LYNN — The city was awarded $170,000 from the state legislature for funding of projects in Lynn

Lynn was awarded funds as part of the Massachusetts Legislature’s $63.4 billion Fiscal Year 2027 Budget. The list of projects with allocated funds includes Goldfish Pond, which was granted $25,000 for maintenance, along with $55,000 for the maintenance of Red Rock Park. Additionally, $40,000 was awarded to be used for the treatment of invasive species in City ponds.

The Goldfish Pond Association plans to use the new state funding to dredge the pond, remove silt, and refill it with fresh water, then rely on biologics to keep bacterial levels in check and maintain safer water quality, according to Gulab.

“Goodness knows how bad the bacterial counts are because they just multiply, but this will make it possible to maintain the pond,” said Sunil Gulab, president of the Goldfish Pond Association.

He said the association is “really excited about it because it’s been a concern for a while, and we get a few hundred people who come and visit Goldfish Pond daily.” Years without a full water change have allowed bacteria to multiply, creating a health risk for visitors — especially children who touch the water. The association sees dredging, fresh water and biologics as improvements for maintaining safe water quality, Gulab said.

“We’re looking at using biologics to keep the bacterial counts at bay. There are bacteria that actually break down organic matter. So once we do get it dredged, we will then look at what it will take to maintain the pond, so the water quality stays better than it is right now,” he said.

Red Rock Park and the city’s beaches, including Lynn Beach and King’s Beach, are managed by the Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR).

According to DCR’s website, King’s Beach is currently in a state of bacterial exceedance.

Lynn-based Kakrona Center Inc. was also awarded $50,000 from the FY27 Budget.

Kakrona Center Inc. is a nonprofit organization that aims to empower the Cambodian community in Lynn through cultural engagement, community events, outreach, and various support services.

The FY27 budget “is a trifecta of thoughtful, responsible legislating: It meets the needs of our constituents and adds to the state’s rainy day fund — all without raising taxes,” said state Rep. Jenny Armini. “Thank you to Speaker Mariano, Chairman Michlewitz, and their staffs for setting up Massachusetts for success — even in these uncertain times.”

“We appreciate the efforts of Rep. Armini in obtaining this important funding, and the ongoing partnership with her and the rest of our state delegation. We are fortunate to have their support and advocacy as we maintain these resources so that residents and visitors can get maximum use out of them,” said Mayor Jared C. Nicholson.

“This budget delivers meaningful investments that will benefit Lynn and communities across the Commonwealth, including stronger public schools, reliable transportation, support for our cities and towns, and protections for our most vulnerable residents, all without raising taxes,” said state Rep. Dan Cahill.

“By making smart investments in education, housing, and infrastructure while strengthening our fiscal reserves, we are helping families manage rising costs today and building a stronger, more resilient Massachusetts for the future. I am proud to support a budget that reflects responsible leadership and delivers real results for our community,” he said.