sun, 24 Apr 2011 00:00:00 GMT

A recent survey by The MassINCPolling Group indicates residents across the state see efforts to reduce climate change as a winning economic development strategy for the commonwealth.

Small changes big reforms - Worcester Magazine

Wed, 20 Apr 2011 00:00:00 GMT

Just last year, higher ups in Massachusetts public education seemed keen on infusing underperforming school districts with charter schools – public schools that could work outside the system and create small clusters of education reform.

Building a culture of climate protection - WCAI

Sun, 17 Apr 2011 00:00:00 GMT

Massachusetts has set an ambitious goal when it comes to combating climate change: the 2008 Global Warming Solutions Act mandates an 80% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions below 1990 levels by the year 2050, and an interim reduction of 25% this decade.

Editorial: Climate of skepticism - Metro West Daily News

Sun, 17 Apr 2011 00:00:00 GMT

Physically, humans are incapable of seeing beyond the horizon.

True to our Founders - Berkshire Eagle

Sun, 17 Apr 2011 00:00:00 GMT

Does Glenn Beck's departure from Fox News signal the advent of a new era of serious, civilized discourse in America? No, but it's a start.

Mass residents differ on threat from manmade climate change - Boston Globe

Thu, 14 Apr 2011 00:00:00 GMT

A majority of Massachusetts residents say global warming is happening and is caused by human activity, but many remain relatively apathetic on addressing the issue, a new survey released by MassInc shows.

New report shows belief in global warming but lack of alarm - Metro West Daily News

Thu, 14 Apr 2011 00:00:00 GMT

Three-quarters of Massachusetts residents surveyed in a new poll believe global temperatures are rising, but only a third think manmade emissions are at least partly to blame and that serious problems will result if no action is taken.

Murray offers plan to monitor overhaul of state services - Winchester Star

Thu, 07 Apr 2011 00:00:00 GMT

As state government implements complex overhauls to Massachusetts’s transportation and economic development bureaucracies and lawmakers eye similar restructuring of the health care, criminal justice and pension systems, Senate President Therese Murray on Thursday outlined a plan to redouble the state’s effort to track their progress on these efforts.

Region's diversity continues to deepen - Boston Globe

Thu, 07 Apr 2011 00:00:00 GMT

US Census Bureau projections indicate that minorities will be the majority in America by 2050, but in communities like Lawrence and Chelsea, that has been the case for decades.

Growth slow in Boston metro area - Boston Globe

Mon, 28 Mar 2011 00:00:00 GMT

The population of Boston’s metropolitan area grew by just 3.7 percent over the past decade, far more slowly than the nation and most other large urban areas, according to new US Census Bureau figures.

The Price of Taxing the Rich - Wall Street Journal

Sat, 26 Mar 2011 00:00:00 GMT

As Brad Williams walked the halls of the California state capitol in Sacramento on a recent afternoon, he spotted a small crowd of protesters battling state spending cuts.

Few markets, poor nutrition - Boston Globe

Sun, 20 Mar 2011 00:00:00 GMT

Supermarket chains are quick to locate on busy roadways that pass through well-to-do suburbs.

Rail woes drag down the state, showing need to overhaul the T - Boston Globe

Sun, 13 Mar 2011 00:00:00 GMT

When an MBTA commuter train takes more than three hours to get to Fitchburg, or more than four hours to limp into Worcester, the frustrated, long-delayed riders of each train aren’t the only ones who lose out.

House majority leader sees health payment bill debate next year - Arlington Advocate

Fri, 11 Mar 2011 00:00:00 GMT

An overhaul of the way patients, government, insurers and hospitals pay for health care - one that would eventually lead to massive reordering of Massachusetts's multi-billion-dollar per year health care system - will likely be ready for legislative debate by the spring of 2012, a top House ally of Speaker Robert DeLeo said Thursday.

Timetable For Health Reform Bill? 'Maybe 70% Chance By Year's End' - WBUR

Fri, 11 Mar 2011 00:00:00 GMT

The scene: A packed forum yesterday at Suffolk University’s Modern Theatre, the old Theatre District movie house once considered beyond repair, now miraculously refurbished, a charming public space once again.

CommonWealth Magazine gets $1m gift - Boston Globe

Fri, 04 Mar 2011 00:00:00 GMT

An anonymous donor has given CommonWealth magazine $1 million, part of a celebration of the 15th anniversary of its publisher, the Massachusetts Institute for a New Commonwealth, and nonpartisan reporting on politics and policy in Massachusetts.

Rep: Minorities will keep clout in redistricting - Boston Herald

Tue, 01 Mar 2011 00:00:00 GMT

The cautious Beacon Hill lawmaker charged with redrawing the state’s voting districts — and axing one member of the Bay State’s congressional delegation in the process — vowed yesterday to maintain strong minority voting blocks, especially in U.S. Rep. Michael Capuano’s district, to comply with federal law and avoid being sued.

Cordy: Probation in executive branch would be vulnerable to politics - Boston Herald

Thu, 17 Feb 2011 00:00:00 GMT

Robert Cordy, a justice of the Supreme Judicial Court and a veteran of Gov. William Weld’s administration, said Thursday that placing the Probation Department under the control of the Executive Branch could leave the agency vulnerable to “the political mood.”

Our Opinion: Bidding process crumbled long before concrete ties - Patriot Ledger

Wed, 09 Feb 2011 00:00:00 GMT

Just when we thought we had plumbed the depths of the MBTA’s $90 million rail tie debacle we learn that the problem may have begun long before the system’s 147,000 faulty concrete ties were even cast.

Treasurer Launches 'Move Money' Plan - Worcester Business Journal

Wed, 09 Feb 2011 00:00:00 GMT

Small businesses in Gateway Cities like Worcester could benefit from an initiative announced Wednesday by State Treasurer Steve Grossman.

Governor Patrick addresses Gateway Cities summit - Patriot Ledger

Mon, 07 Feb 2011 00:00:00 GMT

Gov. Deval Patrick addressed a gathering of mayors, educators and other officials Friday, Feb. 4 at the Gateway Cities Education Summit in Worcester, an event focusing on improving school services to the state's mid-sized industrial cities, including Brockton.

Rethinking reform, next wave will require bolder steps - Worcester Telegram and Gazette

Sun, 06 Feb 2011 00:00:00 GMT

Education officials and experts gathered in Worcester on Friday for the first-ever Gateway Cities Education Summit on improving public schools in cities where “high concentrations of poverty pose significant challenges to educational attainment.”

Governor urges cities to use creativity to fix ailing schools - Worcester Telegram and Gazette

Sat, 05 Feb 2011 00:00:00 GMT

Gov. Deval L. Patrick told representatives of the state's “gateway cities” today that many of their poor and minority students are not doing well enough in school, and the time has come to get creative.

