Our speaker last week was Kristine Hurley, Managing Director of Downtown Pittsfield Inc. Kristine is a Pittsfield native who returned to the area five years ago. Downtown Pittsfield, Inc.is an association of businesses, downtown property owners, residents, cultural and non-profit organizations joining forces to increase economic activity through promoting downtown as a great place to do business, obtain professional services, shop, dine, work, live, attend events, and enjoy recreational activities. Downtown Pittsfield Inc was started as a grassroots organization 30 years ago to support downtown businesses and their employees. They continue that mission today by advocating for businesses by taking reports of issues that need resolution, through their website, social promotions and publishing the Downtown Pittsfield Guide. They also have a division focusing on arts & culture that incudes promotions and activities such as the 1st Friday Artwalks and the annual ethnic fair. Kristine told us they are currently working on their five year strategic plan focusing on areas such as public safety, quantity and diversity of foot traffic and promoting the positive aspects of our downtown.
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