To the Editor:

For too long, Western Massachusetts has been treated as an afterthought in statewide transportation decisions. The 1st Berkshire District needs a state representative who understands that reliable transportation and infrastructure are essential to economic growth, public safety, tourism, healthcare access, and quality of life.

As a small-business owner, downtown property owner, and former airport commissioner, I know that transportation investments determine whether communities grow or fall behind. Our region needs leadership focused on delivering results, not political theater.

I support expanding passenger rail to reconnect the Berkshires with Boston, while investing in safe roads, reliable bridges, public transit, walkable communities, bicycle infrastructure, and electric vehicle charging. Rural communities also deserve transportation funding that reflects the true cost of maintaining our roads and infrastructure.

I will support expanding the Ashuwillticook Rail Trail into North Adams and Williamstown, strengthening Berkshire Regional Transit Authority service, modernizing bridges and culverts, improving freight and passenger rail, and pursuing every available state and federal infrastructure funding opportunity. Together, we can build a transportation system that keeps the Berkshires connected and competitive.

Andrew Fitch
North Adams, Mass. 

Candidate for state representative
of the 1st Berkshire District