News & Updates

Issue 5: June 18, 2025

This month: We’re excited to be one of AARP’s ADU Design Challenge grant winners! Plus, need help with grant applications? We’ve got you covered.

North Adams Partnership Receives AARP Grant to Support ADU Design Challenge!

The North Adams Partnership has been awarded a competitive grant from AARP to launch an Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) Design Challenge aimed at addressing the city’s growing need for senior-friendly housing. With over 38% of residents aged 55 and older, the initiative invites students, designers, and builders to submit innovative, small-scale housing plans.

A resident-led committee will help guide the process and select three winning designs, which will be made available to the public free of charge. This project is a collaborative, community-driven effort to support aging in place and strengthen neighborhood connections.

Berkshire Funding Focus

Do you run a business or nonprofit and find the grant landscape intimidating? Don’t worry—Berkshire Funding Focus is here to help.

Berkshire Funding Focus helps nonprofits, schools, towns, and entrepreneurs in Berkshire County find and go after the funding they need to grow and thrive. Run by the Berkshire Regional Planning Commission, it offers an easy-to-use website with curated grant opportunities, regular trainings on grant writing and compliance, and personalized support.

With strong community partnerships, it’s all about building long-term capacity and making sure local groups have what they need to succeed.

Route 2 Overpass Study Community Info Session

If you are interested in learning more about the Route 2 Overpass Study, you still have an opportunity to learn more about the project, ask questions, and make your voice heard! The Northern Berkshire Community Coalition and the North Adams Partnership will co-host a community information session next Tuesday from 5:30–6:30pm at the North Adams Public Library.

Free and open to the public. No pre-registration required.

Belle Ame Lashes by Keke

Belle Ame Lashes by Keke has officially opened at 14 Eagle Street in North Adams in the former Klipper Kingz space. Owner and esthetician Kathryn Boucher offers face waxing, eyebrow services, and eyelash extensions. The space holds special meaning—it once housed her grandfather’s Norm’s Barber Shop, where she fondly remembers getting Dum-Dum lollipops.

Named in honor of her late daughter Kiera “Keke” Boucher, the salon is a heartfelt tribute and a fresh start, blending family legacy with beauty and community.

Hoosic River Revival 5K

Enjoy our beautiful river by participating in the Hoosic River Revival’s first-ever Run / Walk this Saturday, June 21st!

Registration opens at 7am and start time is 8am.

The course is a mixed terrain out and back that will go through the MASS MoCA campus, Heritage State Park, and along the south branch of the Hoosic River. 

Proceeds from this event will go to the ongoing work of HRR to repair the flood chutes and to improve recreation opportunities along the river. 

Share your updates!

If you have an update about a development project in North Adams or you are involved with an initiative helping to grow North Adams, we’d love to share it in our next monthly newsletter! Submit by clicking on the button below.