Patrick challenges cities to get creative, close student achievement gap - New Bedford Standard Times

Sat, 05 Feb 2011 00:00:00 GMT

Gov. Deval Patrick on Friday challenged Gateway Cities educators and leaders to use the tools at their disposal — in creative, innovative, community-specific ways — to close the student achievement gap.

Patrick to create school strategy for gateway cities - Lawrence Eagle Tribune

Sat, 05 Feb 2011 00:00:00 GMT

Gov. Deval Patrick pledged yesterday to work directly with Lawrence, Haverhill, Methuen and other "gateway" cities to improve schools in those towns.

Patrick wants schools to bridge gap - Sentinel and Enterprise

Sat, 05 Feb 2011 00:00:00 GMT

Gov. Deval Patrick urged officials to "be bold" in coming up with creative ways to bridge the achievement gap in the state's poorest school systems.

Patrick wants schools to bridge gap - Sentinel and Enterprise

Sat, 05 Feb 2011 00:00:00 GMT

Gov. Deval Patrick urged officials to "be bold" in coming up with creative ways to bridge the achievement gap in the state's poorest school systems.

Our Opinion: Dual redistricting efforts may help keep process honest - The Patriot Ledger

Fri, 04 Feb 2011 00:00:00 GMT

Drawing new legislative district lines isn’t easy, especially when, as in our case, you have to reduce by one the state’s delegation to Congress. Districts must be contiguous, meet numeric guidelines, and may not disenfranchise minority voters.

Speaker terms bottle bill expansion 'another form of taxation' - Salem News

Wed, 02 Feb 2011 00:00:00 GMT

Calling it "another form of taxation," House Speaker Robert DeLeo on Sunday snuffed a budget proposal embraced by Gov. Deval Patrick to encourage recycling and raise $20 million a year to defray water and sewer costs.

De Leo: Bottle bill expansion 'another form of taxation' - Dedham Transcript

Mon, 31 Jan 2011 00:00:00 GMT

Calling it “another form of taxation,” House Speaker Robert DeLeo on Sunday snuffed a budget proposal embraced by Gov. Deval Patrick to encourage recycling and raise $20 million a year to defray water and sewer costs.

The Legislature's redistricting challenge - Fall River Herald News

Sun, 30 Jan 2011 00:00:00 GMT

Drawing new legislative district lines isn’t easy, especially when, as in Massachusetts’ case, you have to reduce by one the state’s delegation to Congress.

School efforts please parents - Springfield Republican

Thu, 27 Jan 2011 00:00:00 GMT

A survey of registered voters in struggling mill cities shows nearly half give their city schools a grade of B or above, despite high dropout rates and low test scores.

Brockton, other Gateway City schools score higher with public than on tests - Patriot Ledger

Wed, 26 Jan 2011 00:00:00 GMT

About half of the voters polled in Massachusetts’ Gateway Cities give their community’s public schools a grade of A (12 percent) or B (37 percent); 83 percent give them a C or higher, according to a new poll conducted by the MassINC Polling Group.

Poll: City residents grade schools generously - Lowell Sun

Wed, 26 Jan 2011 00:00:00 GMT

Residents in 11 of the state's midsized cities give their school systems a grade of A or B, although actual test scores and graduation rates are poor, a new study finds.

Poll: Many satisfied with schools - Sentinel and Enterprise

Wed, 26 Jan 2011 00:00:00 GMT

A new study claims residents in 11 of the state's mid size cities, including Fitchburg, Worcester and Lowell, give school systems good grades despite poor test scores and gradution rates.

Registered voters give schools in Springfield, Holyoke and other gateway cities high grades - Union-News and Sunday Republican

Wed, 26 Jan 2011 00:00:00 GMT

A survey of registered voters in struggling mill cities shows nearly half give their city schools a grade of B or above, despite high dropout rates and low test scores.

Registered voters give schools in Springfield, Holyoke and other gateway cities high grades -Springfield Republican

Wed, 26 Jan 2011 00:00:00 GMT

A survey of registered voters in struggling mill cities shows nearly half give their city schools a grade of B or above, despite high dropout rates and low test scores.

Troubled school systems getting high marks from many voters - Boston Globe

Wed, 26 Jan 2011 00:00:00 GMT

Nearly half of voters in 11 Massachusetts cities give their public schools a grade of A or B and just 12 percent rate their schools D or F, according to poll results released yesterday.

Brockton, other Gateway City schools score higher with public than on tests - Brockton Enterprise

Tue, 25 Jan 2011 00:00:00 GMT

Editorial: Let others in on the redistricting - MetroWest Daily News

Sun, 23 Jan 2011 00:00:00 GMT

Drawing new legislative district lines isn't easy, especially when, as in Massachusetts' case, you have to reduce by one the state's delegation to Congress. Districts must be contiguous, meet numeric guidelines, and may not disenfranchise minority voters.

Going broke with tax breaks - MetroWest Daily News

Sun, 23 Jan 2011 00:00:00 GMT

Politicians want to give us what we want, and what we want are jobs. But what jobs should they give us, and what should the taxpayers pay for them?

A fix for the West End - Boston Globe

Fri, 21 Jan 2011 00:00:00 GMT

At the end of Nashua Street, in the shadows of a parking garage and the Boston Garden, lies the closest thing to a grave marker that the old West End ever got: the slogan, “the greatest neighborhood this side of heaven,’’ etched onto the side of a highway onramp.

Opening the gates to economic development - Worcester Magazine

Wed, 19 Jan 2011 00:00:00 GMT

Last year Worcester and 23 other Massachusetts municipalities – all former centers of manufacturing and industry with populations stretching between 35,000 and 250,000 — pinned their hopes on a piece of legislation bouncing through the statehouse that promised to diversify their workforces and offer incentives to attract economic development.

Somerville Democrat to challenge Scott Brown - Brockton Enterprise

Tue, 18 Jan 2011 00:00:00 GMT

In his 54 years, Bob Massie has beat the odds, clinging to health insurance and surviving an incurable disease, and now he wants to defeat the man who is possibly the state’s most popular politician.

Our View: Courage to Educate - New Bedford Standard Times

Sun, 16 Jan 2011 00:00:00 GMT

Last spring, in the days before Portia Bonner resigned as New Bedford's superintendent of schools, a small group of community leaders came together to examine not only the multiple mistakes that led to Bonner's failure but also to do what they could to improve public education.

