MCLA Named A Best Value For Public Colleges

NORTH ADAMS, Mass. — Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts has been named to Kiplinger’s Personal Finance’s list of 100 best values in public colleges for 2015. The ranking cites four-year schools that combine outstanding academics with affordable cost.

MCLA was one of two four-year public institutions in Massachusetts to make the list. Kiplinger’s selected the top 100 public colleges and universities, private colleges and universities, and private liberal arts colleges from some 1,200 institutions.

“This recognition confirms the quality along with affordability that MCLA offers as the public liberal arts college of the commonwealth," MCLA Admissions Director Gina Puc said. "As students explore their college options for the upcoming admission cycle, this news will advance the word that MCLA is an attractive option for applicants to consider.”

“We salute this year’s top schools,” said Janet Bodnar, editor of Kiplinger’s Personal Finance magazine. “Balancing top-quality education with affordable cost is a challenge for families in today’s economy, which is why Kiplinger’s rankings are such a valuable resource. The schools on the 2015 list offer students the best of both worlds.”

Brown Street Bridge Reopens in North Adams

By Jack GuerinoiBerkshires Staff
01:16PM / Monday, December 15, 2025

Mayor Jennifer Macksey is the first to drive across the bridge, closed since early 2023.

NORTH ADAMS, Mass. — Mayor Jennifer Macksey led a ribbon-cutting ceremony on Monday, Dec. 15, marking the official reopening of the Brown Street Bridge.

 

"We are very excited despite the cold weather," Macksey said before the ribbon-cutting. "… We are chipping away at these projects, but this is long overdue."

 

The bridge had been closed to all vehicle traffic since March 2023 after being deemed structurally deficient by the state Department of Transportation (MassDOT). The 26-foot steel structure, built in 1952, was flagged after its superstructure rating fell to 3.

 

The reopening follows a temporary repair project designed to safely restore access while the city and state determine a long-term plan. The temporary repair contract was awarded to J.H. Maxymillian at a cost of $349,920.

 

Funding for the project included $75,000 from state Chapter 90 road funds, with the balance was covered by state flood money the city had been previously awarded following a severe storm in July several years ago.

 

The mayor emphasized the critical need to reopen the span, particularly for public safety. 

 

"The perception behind that was we have flooding on West Main Street and River Street, we have to use this bridge," she said. "We are very excited to have it open. Not only to alleviate traffic problems down at the intersection of Big Y and the intersection of City Hall, but to help our friends at emergency management with the ambulance."