Mass. Gen. Laws ch. 82, § 13

If a highway is not finally laid out, relocated, altered, discontinued or maintenance discontinued, or if specific repairs are not ordered, the expenses of the proceedings shall be paid by the persons who have recognized therefor. If they refuse or neglect, when required by the commissioners, to pay such expenses, such expenses or costs shall be paid by the county; and thereupon the commissioners may collect the same from the persons who so recognized, as provided by section eighteen of chapter thirty-four.