A new act in foreclosure circus - Boston Globe

Fri, 14 Jan 2011 00:00:00 GMT

Last week's Supreme Judicial Court decision, in which the court upended a pair of Springfield foreclosures and upbraided Wells Fargo and US Bank for maintaining sloppy records is great news for homeowners facing foreclosure.

Our View: Legislature should heed voters on redistricting - Salem Evening News

Thu, 13 Jan 2011 00:00:00 GMT

It may already be too late for this decade, but lawmakers ought to give serious consideration to the idea of having an independent commission, rather than their partisan selves, redraw congressional and legislative districts.

Redistricting dilemma - Boston Herald

Thu, 13 Jan 2011 00:00:00 GMT

Massachusetts legislators are terrific at giving lip service to public opinion - and then going off and doing exactly as they damn well please.

Bay Staters favor independent redistricting panel - Belmont Citizen-Herald

Wed, 12 Jan 2011 00:00:00 GMT

Sixty-two percent of Massachusetts residents favor using an independent redistricting commission to redraw the political boundaries before the 2012 elections compared to just 23 percent who said they prefer to have the Legislature handle the task, according to a new poll conducted by MassINC.

Poll: Public favors independent panel for congressional redistricting - Patriot Ledger

Wed, 12 Jan 2011 00:00:00 GMT

Beacon Hill Democrats and the public sharply disagree on the fairest way to redraw the state’s voting districts, a new poll shows.

Wages rise for all, but gap widens-Boston Globe

Sat, 01 Jan 2011 00:00:00 GMT

Thanks to its colleges and universities, Massachusetts has one of the best-educated, best-paid workforces in the nation, but a new study shows the gap between the haves and have-nots has widened — especially during the recent recession.

Putting money where jobs are - Boston Globe

Wed, 29 Dec 2010 00:00:00 GMT

No more state tax breaks for pizza parlors, hair salons, or convenience stores.

Massachusetts is now sharply limiting which companies receive valuable subsidies intended to encourage businesses to relocate or expand operations in the state.

From old factories to new hope - The Boston Globe

Tue, 28 Dec 2010 13:14:00 GMT

About six years ago, the City of Haverhill decided to count its blessings. After decades spent wishing for new factories to replace those that had closed in the 1970s, the city chose another direction. Like an addict struggling to turn his life around, Haverhill forced itself to tally its assets and debits honestly.

Time to Rethink Transportation Financing- The Worcester Business Journal

Sun, 19 Dec 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Massachusetts is approaching the crossroads in terms of how it plans and pays for transportation infrastructure. State and federal transportation dollars will be severely limited in the coming years.

With carrots and sticks state can improve cities governance- The Boston Globe

Sun, 19 Dec 2010 00:00:00 GMT

More than most of the other gateway cities — the once-prosperous mill and port cities that dot Massachusetts — Lawrence has struggled to manage its own affairs.

Housing plans for pricy Boston dont fit gateway cities needs- Boston Sunday Globe

Sun, 12 Dec 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Many of Springfield’s problems reflect long-ago errors in urban planning and shouldn’t be viewed as an indictment of current affordable-housing programs, which emphasize mixed-income developments and stronger neighborhoods.

Mobility means more vigor for states gateway cities- The Boston Globe

Sun, 05 Dec 2010 00:00:00 GMT

For the state’s gateway cities to thrive again, they have to be within easy reach of the 21st-century economy. Extending commuter rail from Boston would help, but these cities also need a more ambitious strategy to restore their position as local transportation centers.

State's gateway cities need a new opportunity to flower- The Boston Globe

Mon, 29 Nov 2010 00:00:00 GMT

First in a series of gateway-cities editorials appearing on Sundays.

THE COMMONWEALTH’S “gateway’’ cities, the mid-sized metropolises that dot the shores and heartland of Massachusetts, wear their aspirations in their architecture. In these two dozen former factory towns and commercial ports, there are art museums with roomfuls of Hudson River School masterpieces, and train stations designed by the most famous 19th-century architects.

MassINC urges state transport funding to focus on local efforts- Springfield Republican

Mon, 22 Nov 2010 00:00:00 GMT

MassINC has released a policy report calling for a new approach to state transportation funding.

MassINC releases report on transportation- The Boston Business Journal

Wed, 17 Nov 2010 00:00:00 GMT

MassINC has released a policy report calling for a new approach to state transportation funding.

Baker lays his loss to a narrow window- The Boston Globe

Sat, 06 Nov 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Charles D. Baker, making his first public comments since his concession speech Tuesday night, yesterday blamed his loss in the governor’s race on stiff competition from Governor Deval Patrick, lower-than-expected energy among Republicans, and “swing voters’’ who were turned off by the Republican surge nationally.

A Post Mortem On The 2010 Governors Race- WBZ Radio

Fri, 05 Nov 2010 00:00:00 GMT

The MassINC Polling Group’s survey finds Baker had a 13 percent advantage over Patrick among male voters, and he won by 14% among unenrolled voters.

In governors race Baker outpaced Patrick in MetroWest- MetroWest Daily News

Fri, 05 Nov 2010 00:00:00 GMT

If Tuesday's election had been up to MetroWest and Milford-area voters alone, Republican Charlie Baker might be Massachusetts' next governor.

Poll Baker fell short among unenrolled and women- Belmont Citizen-Herald

Fri, 05 Nov 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Charles Baker, Republican candidate for governor, fell short of the support he needed among unenrolled voters and was trounced in the battle for the female vote, according to a new poll of voters who cast ballots Tuesday.

Women the key to Governor Patricks re election over Baker- Watertown Press

Fri, 05 Nov 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Republican Charlie Baker beat Gov. Deval Patrick by 14 points among unenrolled voters and by 13 percent among men in Tuesday's state election, but lost women by 24 points, according to a voter survey taken Wednesday by the MassINC Polling Group.

Women the key to Governor Patricks re election over Baker- Harvard Post

Fri, 05 Nov 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Women the key to Governor Patricks re election over Baker- The Patriot Ledger

Fri, 05 Nov 2010 00:00:00 GMT

In governors race Baker outpaced Patrick in MetroWest- Lexington Minuteman

Thu, 04 Nov 2010 00:00:00 GMT

If Tuesday's election had been up to MetroWest and Milford-area voters alone, Republican Charlie Baker might be Massachusetts' next governor.

Poll suggests contest is a dead heat with few left undecided- The Boston Globe

Wed, 27 Oct 2010 00:00:00 GMT

The race in the closely watched Massachusetts 10th Congressional District is a virtual dead heat, according to a new poll that gives a slight advantage to the Democrat, Norfolk District Attorney William R. Keating, as the candidates head into the final two weeks of campaigning.

