Ribbon cutting ceremony marked exciting step toward a greener future for the region

The North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce celebrated a ribbon cutting on September 30, to commemorate the installation of two electric vehicle (EV) charging stations. The event, which was held at the Chamber’s headquarters located at 860 South Street in Fitchburg, featured a luncheon with the region’s business, civic and community leaders.

The project was a collaboration with Unitil, DMH Electric and Fuse Energy. Unitil provided a grant to fund a majority of the project while DMH Electric performed the installation and Fuse Energy helped with negotiating the energy contract. All of the companies are Chamber members and sponsors of the charging stations.

“This project represents exactly what makes our region special—Chamber members stepping up to support one another and invest in our shared future,” said Roy M. Nascimento, president and CEO, North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce. “By working together to install these EV charging stations near major travel routes, we’re enhancing our commitment to sustainability while making North Central Massachusetts more accessible to electric vehicle drivers. I’m grateful to DMH Electric for their exceptional project management and generous sponsorship, and to Unitil and Fuse Energy for making this vision a reality. When our members collaborate like this, we all win.”

The EV charging stations are available for EV drivers 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. The two chargers provide space for up to four EVs to charge at the same time. Payment can be made via an app, contactless card or QR code, and pricing varies based on charging speed, energy and/or time.

“Establishing a comprehensive regional network of EV charging stations is essential for promoting sustainable transportation for the region, which reduces carbon emissions and enhances access to electric vehicles. We are pleased to have provided technical assistance during the planning and implementation phases, as well as financial support through a rebate. By working collaboratively, these types of initiatives become feasible for businesses and local governments to invest in this vital infrastructure,” said Arianna MacNeill, municipal and community services executive for Unitil.

“DMH Electric is happy to support the Chamber on this project,” said David Hinckley Jr., director of EV sales and operations, DMH Electric. “Installing these charging stations was a great collaboration, and we appreciate working with Fuse Energy to help power these units and make EV charging more accessible in our region. It’s rewarding to work on infrastructure that benefits our community.”

“At the heart of Fuse Energy is our commitment to making a difference in our communities and supporting organizations committed to a more sustainable world,” said Steve Janes, founder and managing partner, Fuse Energy. “We are proud to be part of this project with the Chamber to advance renewable energy in the North Central Massachusetts region through the installation of these EV charging stations.”

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The future of North Central Massachusetts is in capable hands, as evidenced by the remarkable achievements of the 24 graduates who completed the Chamber’s Community Leadership Institute (CLI) program this year. These emerging leaders were recognized during the Chamber’s Annual Meeting on June 12, marking the culmination of a transformative nine-month journey.

The CLI program represents far more than professional development—it’s an investment in our region’s future. “The Chamber developed CLI to inspire a new generation of community leaders to enthusiastically assume important roles in their communities while motivating participants from diverse backgrounds to be influential in our region’s future,” explained Roy M. Nascimento, president and CEO of the North Central Massachusetts Chamber.

A Comprehensive Leadership Journey

Running from October through June, the program includes an orientation and eight intensive, day-long sessions covering critical areas that shape our region. Participants dive deep into topics ranging from personal leadership and nonprofit governance to media communications, healthcare, law and justice, arts and culture, legislation, manufacturing, and economic development. This comprehensive curriculum ensures graduates understand the complex interconnections that drive regional success.

Mike Greenwood, Ph.D., chair of the business and technology department at Fitchburg State University and CLI program chairperson, was particularly impressed with this year’s cohort. “I am amazed with the dedication, creativity and motivation of our participants,” said Dr. Greenwood. “Programs like CLI are important to our community and help ensure a continuity of leadership, engagement and service as our region’s current leaders pass the baton to the next generation.”

Making an Impact Beyond the Classroom

What truly sets CLI apart is its emphasis on community service and real-world application. This year’s class demonstrated remarkable initiative, organizing food collections for local food pantries, collecting professional clothing for Fitchburg State University students, and providing financial literacy sessions to students across the region. They also rallied around a classmate who started a nonprofit to benefit cancer patients, showcasing the collaborative spirit that defines the program.

The impact continues well beyond graduation. The Class of 2025 is currently proposing mental health legislation, creating a support group for mothers, and recently organized a murder mystery gala to benefit Ginny’s Helping Hand in Leominster.

Building Lasting Connections

When asked about their favorite aspects of the program, participants consistently highlighted the relationships with fellow classmates as the most meaningful takeaway. These connections, forged through shared experiences and collaborative projects, create a network of engaged leaders committed to our region’s prosperity.

