image description

Chipotle Opens in Pittsfield

By Brittany PolitoPrint Story | Email Story

PITTSFIELD, Mass.-

There is a new taco in town.

Chipotle Mexican Grill opened in Taco Bell's former location in Berkshire Crossing on Thursday. To mark the occasion, the first 50 people in line received merchandise from the chain restaurant.

Shortly after its doors opened, the eatery was buzzing with customers.

"We have received great feedback from other Chipotle locations surrounding the area and think Pittsfield’s burrito fan would be thrilled to have their own Chipotle location," Spokesperson Sally Evans said.

Along with a modern renovation of the building, there is a "Chipotlane" drive-thru lane that allows customers to retrieve digital orders from their cars.

There is now a variety of Mexican-inspired choices in the area, as Taco Bell built a new location across the street on Dalton Avenue.


About a year ago, the Conservation Commission approved a notice of intent from Chipotle for the proposed redevelopment of the former Taco Bell that was built in the 1980s.

It was reported that the site would remain "relatively unchanged" with aesthetic changes but no alternation in square footage and some infrastructure improvements were proposed.

Chipotle is a fast, casual dining eatery that specializes in bowls, tacos, burritos, and salads made in front of the customer. The chain prides itself on using no artificial flavors, colors, or preservatives and serving fresh food.

The location is still hiring and plans to employ around 25 people.  Benefits include a debt-free college degree program, access to healthcare, and vacation and sick time.

It is open every day from 10:45 a.m to 10 p.m.


Tags: Berkshire Crossing,   Chipotle,   

If you would like to contribute information on this article, contact us at info@iberkshires.com.

Pittsfield Police Chief Retiring in January

By Brittany PolitoiBerkshires Staff

PITTSFIELD, Mass. — Police Chief Thomas Dawley will retire next month after 24 years with the Pittsfield Police Department, and the mayor will appoint his successor. 

Dawley's last day will be on Jan. 9, and he told iBerkshires that it was "just time." He began his law enforcement career in 1995 at the Berkshire County House of Corrections and was appointed police chief in June 2024

"Reasons for leaving are cumulative. I have been in law enforcement for almost 30 years. There is no particular reason for my retirement, I just feel that it is time," he wrote in an email. 

"I love the profession and love this department. The duties, responsibilities and obligations as a Chief are very demanding. It is a lifestyle, not a job. It is a 24/7–365 days a year responsibility." 

According to The Berkshire Eagle, Dawley told Mayor Peter Marchetti of his intention to retire back in April but had kept the decision quiet. Marchetti is expected to choose his successor in the next couple of weeks. 

Dawley, 52, was "honored and humbled" when he was chosen two years ago to succeed Michael Wynn, he said, and he misses being an officer out in the community, as the role of chief is more administrative by nature. He described the officers and civilian staff at the department as "the best of the best" and is proud of the "second to none" dedication, professionalism, and commitment they bring to work every day. 

"Policing is different than it was 10-20 years ago and the profession is being tested daily," he noted. 

"I want a new challenge and preferably something that does not involve law enforcement, but I am definitely not ruling it out!" 

View Full Story

More Pittsfield Stories