Poll says Jeffrey Perry and William Keating in dead heat- The Boston Herald

Tue, 26 Oct 2010 00:00:00 GMT

The race for the 10th Congressional District between Democrat William Keating and Republican Jeffrey Perry is a statistical dead heat, according to poll results.

Poll shows Massachusetts residents have dim view of future- The Springfield Republican

Tue, 19 Oct 2010 00:00:00 GMT

When asked if the “next generation” will be better off financially, the MassInc Polling Group survey found that 31 percent of respondents said “about the same” and just 20 percent said “better”. Three percent said “don’t know.”

Poll Dead heat in the 10th Congressional District race- The Patriot Ledger

Mon, 18 Oct 2010 00:00:00 GMT

The race to replace William Delahunt as the U.S. representative from the 10th Congressional District is a statistical dead heat with barely two weeks until the election.

The Income Gap- The Boston Globe

Wed, 06 Oct 2010 00:00:00 GMT

The term “middle class’’ is more than an economic distinction. It’s also an appreciation for balance and equity and a national yearning for a strong, cohesive society. Yet a polarizing income gap in Massachusetts and elsewhere is threatening both the class and the concept.

MASS MARKET More inclusive business leaders emerge in Boston - The Patriot Ledger

Sun, 19 Sep 2010 00:00:00 GMT

A new era of corporate leadership is dawning on the Boston area, and Sherry Penney is determined to ensure that the transition goes smoothly.

Milford to get idea-sharing website

Thu, 16 Sep 2010 15:01:00 GMT

A new website geared toward getting Milford residents talking about the issues that matter most to them will be launched next week by a Massachusetts think tank.

Former factory cities hope state law boosts investment - The Boston Globe

Thu, 16 Sep 2010 00:00:00 GMT

The state is providing some of the region’s cities new opportunities to bolster their economies and housing stocks.

CWs Jack Sullivan on Radio Boston

Wed, 08 Sep 2010 18:17:00 GMT

CommonWealth magazine's senior investigative reporter Jack Sullivan joined host Sacha Pfeiffer on WBUR's Radio Boston Tuesday to discuss Sullivan's cover story in the summer issue, "Overexposed." Their discussion focused on the prevalence of medical imaging use in Massachusetts. Listen here.

New political map puts Deval on the defense- MetroWest Daily News

Mon, 30 Aug 2010 09:32:00 GMT

Four years ago, the Democratic Party reached a new apex in Massachusetts with the landslide election of Deval Patrick as governor. But just over seven months ago, the moods of the two major parties in Massachusetts did a complete switch.

Nuclear Needed- Worcester Telegram & Gazette

Wed, 18 Aug 2010 12:59:00 GMT

The four candidates hoping to win this fall’s gubernatorial contest finally got down to business Monday night with a debate that focused largely on energy, including nuclear power’s role.

The high cost of energy in New England makes it a major concern for all.

Cahill, Stein earn their places- Boston Globe

Wed, 18 Aug 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Independent Candidate Tim Cahill began his closing statement in Monday’s first gubernatorial debate with a plea to be included – along with Green-Rainbow party candidate Jill Stein – in subsequent debates. Then he and Stein went on to show, with their contributions to the debate on Cape Wind, that they bring thoughtful, distinct perspectives the voters deserve to hear.

At Gubernatorial Debate, Patrick Defends Cape Wind- WBUR

Tue, 17 Aug 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Cape Wind, the Nantucket Sound wind energy development, is in the final stages of review by the Department of Public Utilities. A decision is expected this fall, while Gov. Deval Patrick is still in office. But his opponents in this fall’s gubernatorial race say they would chart a different course for the state even if Cape Wind is approved.

Candidates Debate Energy Issues- Worcester Telegram & Gazette

Tue, 17 Aug 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Republican Charles D. Baker and independent candidate Timothy P. Cahill attacked Gov. Deval L. Patrick's programs to promote wind and solar energy as too costly, during an energy debate yesterday. Both said they favor increased use of nuclear power.

Candidates talk Wind at gubernatorial forum yesterday- Boston Herald

Tue, 17 Aug 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Incumbent Gov. Deval Patrick came out as the lone candidate in favor of Cape Wind yesterday, as Green Rainbow Party candidate Jill Stein distanced herself from the $2 billion energy project citing the no-bid contract with developer Jim Gordon, and a lack of transparency with respect to costs.

Foes hit Gov. Deval Patrick on wind project- Boston Herald

Tue, 17 Aug 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Gov. Deval Patrick’s three challengers yesterday slammed his plan to build wind turbines off Cape Cod, casting the $2 billion project as a no-bid boondoggle and warning it could mushroom into Bay State’s next Big Dig.

Gov. Candidates Spar Over Cape Wind, Energy- Channel 5 WCVB

Tue, 17 Aug 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Incumbent Democratic Gov. Deval Patrick was the lone candidate to defend a planned wind farm off Cape Cod at a gubernatorial debate Monday focused on the future of renewable energy in Massachusetts.

Patrick said the proposed 130-turbine Cape Wind project in Nantucket Sound will thrust the state to the forefront of offshore wind energy in the US and guarantee reliably priced electricity into the future.

Patrick, rivals clash over Cape wind farm

Tue, 17 Aug 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Republican gubernatorial candidate Charles D. Baker came out swinging at Governor Deval Patrick yesterday afternoon in a debate on clean energy, calling the proposed Cape Wind project in Nantucket Sound “a sweetheart deal’’ among the state, Cape Wind, and the utility National Grid that is purchasing half of its power.

Patrick stands alone in support of wind farm- Lowell Sun

Tue, 17 Aug 2010 00:00:00 GMT

In the first debate of the gubernatorial campaign last night, Gov. Deval Patrick stood out as the lone voice of support for the Cape Wind project that would bring the nation's first offshore wind farm to Nantucket Sound.

His stance sparked protests from his rivals, who said the high cost of energy produced by the 130 wind turbines will hurt business and consumers.

Wind farm powers gubernatorial debate- Cape Cod Times

Tue, 17 Aug 2010 00:00:00 GMT

The Bay State's gubernatorial candidates duked it out yesterday over Cape Wind and its effect on climate change, the state's economy and energy policy.

Gubernatorial candidates debate Cape Wind project- NECN

Mon, 16 Aug 2010 00:00:00 GMT

The controversial Cape Wind project is front and center in the Massachusetts Governor's race. The four candidates mostly stuck to the issues during a debate.

Mass. Governor Candidates Debate Energy- WHDH TV

Mon, 16 Aug 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Massachusetts’ four gubernatorial candidates debated alternative energy sources on Monday in Boston. The candidates specifically discussed the topic of the controversial Cape Wind project.

