Downtown Pittsfield Ambassadors are officially on the streets of Downtown Pittsfield
Since July 1st pairs of friendly faces have been taking to the streets of downtown Pittsfield to be an approachable source of directions, information, and assistance for residents, visitors, business owners, and the general public during the summer. This year, thanks to the generous sponsorship of the program by the City of Pittsfield, Guardian Life Insurance Company of America, Lee Bank, and Pittsfield Garden Tour, Downtown Pittsfield, Inc.’s (DPI) Ambassadors will be on the streets at peak times for visitors, through Labor Day.
The Downtown Pittsfield Ambassador Program is a partnership between Downtown Pittsfield, Inc. and the Pittsfield Police Department. The program addresses increased visitor presence during the summer and helps to relieve the demand on police presence downtown. It is based on similar models implemented in other cities around the country. This year, the program will focus on downtown’s response to COVID-19 by providing masks to people that do not have them, picking up trash, and helping guide foot traffic to places to eat and shop.
This summer, there will be four Ambassadors; two returning: Melvin Wright and Amarie Starr, and two new: Alex Desrochers and Liam Tremlett.
Their job is twofold focusing on concierge service and safety. The ambassadors are walking concierges. They are a welcoming, information sharing resource helping visitors and residents find parking, offering directions and wayfinding, and providing information on dining and shopping.
The ambassadors are also trained and certified by the Pittsfield Police Department in CPR, AED, First Aid, and public safety protocol. Ambassadors observe street activity and, when needed, call for assistance via police radios, with which they are equipped.
Downtown Ambassadors walk in pairs along the downtown loop donning distinctive uniforms identifying them as official representatives of Pittsfield and greet everyone with a friendly hello.
The goal of the Downtown Pittsfield Ambassador Program is to create a welcoming downtown environment for all by delivering on DPI’s mission to maintain a clean, safe, and friendly district. Their primary focus will be on hospitality – giving directions and parking information, as well as information on things to do, places to eat, and where to shop. Ambassadors will also act as eyes and ears for public safety, social service partners, and public works by educating, assisting, and reporting on various needs and issues.
The mission of Downtown Pittsfield, Inc. is to foster the ongoing growth and vitality of downtown Pittsfield, Massachusetts through vision, leadership, and advocacy and to position downtown as the creative and business hub of the Berkshires for the benefit of all.
Since 1983, DPI has been the recognized leader, facilitator and principal advocate for downtown. DPI has developed strategies and programs, mobilizing resources resulting in a creative, lively, and sustainable environment.
DPI is a nonprofit membership organization consisting of property owners, businesses, residents, cultural and entertainment venues, restaurants and nonprofit organizations joining forces to increase economic activity by promoting downtown as a great place to live, work, and play. DPI works in partnership with the various city departments—which has led to major streetscape projects, parking improvements, marketing initiatives, and the Downtown Pittsfield Ambassador Program.
Pictured above (from left to right): Alex Desrochers, Liam Tremlett, Melvin Wright and Amarie Starr
Image below is from 2019.
