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Pittsfield's tree-lighting ceremony will be virtual again this year. PCTV will be hosting the show.

Pittsfield & PCTV Team Up for Virtual Tree Lighting Ceremony

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PITTSFIELD, Mass. — Pittsfield Community Television has teamed up with Pittsfield's Recreation Program to air a Virtual 2021 Holiday Tree Lighting.
 
"The holiday tree lighting is one of our most beloved and memorable occasions in the city of Pittsfield. Traditionally, it's the time of the year when we all gather today and reflect on the beauty of the season. Though I'm disappointed that we won't be able to gather this year, the tree stands as a reminder of the many good things that are still around us.  It's my hope that each of us will find a way to recognize and cherish those special things in our lives," said Mayor Linda Tyer. "Thank you to all who dedicated their time, energy, and talents to make this an amazing event for our community."
 
PCTV will present the tree lighting at 6 p.m. on Friday, Dec. 3. The program will air on PCTV Access Pittsfield Channel 1301, PCTV Select, and the Pittsfield Community Television Facebook page. The program will also be simulcast on Lanesborough Community Television, Dalton Community Television, and Community Television of the Southern Berkshires. 
 
The show will feature the Berkshire Hills Chorus, Kids 4 Harmony, and the Eagles Band Brass Ensemble. Santa and Mrs. Claus will be making a special appearance.
 
The program will be rerun multiple times during the holiday season and available for viewing on-demand on PCTV's website, PittsfieldTV.org.
 
"PCTV is proud to help continue this wonderful tradition for our city," said PCTV Executive Director Shawn Serre. "For nearly three decades, our channels have broadcast this event live from Park Square for folks who weren't able to attend. This year, I'm happy to say, everyone will be able to share in the excitement from the safety and comfort of their homes,' he said.
 
This year, the tree is a 25-foot-tall white spruce donated by Bonnie and Lou Cummings of Pittsfield. The tree was installed by the city of Pittsfield's Parks and Highway Department.

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MassDOT Project Will Affect Traffic Near BMC

By Brittany PolitoiBerkshires Staff

PITTSFIELD, Mass. — Prepare for traffic impacts around Berkshire Medical Center through May for a state Department of Transportation project to improve situations and intersections on North Street and First Street.

Because of this, traffic will be reduced to one lane of travel on First Street (U.S. Route 7) and North Street between Burbank Street and Abbott Street from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m., Monday through Friday through at least May 6.

BMC and Medical Arts Complex parking areas remain open and detours may be in place at certain times. The city will provide additional updates on changes to traffic patterns in the area as construction progresses.

The project has been a few years in the making, with a public hearing dating back to 2021. It aims to increase safety for all modes of transportation and improve intersection operation.

It consists of intersection widening and signalization improvements at First and Tyler streets, the conversion of North Street between Tyler and Stoddard Avenue to serve one-way southbound traffic only, intersection improvements at Charles Street and North Street, intersection improvements at Springside Avenue and North Street, and the construction of a roundabout at the intersection of First Street, North Street, Stoddard Avenue, and the Berkshire Medical Center entrance.

Work also includes the construction of 5-foot bike lanes and 5-foot sidewalks with ADA-compliant curb ramps.  

Last year, the City Council approved multiple orders for the state project: five orders of takings for intersection and signal improvements at First Street and North Street. 

The total amount identified for permanent and temporary takings is $397,200, with $200,000 allocated by the council and the additional monies coming from carryover Chapter 90 funding. The state Transportation Improvement Plan is paying for the project and the city is responsible for 20 percent of the design cost and rights-of-way takings.

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