State Representative Ann-Margaret Ferrante (D-Gloucester) effectively advocated for the inclusion of $1.5 million for historic restoration projects on Cape Ann, including Gloucester City Hall, the historic fishing vessel Phyllis A. and the Gloucester Stage Company Theater. All three projects are important in maintaining the area’s culture, heritage and in stimulating the local tourism economy. The capital bond bill allocates funds to be used for capital facility repairs and improvements for the Commonwealth.

“Cape Ann has long been known for its storied history. I am pleased that my colleagues understand how valuable these assets are to Cape Ann and to the Commonwealth. In doing so, we grow the creative economy of Cape Ann and maintain our status as an historic and cultural leader. Every dollar invested in tourism yields seven dollars in economic development; not only is the passing of the capital bond bill great for the arts and culture of Cape Ann, but it is also a great economic driver for our community.”

Representative Ferrante successfully lobbied her colleagues in the House of Representatives to include the historic restoration money in the final conference committee version of the bill. The Conference Committee bill passed the House on July 26 on a voice vote. The bill now moves to the Senate and the Governor for final approval.