G
reg Bialecki's lasting impact on Massachusetts' economy and development is being remembered by those who knew him best. Two days before his death, he texted Yvonne Hao, Governor Maura Healey's economic development secretary, to congratulate her on a $4 billion economic development bill that had reached a deal in the Legislature. Bialecki was instrumental in shaping several key initiatives during his time in government, including Housing Choice zoning reform and the MassWorks program, which distributes hundreds of millions for infrastructure projects across the state.

    Bialecki's brainchild, the Mass. Growth Capital Corp. agency, helped small businesses survive the COVID-19 pandemic. He also got the state's life sciences subsidy program off the ground, making Massachusetts a global epicenter for biotech. His ability to think big and tackle thorny problems earned him respect from colleagues and adversaries alike.

    As secretary of housing and economic development under Governor Deval Patrick, Bialecki pushed for new housing and drew attention to its economic importance. He also proposed a subsidy program for market-rate housing in struggling mid-tier cities, which has proven wildly successful. Although he didn't succeed in passing comprehensive zoning reform during his time in office, his efforts laid the groundwork for future successes.

    Bialecki's legacy extends beyond his work in government. After leaving state service, he joined Redgate and helped tackle ambitious projects like the redevelopment of the Edison plant on the waterfront. His friends and colleagues remember him as a visionary who stayed true to his values and was always focused on the end game.

    Governor Maura Healey has noted Bialecki's advice and guidance during her administration, calling him "a visionary" whose work was "really transformational." The signing ceremony for the economic development bill that Bialecki had been celebrating just days before his death will likely have an empty seat in the front row.