NORTH ADAMS -- The city will host a public Massachusetts Department of Transportation (MassDOT) Board of Directors monthly meeting today, and state transportation officials are trekking west with a special vehicle in tow.
The Massachusetts Bay Commuter Railroad (MBCR) Gold Star Mem orial Train, bearing the starred names of more than 150 state service men and women lost in the Iraq and Afghanistan wars, will be on view today at Building 4 at Western Gateway Heritage State Park
"Our own Michael DeMarsico is now represented on that car," Alcombright said Tues day. "It's a great tribute to have that car and DOT come out here."
Spc. DeMarsico was killed Aug. 16 by an enemy improvised explosive de vice in Afghanistan
The gold star train was completed before Memorial Day this year, according to MBCR. Since then, it's visited municipalities all along the commonwealth's railways as a tribute to the state's fallen soldiers.
The board meeting, scheduled for 1 to 5 p.m. in the City Council Chambers, kicks off with questions and concerns fielded from attendees.
"Right at the beginning, there will be a public comment period," Alcombright said. "It's a great opportunity for people to come watch government in motion."
Agenda items include comments from Alcom bright and Pittsfield Mayor Daniel L. Bianchi, a presentation from Berkshire Regional Transit Authority, a
report from MassDOT CEO Richard A. Davey and reports from other MassDOT division managers.
MassDOT's visit, ac cording to their website, is connected to an initiative pushed by the Legislature to collect information about transportation needs throughout the commonwealth and prioritize various projects based on available funding. On Thurs day, Davey and other MassDOT representatives will visit Pittsfield Public Library for a public forum from 6 to 8 p.m.
"They didn't forget us throughout Tropical Storm Irene, and they've been receptive to most, if not all, of what I've asked for over my three years," Alcombright said. "DOT's our friend."
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