BUSINESS BRIEFS August 17, 2026: Business news in the Berkshires and beyond

August 17, 2026 - 07:50

A roundup of recent business and organizational news from across the Berkshires and surrounding areas.

Olana State Historic Site has announced its fall program lineup, featuring guided landscape tours that highlight the property's historic viewshed and new exhibitions focused on the Hudson River School painter Frederic Church. The site also reported a strong summer visitation season, with ticket sales up compared to last year. Officials credit expanded evening hours and a new audio tour for the increase.

Berkshire Botanical Garden in Stockbridge is launching a new horticultural therapy certificate program this October. The 12-week course, developed in partnership with local healthcare providers, will train participants in using plant-based activities for mental and physical wellness. Garden staff say the program has been in development for two years and responds to growing demand from regional care facilities.

Berkshire Health Systems announced a $2.5 million investment to upgrade its electronic medical records infrastructure. The project, scheduled for completion in early 2027, will improve data sharing between its hospitals, physician practices, and affiliated clinics. Hospital administrators said the upgrade will reduce wait times for test results and streamline patient referrals. The system also reported that its urgent care centers saw a 15 percent increase in visits during the past month, likely due to seasonal allergies and minor summer injuries.

Other regional notes: The Dalton Chamber of Commerce has set a date for its annual fall festival, and the Clark Art Institute in Williamstown is hiring for several part-time visitor services roles.

Business owners and nonprofit leaders are reminded that the Berkshire Regional Planning Commission will host a small business workshop on September 9, covering state grant opportunities and workforce retention strategies. Registration is open through the commission's website.