The Garden Sets Up Shop in North Adams
NORTH ADAMS, Mass. — A classic Berkshire County business has opened a new branch in North County.
The Garden, a 20-year-old skateboard shop on North Street in Pittsfield, opened a space on Eagle Street in mid-June in the former Mia's Exchange.
Owner Bill Whittaker said opening a store in North Adams was a no-brainer.
"We just kind of saw an opportunity with the growth of" the city, particularly with the skatepark," he said. "We liked what we saw … with other businesses and restaurants coming in here, and it was pretty much not a huge investment … rent is pretty cheap."
Business has been steady, though Whittaker said he is still trying to get the word out. The Garden sells skateboards and skateboard equipment, including decks and wheels. It also sell apparel, like hats, sweat shirts, pants, and shoes, and other accessories.
Whittaker said that the sport of skateboarding is growing at a rapid pace, especially with women.
"I've never seen anything like it before with women," he said. "It's great."
"There's really good energy around" skateboarding now, Whittaker continued. He attributed this to the Olympics, as well as cabin fever built up around COVID-based lockdowns. People want to get back into outdoor activities, he said.
To build on that enthusiasm, The Garden has sponsored free women's skate clinics at the North Adams skatepark, where "everybody is welcome for whatever ability level." These events have been largely impromptu and have offered women the chance to learn new skills without the "intimidation" that men can inadvertently bring to bear, he said.
Whittaker told iBerkshires that he is looking forward to working with the city to promote his own business and others in the city.
"Everybody wants to work together and do fun things," Whittaker said regarding local businesses. He said The Garden will look for other events to participate in, including the First Friday events in downtown.
The Garden will be seasonal in North Adams, likely closing shop sometime after Black Friday. At that point, it will sell snowboards and ski equipment at Bosquet's new lodge in Pittsfield. The store is open Wednesday through Sunday, 10 to 6 and Sunday from 11 to 4. The website is www.gardenma.com.
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