Governor Announces Free Parking at State Parks, Beaches This Weekend

10:24AM / Friday, July 03, 2026Print Story | Email Story

BOSTON — Governor Maura Healey today announced that parking will be free at all Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR) properties statewide in recognition?of?the 250th anniversary of the American Revolution from July 3 to 5.

"We want people to enjoy the Fourth of July weekend, especially as we celebrate the 250th anniversary of our nation’s founding," said Governor Healey. "In recognition of that, we're making parking at all of our state properties free this weekend."

DCR will implement the waiver across its paid parking system, including the Yodel app, pay stations and field staff parking operations. Parking is first come, first served. High-demand locations may still close when parking lots reach capacity. Residents and visitors are encouraged to plan ahead by visiting the DCR Park Alerts webpage for the most up-to-date information on facility closures.

"The Fourth of July is DCR's busiest weekend of the year, when families, friends and neighbors from across Massachusetts and beyond come together to celebrate America's birthday in our parks and beaches," said DCR Commissioner Nicole LaChapelle. "By waiving parking fees, we're making it easier for more people to enjoy the outdoors and celebrate in the places that belong to all of us. As we mark the 250th anniversary of our nation, we look forward to welcoming visitors to our properties across the state, and we encourage everyone to plan ahead and enjoy the time outdoors."

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Pittsfield Committee Recommends Scanlon for City Audit

By Brittany PolitoiBerkshires.com
11:59AM / Sunday, August 02, 2026

PITTSFIELD, Mass.— After the bid for a new auditing company came back more than 30 percent higher, Pittsfield will stick with Scanlon and Associates.

On Tuesday, the Auditing Services Evaluation Committee voted, 4-2, to advance Scanlon to the City Council for an independent audit. CliftonLarsonAllen also responded to the bid, but came in costing $120,000 more.

“I have to go with saving money for the city. I mean, the discrepancy is too much of a difference,” committee member Karen Kalinowsky said.

“The city could have used for that difference over the next three years.”

This process was prompted by Rule 40 of the council rules and the City Charter, where in any year the City Council votes to hold a procurement process for an independent certified public accountant or firm to audit Pittsfield's books and accounts, the city must, through its Finance Committee with the assistance of the purchasing department, solicit requests for proposals or invitations for bids before June 1.

The council in March recommended that the purchasing agent draft a request for proposals and put it out to bid.

Ward 1 Councilor Kenneth Warren, who has vocally supported the independent audit for years, said the city doesn’t have to follow a bidding process for the professional service, “We are doing this so the public knows that we're being professional and are looking for other options, looking at what the best options are, and comparing them based on what they can offer and what the cost is.”

Board member Kathy Amuso said both CLA and Scanlon have comparable reviews with high recommendations. Especially considering the budget crisis Pittsfield is in, she moved to recommend Scanlon to the full council.

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