Two Adams Buildings Awaiting Demolition

By Andy McKeeveriBerkshires Staff
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An apartment building on Commercial Street was ordered to be destroyed. Owner Susan Elbaum was ordered to have a contractor in place to plan the removal by May 11.
ADAMS, Mass — Two buildings with collapsed roofs are awaiting demolition.

The two properties that partially collapsed on the same January weekend are slated to be demolished in the upcoming weeks.

An apartment building at 137 Commercial S. owned by Susan Elbaum and a six-to-eight bay garage on Kearns Lane owned by John Swistak were ordered to be torn down by Code Enforcement Officer Scott Koczela.

Last Wednesday Koczela told the Board of Health that Elbaum was ordered to remove the structure but has yet to take steps toward it.


A contractor is ordered to be in place to plan the demolition by May 11 or else the town will be going back to court to force the demolition.

As for the Kearns Lane building, Swistak has informed Koczela that it will be removed in the next few weeks.

Both building's roofs collapsed under the weight of snow in January. The Commercial Street structure was condemned for being structurally unsound after the collapse forced residents on the first floor to find alternative housing. A few days later, a neighbor of the Kearns Street structure – that was used for storage – reported a partial roof collapse. There were no injuries in either incident.
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Friday Front Porch Feature: A Charming Home in Adams

By Breanna SteeleiBerkshires Staff

ADAMS, Mass. — Are you looking for a charming and inviting home? Then this is the one for you.

Our Friday Front Porch is a weekly feature spotlighting attractive homes for sale in Berkshire County. This week, we are showcasing 125 Friend St.

This newly renovated 1960 home has three bedrooms and one bathroom. It is 1,239 square feet on a 1 1/2 acre lot.

The house includes a basement level two-car garage, an eat-in kitchen and a sunroom perfect for all seasons. The house recently got new paint, new carpets, and a new 200-amp electrical service.

It is on the market for $349,000.

We spoke with Stephanie Rapisarda from William Pitt Sotheby’s International Realty, which holds the listing.

What do you think makes this house stand out in the current market?

It offers something difficult to find: a home that has been lovingly maintained by the same family for over six decades and is now being offered for the first time. Combined with its spacious 1.49 acre lot, beautifully renovated bathroom, and versatile four-season sunroom, this home presents a rare opportunity for buyers seeking both comfort and long-term value.

Do you know any unique stories about this home or its history?

Oh so many! My grandfather built the home. He and my grandmother raised their family there and when their kids had children, it remained a special haven for our entire family. My grandfather started his company CTC Inc. in the basement of the home, and his son still owns and operates the business today, now on a much larger scale.

The home's foundation is truly one of love. The pride of ownership is evident throughout the home, from its careful maintenance to the thoughtful updates that have preserved its character while enhancing everyday living. 

How would you describe the feel or atmosphere of this home?

Warm, welcoming, and easy to live in. The home has a comfortable Berkshire feel, with bright living spaces, a practical layout, and a peaceful setting that makes it easy to relax and unwind. The four-season sunroom, back porch and beautiful yard create a wonderful connection to the outdoors throughout the year while still being right in town.

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