The CLI experience also provided participants with invaluable leadership lessons, insightful site visits, deeper community connections, and a more comprehensive understanding of the local region—all essential tools for effective leadership.

Continuing the Legacy

The Community Leadership Institute stands as a testament to the Chamber’s commitment to developing homegrown talent and ensuring strong leadership continuity in North Central Massachusetts. With each graduating class, we’re building a stronger foundation for our region’s future, one leader at a time.

Graduates of the CLI Class of 2025 and their sponsors are as follows:

Ely Aguilera, Rollstone Bank & Trust
Hannah Bovill, Bemis Associates
Stefanae Bowen, Mount Wachusett Community College
Marian Colon, Enterprise Bank & Trust
Cat Comerford, Workers Credit Union
Travis Condon, North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce
Emily Dewey, IC Federal Credit Union
Danielle Duval, All One Credit Union
Rosa Fernandez, Health Equity Partnership of North Central Massachusetts
Luisa Fernandez, Fitchburg Public Schools
Calla Flannery, Workers Credit Union
Jacqui Girouard, AIS
Nate Glenny, Fitchburg Access Television
Deborah Hinkle, Fitchburg Public Library
Lauren Howe, EmpHowered PR
Brittany Knowles, Bin There Dump That
Meghan Maceiko, Community Foundation of North Central Massachusetts
Sabbra Reyes, Visit North Central MA
Brandon Robbins, Ginny’s Helping Hand
Eladia Romero, Office of Rep. James McGovern
Jake Simopoulos, Office of Senator John J. Cronin
Kristen Smith, NXT Level Studios
Sarah Tavitian, NewVue Communities
Lynese Wiafe, Fitchburg State University

For more information about the Community Leadership Institute, visit northcentralmass.com/community-leadership-institute or contact Maureen Babcock at 978.353.7600, ext. 222.

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Throughout the summer months, the Chamber has maintained an active presence in policy discussions that directly impact your business operations and growth opportunities. From engaging with federal tax reform to advocating for critical state funding and strengthening municipal partnerships, our advocacy efforts have focused on removing barriers and creating opportunities for North Central Massachusetts businesses and communities.

As we transition into fall, we’re excited to offer several high-profile events that will connect you directly with decision-makers shaping the policies affecting your bottom line.

Federal Affairs

Tax Bill Analysis: At the end of July, the Chamber took an in-depth look at the “One Big Beautiful Bill Act” (H.R. 1) and provided a comprehensive summary and analysis for members of the North Central Massachusetts business community. When signed into law, the bill clocked in at 870 pages worth of provisions that significantly impact tax policy, business operations, and federal spending across multiple sectors.

Recognizing that this bill impacts businesses as well as employees in different ways, the Chamber provided an objective, fact-based analysis. We focused on key tax provisions that impact the local business community like making the Section 199A qualified business income deduction of 20% permanent, SALT relief, and changes to 1099 reporting requirements. We also examined the enhanced business expensing and research and development expenditures, two issues that have dominated discussions with employers in recent years.

The analysis also looked at items affecting employers and employees including changes to individual income tax rates, no tax on tips and overtime provisions, changes to the estate tax, and family and medical leave credits. It was also important to recognize that the provision included a number of changes to areas and programs like Medicaid, SNAP, the energy sector and education. The analysis examined how these changes may impact specific industries in the region, employees as well as the overall workforce and items for employers to consider as provisions of the bill are implemented. The complete analysis is available online here.

Trade Policy: As we noted in our last newsletter, the Trump Administration continues to utilize increased tariffs as an integral part of its foreign and economic policies, with announcements, retractions, and pauses affecting various industries and countries. The Chamber has continued to monitor these developments throughout the summer and remains in communication with our congressional delegation and partners with the U.S. Chamber of Commerce to advocate for member interests in trade policy discussions.

Congressional Luncheon: The Chamber is currently engaging with Congressman Jim McGovern and Congresswoman Lori Trahan’s offices as we finalize our annual Congressional Luncheon. This popular event provides members with an opportunity to hear from the region’s Congressional representation about what is being worked on in Washington D.C. as well as an opportunity to engage them on issues facing the region’s business community. At the time of this writing, the event is tentatively scheduled for November 7, with more details to be released as they become available.

State Affairs

State Budget: On July 4, Governor Maura Healey signed the state’s FY2026 budget which came in at $60.9 billion following conference committee and $130 million in vetoes from the Governor. While missing the July 1st deadline, this was the earliest a spending budget for the Commonwealth had been signed in 15 years. The Chamber was pleased to see that the final version of the plan did not include any major taxes or new fees.

