Pittsfield Announces Phase Three of Spring Hydrant Flushing Schedule

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PITTSFIELD, Mass.— The City of Pittsfield's water system will begin phase three of its spring flushing schedule on Monday, May 5.

Water mains will be flushed Monday through Friday each week, excluding holidays, between 7:30 a.m. and 3 p.m. This phase is anticipated to last from May 5 to May 9.

On Monday only, early morning flushing will also occur from 1:00 a.m. to 6:00 a.m. The affected area includes South Street from the intersection of South Street and East Housatonic Street to Park Square; North Street from Park Square to Wahconah Street; and Wahconah Street from North Street to Charles Street.

Flushing is expected to affect the following areas:

  • Various locations along Park, King, and Onota streets near Von Nida Street, Walnut Street, Fort Hill Avenue, South Street, and Velma Avenue.
  • All of West Housatonic Street from South Street to Callahan Drive and all adjacent neighborhood streets, including Boylston Street, Cadwell Road, and Lebanon and Cole avenues.
  • West Street from Park Square to Fort Hill Avenue and all connecting neighborhood streets.
  • Several locations along Center Street, Valentine Road, Pecks Road, Thomas Island, Upper North and outer Wahconah streets, Lakeway Drive, and Linden Street.
  • Hancock Road starting at the North Street intersection, encompassing the Highland and Ridge Avenue neighborhoods.

The city's Office of the Mayor stated that while flushing may cause temporary discolored water and reduced water pressure in the immediate vicinity of the flushing, measures will be taken to maintain proper treatment and disinfection levels within the water system. Residents who experience discolored water are advised to run their water for a short time until it clears before using it.

Residents experiencing persistent discolored water or low pressure are asked to contact the Water Department at (413) 499-9339.

The city noted that flushing is a standard operational procedure that plays a key role in maintaining water quality within the distribution system and expressed gratitude for residents' patience during this process.

 


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BRPC Votes in New Director, Bids Farewell to Matuszko

By Breanna SteeleiBerkshires Staff

PITTSFIELD, Mass. — The BRPC board voted Thursday to make Laura Brennan its next executive director.

Brennan is the economic development program manager for the Berkshire Regional Planning Commission. She has been in the role since July 2023 but has been with BRPC since 2017, first serving as the senior planner of economic development. 

She earned her bachelor's degree from Franklin & Marshall College in Pennsylvania and earned a graduate-level certificate in local government leadership and management from Suffolk University.

Brennan was the preferred candidate the Executive Search Committee, which voted last week to present her and candidate Jason Zogg to the full committee. 

Board members congratulated Brennan, who was in attendance, with Chair Douglas McNally saying they have her back.

The commission voted to create a three-person negotiation subcommittee with executive committee members Malcolm Fick, Buck Donovan, and Sam Haupt. They will negotiate benefits, compensation, and terms of employment.

Brennan will be taking over for retiring Executive Director Thomas Matuszko. Matuszko was appointed as executive director in 2018, having previously been a principal planner from 1997 to 2000 and then assistant director from 2001. The new director will be the fourth in nearly 60 years.

Matuszko gave his last executive director report, amending the bylaws and changing the wordage to be more inclusive among other notes.

McNally said he was grateful that he made sure to do that before his leave.

Since it was Matuszko's last meeting those in attendance thanked him for his time at the BRPC.

"I had to just say you have had a huge positive impact on the Berkshires and thank you," said McNally.

"Thanks for my internship, Tom, 20-plus years ago, and everything you've done for Berkshire County," said Sarif and Matuszko said he was happy to still see her here after this long.

"I think Laura has learned a lot from you, and so she'll just be able to carry on. And so tonight is a great night for Berkshire County," said Christine Rasmussen.

"It's really, it's been a great ride, and I've enjoyed it almost all the time," said Matuszko. "There have been only very few times that hasn't been extremely enjoyable and satisfying. So I mostly appreciate the support that you all have given me and delegates and alternates over the years have given me and provide our staff."

He urged them to have the same relationship with Brennan, and provide her the help and support to be successful. 

"Thank you for all you've provided me with an opportunity, a great opportunity. I couldn't have asked for a better career."

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