PITTSFIELD, Mass. — The City of Pittsfield, in partnership with the Commission on Disabilities and a local community advocate, Brian Fitzpatrick, announces a community downtown walk to raise awareness of disabilities.

 

This downtown walk is scheduled for Thursday, July 10 at 3:00 p.m. starting at City Hall, located at 70 Allen Street in Pittsfield. The walk will travel from City Hall, through Dunham Mall and head towards St. Joseph's Church with a return to City Hall. This walk is expected to take one hour.

 

"I am thankful for opportunities to join members of the Commission on Disabilities, the Mayor and other community members to identify areas of that present challenges and areas that we want to replicate because they provide safe and secure passage for all modes of transportation," said Brian Fitzpatrick, assistant planner and coordinator of this awareness walk. 

 

"It is important for the city to understand the challenges of people with disabilities and find ways to make their travels within our downtown easier," said Catherine Carchedi, chair of the city's Commission on Disabilities.

 

This walk takes place following a proclamation issued by Mayor Peter Marchetti recognizing the 35th Anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) that was signed on July 26, 1990.

 

The proclamation will be presented at the Commission on Disaibilities meeting that is scheduled for July 10 at 2:00 p.m. at City Hall in Room 203.

 

"The ADA is a critical piece of legislation that has expanded opportunities for people with disabilities by reducing barriers, changing perceptions and increasing opportunities for full participation and inclusion in community life," said Mayor Peter Marchetti. "I look forward to being a part of this awareness walk and discovering ways Pittsfield may make improvements within our downtown to accommodate all needs."