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The Jones Block is envisioned by town officials as a cornerstone to downtown revitalization.

Work Resumes On Adams' Jones Block

By Andy McKeeveriBerkshires Staff
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Photos courtesy of Polonia Restoration.
Recent work has included insulation, planning and inspections.
ADAMS, Mass. — Work on the Jones Block has resumed after town officials recently voiced concern over its progress.

According to Director of Community Development Donna Cesan, the developer sent an email to the town outlining a schedule for future work.

The outline, which is expected to be updated in two weeks, calls for the upstairs apartment to be completed by the end of May and the entire building to be renovated by the end of the year.

"He's really focused on trying to finish it up," Cesan said on Friday. "We conveyed to him a number of times that we want him to finish it."

Town officials were concerned with the project because work had stopped and the town was losing contact with developer Gerry Sanchez, president of Polonia Restoration.

Two years ago, the town used a $1 million grant for exterior work on the Park Street building, envisioning the historic building would be vital to its downtown revitalization plans — leaving some with a fear that the investment had gone to waste.

However, the Monday email has changed things in Town Hall. Cesan said the delays were caused partially in regard to finances. The local bank the developer was using had new personnel working on the project, she said, and they were sorting out finances with him.

"I've heard there has been a lot of talk with the bank," Cesan said.

In Monday's email to the town, Sanchez said he was scheduled to meet with the town building inspector to approve insulation and a vapor barrier so wallboard could be installed in the apartment.

He also outlined a series of interior work that has been completed since the last time he met with town officials. Sanchez was in a conference on Friday and could not elaborate on the work.

The completed work includes plumbing, insulation and vapor barriers in all of the first floor and preparation for the completion of the apartment.

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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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