Following its passage, the Chamber has engaged our state delegation regarding the Governor’s veto of regional economic development funding. This funding directly supports services and resources that help local businesses start, grow, and expand—critical services that our members rely on to navigate challenges and seize opportunities in today’s economy. On the tourism front, the Chamber successfully advocated for amendments regarding timing allocation and usage of tourism funds that will help build effective marketing campaigns for the region in the coming year. A strong tourism sector drives customer traffic to local businesses, supports hospitality and retail jobs, and generates vital economic activity throughout our communities. While these funds were approved, the Governor has delayed their release until Fall, citing fiscal uncertainty and pending federal budget cuts. The Chamber is actively monitoring this situation to ensure our region receives these critical resources.

Local Affairs

Municipal Engagement: Throughout the summer, staff from the Chamber continued to communicate and meet with local officials in our communities. Recently, discussions have taken place with municipal staff in Ayer, Lancaster, Sterling, Winchendon, and our three cities: Fitchburg, Gardner and Leominster to discuss a range of items important to our members including zoning and permitting, economic development and housing. These ongoing dialogues strengthen the Chamber’s role as a vital advocate and connector between businesses and local government. This direct engagement helps our members navigate local regulations more efficiently, access development opportunities faster, and ensures their business concerns are heard at the municipal level where many critical decisions affecting day-to-day operations are made.

Legislative and Candidates Reception: Once again, the Chamber will convene members and officials for our annual Legislative and Candidates Reception. This year’s event will feature a change of scenery when it occurs on Thursday September 25 from 5:00pm to 7:00pm at the Sterling National Country Club. This signature event puts our members in the room with our local officials, mayors, legislative delegation, congressional delegation and statewide constitutional officers as well as those running for office for a night of networking and conversation. Invitations are currently being prepared and sent out for officials and candidates.

Tourism Destination Marketing District: The Chamber has been working with hospitality industry members throughout the region to explore the potential for tourism destination marketing districts. We are now focused on establishing the first district in Fitchburg in 2026. This business-led initiative would give our region greater control over tourism promotion, enhance regional efforts and reduce reliance on state funding—allowing local businesses to directly invest in and shape marketing efforts that drive visitors to their establishments. Once the Fitchburg district is operational, we plan to explore expanding this model to other communities throughout the region.

For more information about any of these government affairs updates or to discuss specific policy concerns, please contact Travis Condon, Director of Public Affairs at 978.353.7600 or via email at .

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A business-led solution to one of our region’s greatest workforce challenges

After years of research, planning, and collaboration, North Central Massachusetts is taking a bold step forward in addressing one of our most persistent economic challenges: transportation barriers that limit workforce participation and business growth. The North Central Massachusetts Rides Transportation Management Association (TMA) represents an innovative, business-led approach to solving the transportation puzzle that has long hindered our region’s economic potential.

The Business Case for Action

Transportation barriers don’t just inconvenience workers—these are obstacles that directly impact bottom lines. When qualified employees do not have access to reliable transportation to commute to and from work, businesses face chronic staffing challenges, increased turnover costs, and limited access to talent pools. In our largely rural region, where many communities lack comprehensive public transit, these challenges are particularly acute.

The data tells a compelling story. According to the 2022 UMass Donahue Institute workforce study commissioned by the Chamber, transportation emerged as one of the top barriers preventing full workforce participation in North Central Massachusetts. The study found that while public transportation exists in the region, it faces significant limitations: the commuter rail is designed primarily to bring workers from North Central Massachusetts into Boston rather than around the region, and while the Montachusett Area Transit Authority (MART) provides essential fixed-route bus services throughout the region, the challenge is often the “last mile” connectivity between transit stops and workplaces. The study noted that “getting from commuter rail through the ‘last mile’ to their workplace is a challenge for workers in the area unless their employer happens to be along an existing route.”

“Using public transportation for commuting outside of Leominster, Fitchburg, and Ayer is not a viable option for job seekers,” the study noted, identifying this as a critical impediment to regional economic growth. The research specifically recommended developing a TMA for the North Central Massachusetts Region as a strategic solution to these transportation challenges.

Understanding Transportation Management Associations

TMAs are membership-based, public-private partnerships that bring together employers, property owners, institutions, and municipalities to provide and promote transportation options for commuters. Think of them as regional cooperatives focused on solving practical business challenges through innovative transportation solutions.

