Council Approves PERG Grant

The Boston City Council approved a $99,476 grant from the United States Department of Transportation to enhance emergency response capabilities through the Pipeline Emergency Response Grant. This funding specifically targets high-consequence areas near a high-pressure natural gas pipeline in West Roxbury. The Boston Fire Department will train 203 firefighters and strengthen collaboration among agencies. Planned activities include an 8-hour command-level training session for 78 chief officers and HazMat specialists, as well as a multi-agency tabletop exercise involving the Fire Department, Police, Emergency Management, and pipeline operators. The grant will also support the acquisition of specialized equipment to improve early detection and response.

These initiatives are vital for protecting vulnerable populations and critical infrastructure, including the V. A. hospital and local schools. The Council referred Docket #1833 to the Committee on Public Safety and Criminal Justice on October 22, 2025. The approval of this grant reflects ongoing efforts to enhance public safety in the city.