Green power costs shouldn't be in the dark

Wed, 04 Aug 2010 14:17:00 GMT

GREEN POWER curbs greenhouse gas emissions, reduces our reliance on fossil fuels, and has the potential to create new industries and jobs. But it’s not cheap, and consumers footing the bill for green power have a right to know what it costs.

CW's Bruce Mohl and Michael Jonas appear on The Emily Rooney Show

Mon, 02 Aug 2010 15:41:00 GMT

CommonWealth Editor Bruce Mohl and Executive Editor Michael Jonas appeared on the Emily Rooney Show on WGBH radio today to discuss the new special issue of CommonWealth on Energy and the Environment.

The art of saving a city - The Boston Globe

Mon, 26 Jul 2010 10:13:00 GMT

PITTSFIELD — City of art, city of funk. The SoHo of the Berkshires, the Brooklyn of the Berkshires.

The sobriquets urban planners bestow upon this bygone manufacturing hub speak of their confidence that Pittsfield can become a center of culture and entertainment on par with Lenox and Stockbridge and Williamstown.

Mohl on Broadside with Jim Braude

Fri, 23 Jul 2010 13:38:00 GMT

Here is a link to CommonWealth editor Bruce Mohl’s appearance on Broadside to talk about the gambling impasse on Beacon Hill. The host of Broadside, a New England Cable News show, is Jim Braude.

House bill seeks $50M to help revitalize Gateway Cities like Lowell

Fri, 09 Jul 2010 00:00:00 GMT

BOSTON -- Cities like Lowell that were once the economic engines of the state are now getting renewed attention as lawmakers look to revive these once-vibrant communities.

A package of reforms aimed at spurring economic development across the state includes several provisions targeted specifically at the "Gateway Cities."

New bill aims to brige gap for Gateway Cities - Sentinel and Enterprise

Mon, 05 Jul 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Legislation offering financial incentives for residential and commerical development in so-called Gateway Cities, such as Fitchburg and Leominster, is scheduled for debate this week on Beacon Hill.

CW's Alison Lobron on WBUR

Mon, 21 Jun 2010 11:42:00 GMT

CW's Alison Lobron appeared on WBUR's Radio Boston Friday to talk about recent developments in the race for governor and President Obama's meeting with Scott Brown.

Economic efforts lauded - The Berkshire Eagle

Mon, 14 Jun 2010 14:04:00 GMT

Creative economy officials from across the state came together at the Colonial Theatre on Friday to praise Pittsfield's redevelopment efforts and discuss the steps that are needed for improvements.

CommonWealth magazine plays increasingly important role as government watchdog

Fri, 04 Jun 2010 15:29:00 GMT

As a publication owned by a nonprofit organization (Boston think tank MassINC), CommonWealth is a shining local example of a growing trend in an era of steep cost-cutting at the country’s big major metro papers. Nonprofit news-gathering organizations are often picking up the slack, particularly with time-consuming investigative pieces.

CWs Bruce Mohl on Broadside with Jim Braude

Wed, 26 May 2010 17:03:00 GMT

CommonWealth magazine Editor Bruce Mohl appeared on NECN's Broadside with Jim Braude last night to discuss patronage in the state probation department. He was joined by State Senator Bruce Tarr (R-Gloucester) and Democratic analyst Michael Goldman. Watch the video here.

Boston isn't the only metropolis combating mass transit troubles - The Boston Globe

Mon, 24 May 2010 16:18:00 GMT

Leaders of five of the nation’s biggest (and oldest) transit agencies — numbers two, four, five, six, and nine in ridership — gathered at the Federal Reserve Bank of Boston last week and swapped stories about the shared pressures and challenges they face.

Rogoff Addresses Funding Backlog at Boston Summit

Mon, 24 May 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Public transportation agencies throughout the nation are facing a $78 billion backlog of deferred maintenance projects, the administrator of the Federal Transit Administration announced at a May 18 event in Boston.

The search for a national solution to our transit woes

Fri, 21 May 2010 10:04:00 GMT

RED SOX and Yankees fans can agree on one thing — how to get to the game. In New York, about 45 percent of ticketholders take public transportation.

CW on Broadside

Thu, 06 May 2010 14:53:00 GMT

CW senior investigative reporter Jack Sullivan joined Jim Braude on NECN’s “Broadside” to discuss the MBTA’s failing concrete railroad ties and the state of investigative journalism. Here’s the link.

Study says many in ex-mill areas lack bank accounts

Wed, 14 Apr 2010 14:44:00 GMT

Many of Massachusetts’ older industrial cities have long struggled with high unemployment, poverty, and empty storefronts. Now a local research firm has identified another major problem: Lack of bank accounts.

Study examines impact of fees for check cashing and tax refund anticipation loans on local economies

Wed, 14 Apr 2010 14:37:00 GMT

SPRINGFIELD - Check-cashing shops and refund-anticipation loans from tax preparers cost city customers about $12.6 million a year in fees, according to a study being released today by the Massachusetts Institute for a New Commonwealth.

Fewer bank accounts in Gateway Cities

Wed, 14 Apr 2010 14:33:00 GMT

Brockton is among the state's so-called "gateway" cities where residents are more likely to use high-cost financial services such as hock shops and check-cashers rather than traditional banks, the Enterprise reports, citing a study by MassINC.

Study Brockton residents among those using high cost financial services

Wed, 14 Apr 2010 14:29:00 GMT

Brockton is among the “gateway cities” where residents are more likely to use pawn shops, tax-refund loans and check-cashing stores instead of traditional banking establishments – a pattern that can hamper financial growth, a new study said.

MassINC Research Director on WFCR

Tue, 13 Apr 2010 00:00:00 GMT

A study by the research firm MassINC finds that residents in nearly a dozen older, industrial Massachusetts cities are less likely than other state residents to have bank accounts. WFCR's Bob Paquette spoke with Ben Forman, the Research Director at MassINC.

CWs Jack Sullivan on WRKO

Wed, 07 Apr 2010 15:32:00 GMT

CommonWealth magazine's senior investigative reporter Jack Sullivan appeared on the Charley Manning show on WRKO on March 5th.

Rich towns get 'distressed' status - The Boston Globe

Mon, 15 Mar 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Over the last 16 years, the state has designated “economic target areas" in 209 of the state’s 351 cities and towns, making companies eligible for tax breaks if they expand there.

CW Editor Bruce Mohl on NECN Broadside with Jim Braude

Fri, 05 Mar 2010 00:00:00 GMT

CW Editor Bruce Mohl was a guest on NECN's "Broadside" with Jim Braude on March 4 to talk about patronage in the probation department.

