West Stockbridge Residents Urged to take Municipal Broadband Survey

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WEST STOCKBRIDGE, Mass.— The Berkshire Regional Planning Commission (BRPC) has issued a call to all residents of West Stockbridge, Massachusetts, urging them to complete the Municipal Broadband Institute's (MBI) survey form.
 
This effort is aimed at bolstering the town's eligibility to apply for grant funding, specifically designated to enhance internet accessibility and speed throughout West Stockbridge.
 
Complete the survey by clicking on this link.
 
By actively participating in the survey, residents can contribute to identifying unserved and underserved areas within the town. The MBI has implemented a BEAD Challenge Process, utilizing this data to pinpoint locations that lack adequate high-speed fiber connectivity. These identified areas will then be considered for funding, aiming to bridge the digital divide and improve internet infrastructure.
 
Residents are encouraged to complete the survey by accessing the provided link. To read more information on the BEAD Challenge Process please click this link: BEAD Challenge Process
 
If you would like to contribute information on this article, contact us at info@iberkshires.com.

Lt. Governor Driscoll Visits Great Barrington Businesses

By Brittany PolitoiBerkshires Staff

Lt. Gov. Kim Driscoll, Housing Secretary Ed Augustus and state Rep. Leigh Davis are ready to chop wood out back of Pleasant and Main. 

GREAT BARRINGTON, Mass. — Lt. Gov. Kim Driscoll did some holiday shopping on Main Street last week after announcing millions of federal Community Development Block Grant funds

She was glad to see an array of small-business owners thriving, and the eclectic items that Great Barrington has to offer. 

"We know that the vibrancy of communities can often be defined by what's happening on Main Street," she said. 

"It's great to be here in Great Barrington and see so many independent entrepreneurs who are running really, not only fun, but businesses that are doing well, and we want to try and find ways to uplift and support that work moving forward." 

State Rep. Leigh Davis coordinated a business tour with Pleasant and Main Cafe and General Store, Robbie's Community Market, and Butternut Ski Mountain. While downtown, Driscoll also stopped at Robin's Candy and Rob's Records and Audio. 

Earlier that day, the Healey-Driscoll administration announced $33.5 million in federal CDBG funds at the Housatonic Community Center. Great Barrington, in conjunction with Egremont and Stockbridge, has been allocated $ 1.25 million to rehabilitate approximately 14 housing units.  A new Rural and Small Town Housing Choice Community designation for its Housing Choice Initiative was also launched. 

Davis emphasized the significance of the state announcing these dollars in the small village of Housatonic.  

Craig Bero, founder of Pleasant and Main, prepared desserts and hors d'oeuvres for the group at his cozy cafe across the street from the Housatonic Community Center. Bero opened more than a decade ago after migrating from New York City, and Pleasant and Main offers sustainable, organic meals for an affordable price while enjoying the museum of antiques that is the restaurant. 

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