Letter: Open Letter to Mayor Macksey on Notchview Logging

To the Editor:

Dear Mayor Jennifer Macksey,

Almost two months ago I learned about the logging project that was going to use cancer-causing chemicals near our drinking water supply. Hearing this news terrified me as I lost my father to cancer. At the Sept. 12 meeting, we were told chemicals would not be used; however, when we questioned about future use during this 10-year plan, Mass Audubon and NEFF would not give us a definite answer. Management and operation plans are two different things; they can come back at any point during the next 10 years and use chemicals.

Even after your public apology, you still have not reached out to answer my questions so I will address them here in hopes they will finally be answered.

1. The original plan called for the use of chemicals, for two years you knew this yet stayed quiet. Why? You stood in front of your residents sharing a proclamation of September with Childhood Cancer Awareness Month. This took place right before our meeting, so again, how can you be OK with this plan?

Michaela Lapointe
North Adams, Mass. 

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."