CW's Jack Sullivan on Carr show

Wed, 03 Mar 2010 00:00:00 GMT

CommonWealth senior investigative reporter Jack Sullivan appeared on the Howie Carr Show on WRKO (AM 680) on Monday.

New Bedford shows off its cultural revival - New Bedford Standard Times

Sat, 27 Feb 2010 00:00:00 GMT

City leaders exercised their bragging rights Friday as the Massachusetts Cultural Council came to town along with guests from "Gateway Cities" across the state.

Commentary: College decision too often based on flawed criteria - The Patriot Ledger

Mon, 15 Feb 2010 00:00:00 GMT

If you’ve been to college recently, or you’re the parent of a student, you know how planning for college has become a bit like the game show The Price is Right.

Paying for college

Thu, 11 Feb 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Planning for College author Tony Broh spoke to WFCR's Bob Paquette.

Study: Families need more financial info

Wed, 10 Feb 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Students and their families often do not make the best financial investments in higher education because of a lack of readily available information, a study published Tuesday said.

The Boston Redevelopment Authority's Money Machine

Wed, 27 Jan 2010 00:00:00 GMT

In last year's mayoral election, Mayor Tom Menino's challengers zeroed in on the powerful Boston Redevelopment Authority, claiming the agency is out of control and should be abolished.

Affordable housing - CommonWealth magazine

Tue, 26 Jan 2010 00:00:00 GMT

City workers tap BRA housing program

All aboard - CommonWealth magazine

Tue, 26 Jan 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Can the new Massachusetts transportation board get things moving?

City employees cash in on Boston's affordable housing program

Tue, 26 Jan 2010 00:00:00 GMT

A joint investigation by Fox Undercover and CommonWealth Magazine reveals there is one special group of resident benefiting more than any other: city employees and their relatives.

Money Machine - CommonWealth magazine

Tue, 26 Jan 2010 00:00:00 GMT

The BRA has paved the way for the new Boston, but some say it's overstepped its bounds

You win, you're fired - CommonWealth magazine

Tue, 26 Jan 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Despite "landmark" pension reform, lucrative perk for those fired from state jobs remains in place

Youth populations drop 1.2M in Northeast, Midwest - USA Today

Fri, 08 Jan 2010 00:00:00 GMT

States in the Northeast and Midwest saw their youth population drop by more than 1.2 million in the past decade, a decline that threatens the regions' economic stability and future growth.

Housing policies leave cities behind - The Boston Globe

Sat, 28 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT

For decades, building affordable housing has been the "fix" for declining neighborhoods in the state's older industrial cities.

Grade the Teachers - The Boston Globe

Sun, 01 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT

A way to improve schools, one instructor at a time

State's Mill cities need smart investing - The Springfield Republican

Sun, 01 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Unfortunately, the policies we have in place currently are only making it more difficult for them. Massachusetts does give a tax incentive designed to encourage companies to invest in older cites with legitimate barriers to development.

Teacher Test - CommonWealth magazine

Thu, 22 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Identifying effective teachers is vital to improving schools. So why do we act as if all teachers are interchangeable?

Term paper trafficking - CommonWealth magazine

Thu, 22 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Web businesses thrive by peddling 'customized' term papers to students willing to pay for someone else's work

Missed opportunity - CommonWealth Magazine

Fri, 16 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Ethics reform has done little to make public officials' financial data — and possible conflicts of interest — accessible to taxpayers

State of the unions - CommonWealth magazine

Fri, 16 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Cash-poor state and local officials are taking aim at public sector union salaries and benefits, but organized labor isn't backing down.

Career Change - CommonWealth Magazine

Thu, 01 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Career changes become more common, but the support structure hasn't yet caught up

Public Records - CommonWealth Magazine

Thu, 01 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The state's Public Records Law is flouted by officials at all levels of government

State of the Unions - CommonWealth Magazine

Thu, 01 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Cash-poor state and local officials are taking aim at public sector union salaries and benefits, but organized labor isn't backing down

T Steps Up Concrete-tie Inspections - The Patriot Ledger

Wed, 23 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Cracking, crumbling found along Old Colony, Greenbush rail lines prompt orders to reduce speed

Rail Fix Plan on Track - The Enterprise

Tue, 15 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Temporary schedule adjustment to be in effect through Oct. 30

City Says Red Sox Must End Open Bar - The Boston Globe

Sat, 08 Aug 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Team was unaware of law, officials say

Menino's long ride - CommonWealth magazine

Fri, 24 Jul 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The mayor of Boston is running for an unprecedented fifth term. The question facing voters is whether the city still needs a father figure or whether it's time for a new generation to take over.

Back tracking - CommonWealth magazine

Wed, 22 Jul 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The cash-strapped MBTA hits another rough patch, as it stuggles with defective concrete railroad ties that are costly to replace and may pose safety risks.

Getting to yes - CommonWealth magazine

Wed, 22 Jul 2009 00:00:00 GMT

After months of talks, municipal officials and real estate developers have agreed to disagree on zoning reform. What comes next could hinge on the man in the middle, Greg Bialecki.

School reform snubs students - The Boston Herald

Fri, 03 Jul 2009 00:00:00 GMT

At the event sponsored by the Massachusetts Institute for a New Commonwealth (MassINC), Reville previewed parts of a Patrick administration legislative package.

Charter schools important but only part of the solution - The Patriot Ledger

Sun, 28 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Education consultant Jeff Howard on Thursday compared those fixated on the promise of charter schools to a homeowner convinced his house is cold because the furnace is broken.

Capital Idea - Worcester Telegram and Gazette

Tue, 23 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT

It seems no one is sure who first uttered the old wisecrack "Light dawns on Marblehead," but it seems that light has finally begun to dawn on Beacon Hill.

Lawmakers look to capital gains tax to bolster savings - The Boston Globe

Wed, 17 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The economic downturn has produced a record decline in the taxes Massachusetts collects from taxpayers on their investment profits, a $1.6 billion drop-off that is largely responisible for the worst fiscal crisis to hit state government in decades.

A Report Card for Ed Reform - The Boston Globe

Sat, 06 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT

This week, The Globe editorial page reflected on 15 years of education reform, which has cost billions while disparities persist.

The Schools 15 Years Later - The Boston Globe

Mon, 01 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT

A new study marking 15 years of education reform points to tough challenges in cities and towns with burgeoning enrollments of low-income students and those lacking English skills.

A brave call for raising the charter cap - The Boston Globe

Fri, 29 May 2009 00:00:00 GMT

When MassINC speaks, its well worth listening. After all, the nonpartisan think tank has established itself as a thoughtful, careful, credible voice on public policy in Massachusetts.

