Gov. Patrick outlines tax hike benefits map

BOSTON (WWLP) - State lawmakers aren't too enthusiastic about Governor Patrick's proposed state income tax hike.  But the governor isn't giving up.

Governor Deval Patrick has announced a new online map designed to show the benefits of investing in Massachusetts communities. 

The map lays out how state Senate and House districts will benefit from a $2 billion investment in education and transportation. For instance, Springfield Technical Community College will benefit from a statewide community college increase of $20 million. More than $1 million will be invested in a river walk/bikeway along the Connecticut River in Chicopee.

“Even so, people are hesitant to pay more in taxes,” said Patrick. “But the public knows and I know, that we can't cut, or reform our way to a new road.  We turn to taxes because roads and schools are the kinds of things we do together.” 

The governor has proposed to raise revenue through tax reforms that include increasing the state income tax and eliminating several corporate tax deductions.

House Speaker Robert DeLeo said Thursday it's unlikely the state income tax hike from 5.25 percent to 6.25 percent will pass.