State infrastructure grants for roads, parking lots, and sewer and water lines will help Ashland, Ayer, and Natick spur economic development, according to local officials.

Last month, the state announced 26 grants through its MassWorks Infrastructure Program totaling $38 million. The figure includes $1.5 million for roadway improvements on a stretch of Kansas Street and its intersection with Route 27 in Natick; $365,000 for sewer and water work in Ashland; and $267,000 for a commuter-rail parking lot expansion in Ayer.