Ed Reforms Next Steps - The Boston Herald

Thu, 28 May 2009 00:00:00 GMT

It has been 15 years - and billions of dollars - since Massachusetts embarked on the reform of public education.

Education overhaul facing big hurdles - The Boston Globe

Thu, 28 May 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Study cites impact of rising poverty, immigration levels.

Scrutiny for Special Ed - The Boston Herald

Mon, 18 May 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Its necessity can't mean blank check

Avoid the boom and bust - The Boston Herald

Fri, 17 Apr 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Bay State budget-writers have been all too happy in recent years to balance the state budget on revenue from the highly volatile capital gains tax. But it’s a gamble that is not paying off for taxpayers.

High-tech breakdown - CommonWealth magazine

Wed, 15 Apr 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Speedy replies are rare at government websites in Massachusetts.

Spending Spiral - CommonWealth magazine

Wed, 15 Apr 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Massachusetts is funneling more and more money into special education, even as regular education students face big spending cuts. But there is little evidence that this huge investment is paying off.

Strings attached - CommonWealth magazine

Wed, 15 Apr 2009 00:00:00 GMT

With the speaker calling all the shots, freewheeling debate and dissent have all but vanished from the Massachusetts House of Representatives. Is there any hope for democracy in the General Court?

The shape of watts to come - CommonWealth Magazine

Wed, 15 Apr 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Energy efficiency and renewable power sources may be the future of electric power, but fossil fuel plants haven’t run out of steam.

Walsh Fiasco Shows Value of Pubic Records Law Metro West Daily News

Tue, 14 Apr 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The emails that derailed the state Sen. Marian Walsh's bid for a high-paying state authority job saw the light of day only because of the Massachusetts Public Records Law.

Incumbents' Paradise - The Boston Globe

Sat, 04 Apr 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Winning public office for the first time may be a slog in Massachusetts, but once elected, most officials who don't break the law can stay as long as they like.

Life on the brink - The Boston Globe

Wed, 18 Mar 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Tough times, locals will tell you, are always tougher here.

Would-be Governors No Reason to Wobble - The Boston Herald

Wed, 18 Mar 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Go for it, Gov. Give it a try, Tim. C'mon Charlie, the Grand Old Party needs you.

Older cities require both credit, respect

Sun, 15 Mar 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Once vibrant, industrial cities like Springfield, Brockton, Holyoke and Chelsea haven't aged gracefully, but economic development experts argue it's too soon to write their obituaries.

Region Would Gain From GOP Revival - Salem News

Tue, 10 Mar 2009 00:00:00 GMT

North Shore Republicans have an opportunity to increase their clout in the years ahead

Future Charted for Springfield - Sunday Republican

Sun, 08 Mar 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Following up the study will be an action plan to boost city's economy in the coming decades.

Bay State Needs a Viable GOP - The Eagle Tribune

Mon, 02 Mar 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The debate currently taking place throughout the state over the merits of an increase in the gasoline tax, is further evidence of why Massachusetts needs a viable Republican party.

Less Than Public Records - The Boston Globe

Sun, 08 Feb 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The Massachusetts Public Records Law gives government officials too many ways to withold information.

Reawakening the two party system

Sat, 07 Feb 2009 00:00:00 GMT

After Massachusetts waved goodbye to its third consecutive ethically challenged speaker of the House last week, the spotlight is now on his successor.

Reawakening the Two-Party System in Mass - The Boston Globe

Wed, 04 Feb 2009 00:00:00 GMT

After Massachusetts waved goodbye to its third consecutive ethically challenged speaker of the House last week, the spotlight is now on his successor.

Ending the one-party state - CommonWealth Magazine

Tue, 20 Jan 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Contested legislative races are rare in Massachusetts and universal in Minnesota. What can we learn from the Gopher State?

The Maverick - CommonWealth magazine

Tue, 20 Jan 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Gov. Deval Patrick is trying to consolidate control over county sheriffs, but at least one of them isn't going down without a fight.

The Old College Try - Business West

Mon, 05 Jan 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Two initiatives from different UMass campuses are coming together in the City of Homes as part of efforts to foster economic growth, provide a platform for the arts and promote 'green' businesses.

Broken Homes - CommonWealth Magazine

Thu, 01 Jan 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The housing bubble was built on reckless lending. When it burst, it sent Wall Street, and the world economy, reeling. In Massachusetts, struggling urban neighborhoods are paying the heaviest price.

Utah's Financial Literacy Requirement - CommonWealth Magazine

Thu, 01 Jan 2009 00:00:00 GMT

State requires all high school students to pass a semester finance course

The state's binge-purge diet - The Boston Globe

Wed, 17 Dec 2008 00:00:00 GMT

The downward spiral in the economy has aggravated the state's revenue shortfall precisely when the services the state renders - from public safety to heating and rental assistance - are most needed by the public.

Capital Solutions - The Boston Herald

Mon, 08 Dec 2008 00:00:00 GMT

A timely new report has exposed one of Beacon Hill’s poorly-kept secrets.

Dwindling capital gains taxes add to state woes - Athol Daily News

Mon, 08 Dec 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Capital gains taxes may be the ultimate fiscal narcotic.

Meeting market - CommonWealth magazine

Tue, 21 Oct 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Boston's new convention center is doing better than expected, but it has missed its most important economic benchmark. So why might its managers supersize it?

Paper tiger - CommonWealth magazine

Tue, 21 Oct 2008 00:00:00 GMT

The state's Public Records Law is flouted by officials at all levels of government

Plush park - CommonWealth magazine

Tue, 21 Oct 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Big ambitions come with a steep price tag for the Rose Kennedy Greenway.

We need to join forces on Gateway Cities - Springfield Republican

Sun, 19 Oct 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Earlier this month, a historic gathering of state and local officials in Fall River showcased an issue that could affect the state's economy for generations to come.

Moving the goal posts - CommonWealth magazine

Tue, 22 Jul 2008 00:00:00 GMT

The Community Preservation Act, designed to create open space and affordable housing, is being used to pay for sidewalks and artificial turf.

Preserving power - CommonWealth magazine

Tue, 22 Jul 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Secretary of State Galvin keeps a lid on the state's tax credits for historic rehabilitation

Pump it up - CommonWealth Magazine

Tue, 22 Jul 2008 00:00:00 GMT

The Bay State's debt-ridden transportation agencies preside over networks that are literally falling apart. New gas tax revenues may be the only way out.

Meeting the bullish expectations of youth - The New Bedford Standard Times

Sun, 20 Jul 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Maybe it is the pure exuberance of youth or maybe those ages 25 to 39 are wiser than everyone else, but that group of young adults is still bullish on the American Dream.

