1Berkshire Accepting Applications for New "Insert Here" Vacant Window Art Installation Pilot

Print Story | Email Story
PITTSFIELD, Mass. — 1Berkshire, thanks to a one-time grant award, announced the launch of applications for a new pilot program to support the installation of printed vinyl artwork in vacant downtown buildings in Berkshire communities. 
 
This program aims to provide up to three municipalities/organizations with sub-award grants of up to $5,000 in order to support them in the selection, commissioning, and installation of printed works of art in vacant downtown storefronts for the summer of 2023. This effort is meant to both contribute to the aesthetic beauty of downtown business districts, while also drawing attention to the opportunities that these vacant spaces offer to potential new small businesses and organizations looking for a physical location to move into. 
 
Only one grant will be awarded to implement this effort in any given municipality. Applicants may be municipalities themselves, non-profit organizations, for-profit organizations, or non-organization individuals with a proven track record of similar project execution. Applications are open now and will close on March 3rd, 2023. Selected applicants must complete all related work by June 30, 2023. 
 
"We are excited to pilot this program here in the region as a way to both contribute to the quality of experience in our downtowns, and to really help create organic connections between emerging small businesses and commercial landlords with available space," Benjamin Lamb, 1Berkshire Director of Economic Development said. "This could be a great case study about leveraging our intrinsic creative spirit in the Berkshires and how that can also directly drive new economic opportunities across a spectrum of business types." 
 
To learn more and apply, visit: https://forms.gle/PaGryhVE3TM37sP38

Tags: 1Berkshire,   

If you would like to contribute information on this article, contact us at info@iberkshires.com.

Pittsfield Man Pleads Guilty to 2025 Assault, Firearm Charges

Staff ReportsiBerkshires

PITTSFIELD, Mass. — A city man is facing up to nine years in prison after pleading guilty to multiple assault and firearm charges from last year. 

The Berkshire District Attorney's Office has reported that on Thursday, Oct. 15, Jarvis L. Chadwell Jr., 20, pleaded guilty to 10 charges and was sentenced to 7 to 9 years in state prison following an incident on Oct. 18, 2025.

Police say that he fired a gun multiple times in a vehicle over an argument, striking the car and nearby home.  

"This incident was not just alarming because there was gun violence, but also because it occurred in such close proximity to a school. I will not waver on my stance towards gun violence in our community — gun violence must be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law," District Attorney Timothy Shugrue said. 

"While I am committed to supporting those who need our help with recovery options and courts of hope, we must also protect our children and communities from the threat of violence that can claim lives in an instant. I commend the Pittsfield Police for their response and dedication to quickly solving this crime."

This occurred near Morningside Community School, which was retired at the end of the last academic year. 

Charges: 

  • armed assault with intent to murder
  • attempted assault & battery by discharging a firearm
  • witness intimidation
  • malicious destruction of property
  • resisting arrest
  • assault and battery on a police officer
  • illegal possession of a firearm
  • illegal possession of a large capacity feeding device
  • possession of ammunition without a firearm identification card 
  • possession of a firearm during the commission of a felony

Probation conditions include a mental health evaluation and aftercare; sign any releases required by probation; and refrain from abuse of the named victim, including threats of violence.

Pittsfield Police responded to a ShotSpotter activation at 65 Cherry St. just before 1 a.m. on that day in 2025. Upon arrival, police say witnesses confirmed hearing a gunshot and observing a man fleeing the area.

"While outside the 65 Cherry Street residence, officers observed a vehicle parked near the neighboring residence with a bullet hole in the windshield and an additional bullet hole in the side of 67 Cherry Street. Based on witness descriptions at the scene, law enforcement was able to quickly locate the Defendant within 30 minutes of the incident," a press release from the DA reads. 

View Full Story

More Pittsfield Stories