TMAs complement—rather than compete with—existing public transit systems. While MART provides essential fixed-route bus services, the TMA will focus on more flexible, targeted solutions, such as shared shuttle services, and employer-specific transportation programs that can fill gaps in the existing transit network.

Bruno Fisher, administrator, MART, sees the TMA as a valuable partner in expanding regional mobility options. “MART is excited to be working collaboratively with the North Central Massachusetts Rides TMA and the diverse group of stakeholders the association is building. Our fixed-route services provide the backbone of public transportation in the region, but we recognize businesses and workers have diverse transportation requiring flexible solutions to supplement the services provided by MART. The TMA’s ability to provide targeted shuttle services and micro-transit options will complement our larger bus network perfectly by providing access to businesses outside the fixed route network and creating a more comprehensive transportation system that serves everyone better.”

Neil Angus, director of the Devens Enterprise Commission and a founding TMA member, sees the initiative building on proven success. “The Devens Shuttle we launched in 2017 in partnership with MART proved municipal-employer partnerships for transportation solutions can work. The Fitchburg Line Working Group has also worked to greatly improve MBTA commuter rail services in our region. The TMA takes this collaborative model region-wide, connecting municipalities, residents and employment centers across North Central Massachusetts. What we learned—that businesses collaborating with local, regional, and state government can solve challenges no single employer can tackle alone—is now scaling across North Central Massachusetts.”

TMAs have proven successful across Massachusetts, in places like the Route 128 corridor, the Middlesex 3 area, and in Greater Boston and Cambridge. They typically offer tools to facilitate carpools and vanpool formation, an emergency ride home program that guarantees alternative transportation for employees who commute via a shared transportation, shuttle services to fill critical transportation gaps, and transit planning and promotion to maximize use of existing public transportation.

A Regional Response to Regional Challenges

The formation of our TMA didn’t happen overnight. It emerged from extensive community engagement led by the Health Equity Partnership of North Central Massachusetts (CHNA9) through their Anchor Collaborative initiative. This collaborative process involved healthcare providers, educational institutions, major employers, government offices, and transportation authorities across our region.

“Transportation has been consistently identified as a key contributor to health disparities in every Community Health Assessment process in our region since at least 2014,” explains Chelsey Patriss, executive director, CHNA9/Health Equity Partnership of North Central Massachusetts. “Through the Anchor Collaborative, we brought together institutions that employ thousands of people and serve even more residents to address this fundamental barrier to economic opportunity and health access. The TMA represents the practical, business-focused solution that emerged from this collaborative assessment.”

The initiative also aligns with the Chamber’s “One North Central” regional economic development plan, which identified transportation infrastructure as critical for regional growth, business attraction, and workforce development.

Chamber Leadership Driving Innovation

This initiative reflects the Chamber’s commitment to addressing real barriers facing members and the broader business community. Throughout the collaborative development process, the Chamber maintained a seat at the table, working alongside members and regional stakeholders to explore the formation of this innovative solution. Building on this commitment to regional leadership, the Chamber has agreed to serve as the host organization for the TMA, providing administrative infrastructure while the TMA operates as an independent affiliate with its own board, budget, and governance structure.

“This TMA initiative represents exactly the kind of innovative, collaborative approach our region needs,” said Roy Nascimento, president and CEO, North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce. “We understand transportation challenges limit our businesses’ access to talent and our workers’ access to opportunity. By hosting this TMA as an affiliate organization, the Chamber maintains its leadership role in exploring the development of practical solutions to shared challenges. This isn’t just about transportation—it’s about strengthening our economic competitiveness and creating positive conditions for business growth.”

The TMA’s founding members represent a cross-section of our region’s major employers and institutions, each bringing unique perspectives and employee populations to the collaborative effort.

Technical Expertise Driving Results

The TMA benefits from professional management by TransAction Associates, a Massachusetts-based firm with over 33 years of experience in transportation program management and TMA operations. Michele Brooks, director of consulting, TransAction Associates, brings deep expertise to the North Central Massachusetts region.

“TMAs work because they create economies of scale and shared resources individual employers couldn’t achieve alone,” Brooks explains. “In North Central Massachusetts, we’re seeing exactly the kind of collaborative spirit that makes TMAs successful. The region’s employers understand transportation challenges affect everyone, and they’re willing to work together on solutions. Rural TMAs face unique challenges due to geography and lower population density, but they also have opportunities to be innovative and responsive to specific community needs.”

Practical Benefits for Businesses

For Chamber members, TMA participation offers tangible benefits that directly impact business operations:

Cost Savings: Shared transportation resources reduce individual company investment in employee transportation while creating efficiencies to lower overall transportation-related costs.