Economy can't bring them down - MetroWest Daily News

Wed, 16 Jul 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Survey says young adults in Mass. carry a lot of debt, worry about their finances.

Generation Next - Worcester Telegram and Gazette

Wed, 16 Jul 2008 00:00:00 GMT

People 25 to 39 see good, bad in Mass.

Most young Bay Staters say future's bright - The Boston Globe

Wed, 16 Jul 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Survey taken to learn how to keep key demographic.

Young adults bolt state to save ca$h - The Boston Herald

Wed, 16 Jul 2008 00:00:00 GMT

One in five young adults expects to leave Massachusetts during the next five years amid frustrations with the high cost of living and state government's response to their concerns, according to a new survey.

A Gateway Cities Guru - The Lowell Sun

Sun, 29 Jun 2008 00:00:00 GMT

MassINC's Schneider bullish on communities like Lowell

Youth civic group talking 'bout their generation - The Boston Globe

Tue, 24 Jun 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Cara Sullivan lives in the West End, works at State Street Corp., and is happily immersed in the civic life of Boston. None of this makes her unusual. But Sullivan's age - 24 - does.

Springfield allies with 10 fellow Gateway Cities - The Brookings Institution

Mon, 19 May 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Springfield was represented at an event today in Boston, at the Old State House and hosted by MassINC, signaling a new allegiance of cities across the state.

Reforming the state budget process - Daily Hampshire Gazette

Tue, 22 Apr 2008 00:00:00 GMT

The Massachusetts budget faces a structural imbalance, with on-going spending exceeding revenues.

Budget for pain

Thu, 17 Apr 2008 00:00:00 GMT

For 'Taxachusetts,' cure would be worse than illness.

News from a new generation - CommonWealth magazine

Thu, 17 Apr 2008 00:00:00 GMT

In tight times, investigative journalism is being re-energized by colleges and nonprofits.

Subsidizing the stars - CommonWealth magazine

Thu, 17 Apr 2008 00:00:00 GMT

More than ever, the state is using tax breaks to attract favored industries- from life sciences to movie making

Budgeting through a recession

Wed, 09 Apr 2008 00:00:00 GMT

It's time again for reform.

A question of equity - CommonWealth magazine

Thu, 24 Jan 2008 00:00:00 GMT

The importance of school integration is up for debate

Playing the numbers - CommonWealth magazine

Thu, 24 Jan 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Do Patrick’s casino projections add up?

Reality sets in - CommonWealth magazine

Thu, 24 Jan 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Deval Patrick's first year brings some hard lessons.

Turning down the heat - CommonWealth magazine

Thu, 24 Jan 2008 00:00:00 GMT

An anti-gang task force takes to the streets in Chelsea and Lynn

Patrick faults absent ex gov for Mass job rut - The Boston Herald

Thu, 20 Dec 2007 00:00:00 GMT

WIth the New Hampshire primary just weeks away, Gov. Deval Patrick yesterday slammed Mitt Romney for allowing Bay State job numbers to slump to national lows.

Job-growth study: Mass. next to last - The Boston Globe

Wed, 28 Nov 2007 00:00:00 GMT

Massachusetts' job growth has lagged all but one state's in recent years, according to a new study.

Massachusetts lags in job creation - The Springfield Republican

Wed, 28 Nov 2007 00:00:00 GMT

Massachusetts lags all but one other state in job creation.

Mass ranks 49th in job creation

Wed, 28 Nov 2007 00:00:00 GMT

The state "is developing a highly specialized economy...that rewards well-educated and skilled workers...but offers fewer options for everyone else," says a study spokesman.

State lagging on jobs - Worcester Telegram and Gazette

Wed, 28 Nov 2007 00:00:00 GMT

Few benefit in a 'boutique economy.'

The niche economy - The Boston Globe

Wed, 28 Nov 2007 00:00:00 GMT

Every beginning investor is told how important it is to diversify. Yet Massachusetts is in danger of concentrating its job growth in highly specialized "boutique" economic sectors that leave out too many workers.

Focus on renewal - Worcester Telegram and Gazette

Tue, 27 Feb 2007 00:00:00 GMT

MassINC and the Brookings Institution made a splash this week with a report that paints a bleak picture of what it terms "gateway cities."

State must leverage its gateway cities - The Springfield Republican

Tue, 27 Feb 2007 00:00:00 GMT

Massachusetts has to save itself because no federal cavalry is coming to the rescue.

Unite mill towns around our agenda - The New Bedford Standard Times

Tue, 27 Feb 2007 00:00:00 GMT

MassINC and the Brookings Institution gently call them the "gateway" cities.

Drained mill cities are challenged - Worcester Telegram and Gazette

Mon, 26 Feb 2007 00:00:00 GMT

While showing some signs of emerging from their smokestack pasts, Worcester, Fitchburg and the state's other mill cities are still very much in Boston's shadow in the knowledge-based economy.

Gateway to growth - The Brockton Enterprise

Mon, 26 Feb 2007 00:00:00 GMT

A report due out today predicts a rosy future for many former mill cities and communities around them.

State group aims to revive Lowell - The Lowell Sun

Mon, 26 Feb 2007 00:00:00 GMT

Massachusetts mill cities are crumbling under the weight of their legacy.

Current MBTA system's saftey, reliability must be fully funded first

Mon, 01 Jan 0001 00:00:00 GMT

MassINC Senior Policy Fellow Dan Grabauskas in Globe's letters to the editor.

debate

Mon, 01 Jan 0001 00:00:00 GMT

Massachusetts youth see good times ahead

Mon, 01 Jan 0001 00:00:00 GMT

Poll Many satisfied with schools

Mon, 01 Jan 0001 00:00:00 GMT

Press Coverage

Mon, 01 Jan 0001 00:00:00 GMT

Price and Value

Mon, 01 Jan 0001 00:00:00 GMT

Redistricting challenge

Mon, 01 Jan 0001 00:00:00 GMT

Rethinking reform next wave will require bolder steps

Mon, 01 Jan 0001 00:00:00 GMT

Steve Sweeney will put the fun in fundraiser

Mon, 01 Jan 0001 00:00:00 GMT

WBUR Poll Undeclared Elizabeth Warren 9 Points Behind Sen Brown

Mon, 01 Jan 0001 00:00:00 GMT

WBUR Poll Undeclared Elizabeth Warren 9 Points Behind Sen Brown

Mon, 01 Jan 0001 00:00:00 GMT

WBUR Poll Undeclared Elizabeth Warren 9 Points Behind Sen Brown

Mon, 01 Jan 0001 00:00:00 GMT

Early poll shows wide lead for King edge for same sex marriage Bangor ME Daily News

Mon, 01 Jan 0001 00:00:00 GMT