CITY OF BOSTON + MASSACHUSETTS OFFICE OF THE MAYOR, MARTIN J. WALSH. April 10, 2020 Senator James B. Eldridge Representative Claire Cronin Chair, Joint Committee on the Judiciary Chair, Joint Committee on the Judiciary State House, Room S11-C State House, Room 136 Boston, MA 02133 Boston, MA 02133 Dear Chair Cronin, Chair Eldridge and Members of the Committee: am writing to you today in support of H.4571, An Act designating September 14, 2020 as a legal holiday, filed by Governor Baker. This important piece of legislation is intended to allow for the postponement of the 124th Boston Marathon due to the public health emergency caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. ‘The Boston Marathon brings approximately 30,000 runners from across the Globe to Massachusetts, where they begin their trek from Hopkinton, all the way to turning their last left on Boylston and heading for the finish line in Copley Square in Boston’s Back Bay. The Marathon draws approximately one milion spectators ining the route and cheering on runners. By postponing the Marathon, we can ensure that athletes can run and spectators can celebrate safely, maintaining the enthusiasm, energy, and charitable giving that make our race so special. Each year the Marathon generates roughly $211 million towards the city’s economy, boosting revenue in the food and beverage industry, hospitality and tourism, and arts and culture across the region. By moving the date to September 14th, we will continue the prestige of this event as well as preserving the economic importance to our local economy, Our small and local businesses will need this revenue now more than ever, as we recover from economic disruption. respectfully request your support of this bill and thank you for your thoughtful consideration of the matter, If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to reach out to me directly or you may reach Alyssa Ring in the Mayor's Office of Intergovernmental Relations at (617) 635-3817. Sincerely, Martin J. Walsh Mayor of Boston BOSTON CITY HALL + ONE CITY HALL SQUARE « BOSTON + MASSACHUS! 617-635-4500» wwew.boston,gov TS + 02201