“Pittsfield is a pretty well-rounded community that has something for everyone,” says Mayor Peter Marchetti, highlighting its parks, lakes, and cultural venues like the Colonial Theater and Barrington Stage. The city’s revitalization efforts are equally robust, with a sharp focus on downtown development, strategic business incentives, and critical infrastructure upgrades. From the reimagined William Stanley Business Park to a surge in housing projects, Pittsfield is addressing modern challenges while preserving its small-town charm. At the core of this progress is collaboration, between city leaders, nonprofits, and private investors, ensuring that growth benefits all residents. For businesses and families alike, Pittsfield is proving to be a community with both vision and momentum. LIFESTYLE AND COMMUNITY ASSETS Pittsfield’s quality of life is anchored by its abundant green spaces and year-round recreational opportunities.“Everybody in the city is no more than half a mile from a city park,” explains Community Development Director Justine Dodds, underscoring the accessibility of the municipality’s vast park system. Cultural assets further distinguish Pittsfield as a regional destination. The Colonial Theater, Barrington Stage Company, and local museums serve as economic drivers while enriching community life. A network of nonprofits amplifies these efforts. Organizations like 18 Degrees and BBEC, bolstered by ARPA funding, provide essential services.“There was a lot of ARPA dollars spent on organizations to help them build capacity,” says Marchetti, highlighting their role in fostering resilience. DOWNTOWN REVITALIZATION Pittsfield’s downtown serves as the vibrant core of its economic resurgence, guided by an ongoing master plan update that prioritizes strategic growth. “Downtown has been the focus of our efforts over the last three years,” explains Dodds, referencing the city’s Transformative Development Initiative (TDI). 173 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 06, ISSUE 08 PITTSFIELD, MA
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