‘Ideas in Action,’ the city of Boston’s “participatory budgeting” initiative, is now open for Boston residents to make their own proposals on how to spend $2.2 million of the city budget. Now through July 31, visit boston.gov/participate in the “idea collection” phase of the process.
“Ideas in Action’ brings communities and city government together to foster a collective vision for Boston,” said Mayor Michelle Wu. “In the first year residents decided to fund many great ideas — ranging from making fresh foods more accessible, to advancing programs to support our youth, and we can’t wait to hear their ideas for Cycle 2.”
The city’s Office of Participatory Budgeting will partner with trusted community-based organizations across the city to hold ‘Ideas in Action’ workshops this summer. After collecting project ideas from residents, both in person and online, the City will organize community forums in the fall where residents will assist in developing proposals for a ballot. Those proposals will then be available for voting in January of 2026. All ideas submitted also help inform future City budget investments.
“Participatory Budgeting is helping us build a culture of civic engagement that includes young people, immigrants, and our Black and Brown communities,” said City Council President Ruthzee Louijeune. “It’s a model of governance of which Boston can be proud.”
Residents may participate by:
• Submitting project ideas online;
• Calling and recording ideas through the multilingual PB Phone Line at (617) 635-3059;
• Visiting City Hall or any Boston Public Library branch to submit ideas;
• Attending in-person ‘Idea Collection Workshops’ organized by nonprofit organizations throughout the City starting this July.
