What’s New
The (New) Partnership Turns 2!
Join the North Adams Partnership as we celebrate another year of connecting the people, ideas, and resources that move North Adams forward. Raise a glass, meet new people, and hear about all we’ve accomplished and all that’s in store for 2027!
The Ashuwillticook Trail is Heading North
A new $64,000 state grant will help plan the next 9.3 miles, connecting Adams to North Adams and Williamstown. The project builds on a $17.3 million federal grant for planning and design, bringing us one step closer to a connected regional trail network.
North Adams Chamber Monthly Meetup
September's meetup will take place at the Harriman & West Airport with Hewison Aviation, the new flight school and airport management company. Join us for networking and community problem-solving while learning more about what's happening at the airport!
North Adams Creative District Pilot FAQ
North Adams just became Massachusetts' first Creative District pilot! Over the next three years, with funding from the Barr Foundation, a full-time Mass Development Fellow will work alongside local partners to turn our arts and culture strengths into real growth for downtown businesses and the creative economy.
Second Annual Hoosic River Run This Weekend
The Hoosic River Run is back for year two this Saturday, and this year, there’s a new way to run North Adams: a first-ever half marathon! The half-marathon, 5K, and mile routes showcase some of what makes North Adams special, from mountain views and the Hoosic River to MASS MoCA and downtown.
Greenagers Conduct Accessibility Assessment of UNO Park
On July 28, Greenagers summer program students visited UNO Park for an accessibility assessment, joined by faculty mentors, municipal staff, and community members. Participants identified potential tripping hazards, evaluated path widths and maneuverability, and spent time and thought considering what truly makes a space usable for people with disabilities.
Sign up for the 70th Annual Fall Foliage Parade!
The Northern Berkshire Fall Foliage Parade is celebrating its 70th anniversary on Sunday, October 4, 2026—and this year’s theme is 70 Years in Motion: Time Traveling Through North Berkshire. Community members, businesses, and organizations are invited to bring their favorite era, historic moment, or vision of the future to life through floats, costumes, vehicles, and more. Ready to join the adventure? Sign up to participate and help make this milestone parade one to remember! You can also share your ideas for the 2027 parade theme through a short community survey.
Help Shape a More Resilient Northern Berkshire
The communities of Adams, Lanesborough, North Adams, and Williamstown are looking for up to six paid, part-time Community Liaisons to help ensure local voices are part of regional climate resilience planning. No climate experience is required—we’re looking for people with strong community connections who want to help make sure everyone has a seat at the table.
Say Hello to Downtown’s Newest Businesses!
Downtown North Adams just keeps getting better! We’re excited to welcome some new businesses that add to a growing list of reasons to explore downtown. Whether you’re looking for an unforgettable meal or a one-of-a-kind handmade hat, be sure to stop in, say hello, and support the newest members of our downtown business community.
MassDevelopment, Barr Foundation Partner to Launch Creative District Pilot in North Adams
Three-Year Pilot Program Will Provide Dedicated Staff Capacity, Technical Assistance, Flexible Funding, Arts and Culture Planning, and Other Resources to Support Equitable Economic Growth
Students Bring Downtown North Adams to Life, One Reel at a Time
MCLA and the Williams College Center for Learning in Action are partnering with downtown North Adams businesses on collaborative Instagram posts and Reels that showcase local shops, restaurants, and services. The student-created content highlights walkable destinations near campus and bus stops, encouraging exploration while increasing visibility for small businesses.
UNO Park For All Kicks Off
The North Adams Partnership received a $15,000 AARP grant to revitalize UNO Park with age-friendly upgrades—safer paths, accessible seating, and better signage. McCann Technical School students and volunteers will lead the work, blending accessibility, sustainability, and hands-on learning. Construction begins this summer.
Volunteers Needed for Eagle Street Pocket Park Revitalization Project
Volunteers Needed for Eagle Street Pocket Park Revitalization Project—Let’s Build a GREENER North Adams!
Monday 7/13 + Tuesday 7/14 10am - 12pm at Windsor Mill
Wednesday 7/15 + Thursday 7/16 8am - 12pm @ Eagle Street Park
Northern Berkshire Business Meetup
The next Northern Berkshire Meetup will take place July 22 from 6–8 p.m. at Blue Vista Motor Lodge. Hosted by the North Adams Chamber of Commerce, this free monthly gathering welcomes business owners, entrepreneurs, artists, nonprofit and cultural workers, remote employees, and community members from across the Northern Berkshires. Attendees can connect informally, share updates and challenges, and build relationships across sectors.
Optimal Healing: A Whole-Person Approach to Wellness
Discover Optimal Healing in North Adams, where mental health care and holistic wellness come together. Founded by Ashley Benson, the center offers therapy, yoga, sauna, red light therapy, movement classes, and wellness services in a compassionate, community-focused environment dedicated to helping people heal, grow, and thrive at every stage of life.
DCR Seeks Public Input on Natural Bridge State Park Improvements
Learn about proposed improvements to Natural Bridge State Park in North Adams, Massachusetts, during a public meeting hosted via Zoom by the Department of Conservation and Recreation on July 8 at 6pm. Plans include accessibility upgrades, historic preservation work, enhanced visitor amenities, and new viewing areas. Public comments are welcome through July 22.
We’re a 2026 AARP Community Challenge Grantee!
The North Adams Partnership has been selected for a 2026 AARP Community Challenge grant to fund age-friendly and ADA-accessible upgrades to UNO Park, improving safety, accessibility, and outdoor recreation opportunities for older adults and residents with mobility challenges in North Adams.
New Businesses Are Opening in Downtown North Adams. Seriously.
Downtown North Adams is welcoming a wave of new businesses, from the highly anticipated Zio Roberto Ristorante and Taverna to the newly opened Cole Mountain Café and an exciting new restaurant taking shape in the former TD Bank building. Together with a forthcoming retail concept on Holden Street, these investments reflect growing momentum, entrepreneurial confidence, and a vibrant future for downtown.
Need One Thing to Grow? Microloan Program May Be the Answer
MassDevelopment’s revamped Microloan Program offers $5,000–$100,000 in flexible financing for Massachusetts small businesses. Funds can support equipment upgrades, hiring, working capital, and other catalytic investments that unlock growth. Ideal for businesses needing targeted, one-time improvements like ovens, lighting, or staffing to scale operations and strengthen long-term success.
Massachusetts Vacant Storefront Program (MVSP)
Thinking about opening a business in downtown North Adams? The Massachusetts Vacant Storefront Program offers eligible businesses up to $10,000 in refundable state tax credits for locating in qualifying vacant storefronts. Designed to support economic revitalization, the program helps fill empty downtown spaces, create jobs, and attract new investment. Scroll down to learn about eligibility requirements, application deadlines, and how to express interest in participating.