Massachusetts § 77 - Expenses of maintenance and repair

Full text of Massachusetts Massachusetts General Laws § 77 — Expenses of maintenance and repair, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.

§ 77. Expenses of maintenance and repair

Section 77. After the completion of the work, the expense of maintenance and repair shall be paid as follows: if the public way crosses the railroad by an overhead bridge, the superstructure and subflooring of the bridge and its abutments or other supports shall be maintained and kept in repair by the railroad corporation, but the approaches of the bridge and the pavement or wearing surface over the subflooring shall be maintained and kept in repair by the city or town where situated, or, in case such public way is a state highway, by the commonwealth; if the public way passes under the railroad, the bridge and its abutments or supports shall be maintained and kept in repair by the railroad corporation, and the public way and its approaches shall be maintained and kept in repair by the city or town where situated, or, in case such public way is a state highway, by the commonwealth; if several railroads cross a public way at or near a given point, the department of highways shall apportion and award in what manner and proportion each of said railroad corporations shall maintain and keep in repair the superstructure and subflooring of the bridge and its abutments or supports if the public way crosses the railroad by an overhead bridge, and the bridge and its abutments or supports if the public way passes under said railroads.

Source: official Massachusetts text · Last verified 2026-08-27

Frequently Asked Questions About Massachusetts § 77

What does Massachusetts General Laws § 77 cover?

Section 77 ("Expenses of maintenance and repair") is part of the Massachusetts General Laws, the codified statutory law of Massachusetts. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.

How do I cite Massachusetts § 77?

A common citation format is "Massachusetts General Laws § 77" (Massachusetts). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.

Is this the official text of Massachusetts law?

No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Massachusetts official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Massachusetts attorney.

How does Massachusetts § 77 apply to my situation?

Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Massachusetts can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.

Sources & Verification

Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Massachusetts.