Pittsfield's Department of Community Development Launches Public Survey

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PITTSFIELD, Mass. — The City of Pittsfield's Department of Community Development has announced the availability of a survey to receive public input regarding community needs.
 
In collaboration with VHB, the Department has initiated a year-long planning process aimed at crafting a Master Plan that will guide the city's growth and change while preserving its unique character and reflecting shared community values. The updated Master Plan will serve as a key policy document for physical development, addressing critical areas such as land use, infrastructure and sustainability.
 
In addition to public meetings, the survey is a key part of the planning process. Responses will help the city understand community priorities, identify areas for improvement, and shape goals and strategies that reflect the collective vision of Pittsfield. The survey, and more information about the planning process, can be found on the city's website: 2025 Master Plan Update | Pittsfield, MA
 
For more information about this survey and related Master Plan work, email City Planner, Kevin Rayner at krayner@cityofpittsfield.org.
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Pittsfield Native Competing in Miss Massachusetts

By Brittany PolitoiBerkshires Staff

PITTSFIELD, Mass. — Taconic High graduate Neveah Williams is competing in the 2026 Miss Massachusetts Scholarship Competition this weekend in Worcester.

She said pageants have helped her step into her own self-confidence while helping others; her chosen community service initiative is the AYJ Fund of North Adams. 

"When I was younger, I had an issue with body image, and I thought I had to look a certain way. So, I joined pageants to try to help with my self-confidence, and I soon fell in love, and it helped me become a more well-rounded young woman," Williams said. 

"Along with it, it made me fall in love with myself and my body, no matter what I look like." 

The 2026 Miss Massachusetts Scholarship Competition is being held at the Hanover Theatre in Worcester on Friday, June 19, with finals on Saturday, June 20, at 7 each night.

Williams, holding the title of Miss Mayflower 2026, has continued her journey in pageants over the past four years and says she has truly come to learn so much about herself. 

"And have grown into, I believe, the best young woman I possibly could, because of the Miss America opportunity," she said.

A 2024 graduate of Taconic, she attends Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences in Boston, studying echocardiogram sonography. 

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