Improved Recruitment and Retention: Enhanced transportation options expand the geographic area from which businesses can recruit talent, while employee satisfaction with commute options improves retention rates.

Reduced Absenteeism: Reliable transportation alternatives reduce weather-related and vehicle-related absences, improving operational consistency.

Environmental Benefits: Coordinated transportation initiatives help businesses meet sustainability goals and potentially qualify for environmental incentives.

Regional Economic Development: Improved transportation connectivity makes the entire region more attractive to new businesses and residents, creating a rising tide that lifts all regional enterprises.

Rozanna Penney, president and CEO, Heywood Healthcare and a founding member of the TMA, sees the program as essential for both workforce recruitment and patient access. “Healthcare is one of our region’s largest employment sectors, but we’re also acutely aware of how transportation barriers affect our patients’ ability to access care and our employees’ ability to get to work reliably. With 1,700 employees, we understand transportation solutions benefit not just our workforce, but the entire community we serve.”

Business-Led Governance and Participation

The TMA operates on its own membership and fee-for-service model, separate from Chamber membership, designed to be accessible to businesses of all sizes while ensuring sustainable operations. Membership dues are structured based on organization’s type and size, with different levels for employers, property owners, residential properties, and municipalities. This business-led investment model ensures all members have a voice in TMA governance—every member organization has the opportunity to designate a representative to serve on the TMA’s board of directors, keeping control firmly in the hands of the business community.

Tricia Pistone, AVP of external affairs at HealthAlliance-Clinton Hospital and chair of the TMA’s founding board, emphasizes the collaborative vision driving this initiative. “As healthcare providers, we see firsthand how transportation barriers impact not just our workforce, but the health outcomes of our community. Taking on the board chair role represents HealthAlliance’s commitment to being part of the solution. This TMA brings together the collective strength of our region’s major employers to tackle a challenge none of us could solve alone. By pooling our resources and expertise, we’re creating sustainable transportation solutions that will benefit our employees, our patients, and ultimately strengthen the economic vitality of North Central Massachusetts.”

Initial Programming and Future Growth

In addition to founding member commitments from the private sector, the TMA has received an $85,000 grant from MassDOT’s TMA Assistance Program to help establish operations. The TMA’s initial year will focus on getting the organization up and running and establishing core services, including implementing a ridesharing and trip planning platform, an emergency ride home program, and marketing initiatives. Ongoing collaboration with MART will also expand awareness and utilization of existing transportation options. Future programming may include shuttle services to fill identified gaps, expanded vanpool coordination, and specialized transportation solutions for shift workers and off-hours employment.

Jason Zelesky, vice president of student affairs and dean of students, Mount Wachusett Community College and a founding TMA member, emphasizes the connection between transportation and educational opportunity. “Our students often face significant challenges getting to campus and to work-study opportunities. Many are balancing education with employment, and reliable transportation is critical for their success. The TMA will help our students access not just education, but the career opportunities that follow graduation.”

A Sustainable, Collaborative Model

Unlike traditional public transit systems that rely heavily on government funding, the TMA model creates sustainable financing through member investment, grant funding, and potential fee-for-service revenue. This reduced reliance on government funding also makes the TMA more flexible and responsive to market conditions and the specific needs of participating employers and workers. The organization has already secured preliminary member commitments of $30,000, in addition to the MassDOT grant.

“Transportation equity isn’t just a social good—it’s an economic necessity,” notes Nascimento. “When people can’t get to work, businesses can’t find workers. When patients can’t access healthcare, the overall health of those in our community suffers. The TMA addresses these equity concerns while strengthening our regional economy.”

The TMA is exploring additional funding opportunities to help employers with transportation solutions and is looking to recruit more members who face transportation challenges and would benefit from a collaborative solution.

Getting Involved

Chamber members interested in joining the TMA can contact Michele Brooks at TransAction Associates for information about joining the TMA and requirements. The TMA operates as a separate organization with its own board, budget, and finances, while benefiting from Chamber administrative support and regional connections.

“The TMA represents the kind of innovative, collaborative solution our region needs to compete in today’s economy,” concludes Patriss. “By working together, we can create transportation solutions that no single employer could achieve alone, while building an infrastructure for future economic growth.”

For more information about TMA membership opportunities, contact Michele Brooks at TransAction Associates or visit the Chamber website at www.NorthCentralMass.com .

The North Central Massachusetts Rides Transportation Management Association operates as an affiliate of the North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce. TMA membership is separate from Chamber membership and operates under its own governance structure and fee schedule.

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