The New Pittsfield?

OK, we're back from vacation, where we skipped everything and anything that had to do with Fitchburg. From a quick look at the comments, looks like Ted DeSalvatore was still in the news. Go figure.

Anyway, we'll come back from break with this story about city officials visiting Pittsfield. Once upon a time -- 10 years ago, really -- Pittsfield was a ghost town. It was probably in worse shape that Fitchburg is currently. However, the city is on something of a revival. Fitchburg officials went to check it out to see what they could transfer to our own fair burg.

From the Sentinel story, it looks like Pittsfield is playing from the condo and artists playbook. It's not unique, but it's been effective there and in other places.

Can Fitchburg become an artists mecca? We're somewhat skeptical. Partly because we don't have an artistic bone in our body and don't quite understand the arts world fully. Partly because if everyone else doing it, isn't there a critical mass of old downtowns going artsy? That said, if it works, do it.

One thing we were glad to see in the story is the downtown coordinator's search for the "one thing" to really give downtown a boost. We've advocated for that "one thing" in the past, and still do. We're not sure what that one thing is, but it's out there to be found.

The encouraging thing about the trip to Pittsfield is, if Pittsfield can do, Fitchburg should be able to. Remember, Pittsfield is about an hour or so from Albany, and about the same from Springfield. Fitchburg can shape itself as a commuter community to both Boston and Worcester.

It's a good sign officials are looking at other communities for ideas and inspiration. Hopefully some of that grows roots in Fitchburg in the future.