Pittsfield YMCA receives funding to modernize, expand; Kosiorek new CIP Berkshire director; Straus joins Berkshire Music School board

Pittsfield YMCA receives funding to modernize and expand child care services

February 21, 2022 : The Berkshire Edge, by Amy Krzanik

PITTSFIELD — MassDevelopment has partnered with Lee Bank, Adams Community Bank, and Greylock Federal Credit Union to provide $6.5 million in loan financing to the Berkshire Family YMCA, which is using proceeds to renovate and expand its main facility at 292 North St. in Pittsfield. Constructed in 1909, the historic building’s last major renovation took place in 1981. As part of this new renovation, Berkshire Family YMCA is building an accessible indoor track for exercise and rehabilitation purposes for use by people of all abilities, adding a youth basketball court, and upgrading its fitness center. The organization is also creating newly configured program spaces and updating restrooms, improvements that will increase capacity of its nationally accredited child development program to serve an additional 25 infants, toddlers, and preschoolers. MassDevelopment provided a $5 million loan, with Adams Community Bank, Greylock, and Lee Bank each providing $500,000 loans. The project is also supported by a $1 million Massachusetts Early Education and Out of School Time (EEOST) grant.

“Expanding early education is essential; as we know, a lack of reliable childcare negatively impacts familial, economic stability,” said Berkshire Family YMCA CEO and Executive Director Jessica Rumlow. “There is strong demand for childcare in Berkshire County, and each year we have long waiting lists.”

MassDevelopment, the state’s development finance agency and land bank, works with businesses, nonprofits, banks, and communities to stimulate economic growth across the Commonwealth. During FY2021, MassDevelopment financed or managed 416 projects generating investment of more than $1.86 billion in the Massachusetts economy. These projects are estimated to create or support 6,578 jobs and build or preserve 1,909 housing units.