a new chapter for Pittsfield’s industrial landscape. TOURISM AND YEAR-ROUND APPEAL Pittsfield has strategically positioned itself as a fourseason destination through diverse tourism offerings. The city capitalizes on sports tourism by hosting high-profile events, with Marchetti noting,“last year, we hosted the girls state softball championships... It was great to have conversations with some of the families that were talking about staying in Pittsfield hotels and being here.” Historic Wahconah Park may further boost this sector with potential collegiate baseball revival plans. The city’s natural assets drive consistent ecotourism. The redeveloped Bousquet Ski Area by Mill Town Capital features new lodges and snowmaking capabilities, complementing access to state forests and lakes, while cultural institutions serve as equal economic pillars and key attractions. This multifaceted approach creates what the mayor describes as “a year-round location to visit manufacturing building located in Pittsfield, and have purchased three new printing presses. The city gave them a 10-year tax increment financing.” Additional programs like the Mayor’s Small Business Fund and E for All entrepreneurship initiative provide layered support. A unique asset is the GE Economic Development Fund, established after the company’s departure. “That was funding that GE transferred to the city, but they left that money for Pittsfield to use to help incentivize companies that are moving here or expanding here,” explains Coakley. This complements ongoing redevelopment of the 52-acre William Stanley Business Park, where Site 9’s transformation highlights the city’s commitment. “We raised through a number of different grants over $10 million, and we cracked and crushed all the concrete, put in a barrier layer, and then brought in over 100,000 cubic yards of clean fill … now it’s getting ready for development,” Coakley explains.The site now awaits commercial development, marking 176 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 06, ISSUE 08
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