A proposal in the Massachusetts House budget would provide $4 million to support Boston's response to drug use, homelessness and public safety issues in the area around Massachusetts Avenue and Melnea Cass Boulevard, known as Mass. and Cass.

Mayor Michelle Wu, House Ways and Means Chairman Aaron Michlewitz and state Rep. John Moran announced the funding proposal April 10, according to the City of Boston.

City officials said the money would support expanded recovery and halfway housing, additional addiction treatment specialists and diversion programs intended to move people into treatment and recovery services rather than deeper into the criminal justice system, according to the city. NBC10 Boston and CBS News Boston also reported the funding would be used for housing, treatment and related support services.

The proposal follows recommendations from a community working group representing the South End, Roxbury and Newmarket neighborhoods, city officials said.

Wu said the effort builds on progress the city says it has made in reducing outdoor drug use and improving conditions in the area, though the funding still must be approved by the state Senate before it can become part of the final budget, according to the city.