News

New Traffic Alert!/¡Alerta de Tráfico!

Posted on December 1, 2025

🚨 New Traffic Alert! 🚨The intersection of Dwight Street & Pine Street is now a 3-way stop! ⚠️Please drive carefully and watch for the new stop signs. Let’s keep our streets safe! 🙏 🚨 ¡Alerta de Tráfico! 🚨¡La intersección de Dwight Street y Pine Street ahora es un alto de 3 vías! ⚠️Conduzca con precaución...

Parking Ban – Odd Side December 2, 2025

Posted on December 1, 2025

🚨 Winter Parking Ban in Effect – Holyoke! 🚨 The Department of Public Works has issued a Winter Parking Ban ❄️🚫🅿️ starting Tuesday, December 2, 2025, at 7:00 AM. No parking on the ODD side of the street unless otherwise posted ➡️ No parking on cul-de-sacs 🚘❌ This parking ban will remain in effect until...

Holyoke’s Annual Christmas Tree Lighting, Parade of Lights to Launch Holiday Season

Posted on November 26, 2025

HOLYOKE — The City’s annual Christmas tree lighting and Parade of Lights will be held Saturday, December 6, at City Hall. The observance starts at 3 p.m. with free, unlimited carousel rides on the Holyoke Merry-Go-Round, photo opportunities with Christmas characters, and a visit by the balloon artists at Dazzleday. At 5, the action moves...

Discovery of Puerto Rico Day Flag Raising November 19th

Posted on November 18, 2025

Holyoke Flag-raising on November 19 To Mark “Discovery of Puerto Rico Day” HOLYOKE — “Discovery of Puerto Rico Day” will be observed with a flag-raising ceremony at Holyoke City Hall on Wednesday, November 19, at 3 p.m. Discovery Day is celebrated each year on November 19 to commemorate the arrival of Christopher Columbus in Puerto...

Trash and Recycling Schedule Update – 11/11/25

Posted on November 7, 2025

Trash and Recycling Schedule Update The Department of Public Works, including the Refuse and Recycling Center, will be closed on Tuesday, November 11, 2025, in observance of Veterans. As a result, trash and recycling collection will be delayed by one day starting on Tuesday, November 11. If your regular pickup day is Tuesday, your trash will...

FY26 Paving Program Update

Posted on November 7, 2025

City FY26 Fall Paving Program Update The City’s current paving contractor, Palmer Paving, is planning to begin milling (removal of pavement) and paving activities for streets included in Round 1 of the City’s FY26 Paving Program starting on or around October 8th . Streets included in Round 1 Paving include: -Lower Westfield Rd (Homestead Ave...

Holyoke Invites Applicants to Serve on Planning Board

Posted on October 28, 2025

The City of Holyoke invites interested residents to apply to serve on the City’s Planning Board. The Board’s responsibilities include reviewing preliminary and definitive plans for building projects by considering public testimony and City department comments in conjunction with the Holyoke Zoning Ordinance. Among other tasks, the Planning Board is charged with adopting a comprehensive...

Mayor Garcia named Mayor of the Year by Northeast Renewable Energy Coalition

Posted on October 6, 2025

Photo caption: Massachusetts Lieutenant Governor Kim Driscoll, left, hands award to Holyoke Mayor Joshua A. Garcia, who is joined on stage by Kristin Rode, executive director of the Northeast Renewable Energy Coalition, and Aman Patel, Coalition president.. BOSTON — Mayor Joshua A. Garcia was named Mayor of the Year Friday night by the Northeast Renewable...

Snow Plow Contractors Sought for 2025-26 Winter Season

Posted on October 3, 2025

Contractors Wanted – Holyoke Snow Plowing 2025/26! The City of Holyoke DPW is seeking qualified snow plow contractors for the 2025/26 winter season! Apply in person at: DPW, 63 Canal Street, Holyoke Help keep Holyoke’s streets safe and clear this winter!

Veolia Continues Service in Holyoke with new 10-year service agreement, Introducing Northeast’s First AI-Powered Wastewater Treatment System

Posted on September 26, 2025

HOLYOKE, Mass. – Veolia, the world’s leading provider of water services and environmental solutions, has entered into a new 10-year agreement to continue operation of the wastewater treatment plant for the City of Holyoke, Massachusetts, providing high standards of environmental security and professional operation for nearly 40,000 homes and businesses along the Connecticut River. Holyoke...

MassDOT Announces Closure of Second Appleton Street Bridge

Posted on September 26, 2025

HOLYOKE — The Massachusetts Department of Transportation (MassDOT) is announcing the immediate closure of the bridge carrying Appleton Street (Route 141) over the 2nd Level Canal in Holyoke. Earlier today, Thursday, during a scheduled bridge inspection, deterioration was discovered requiring the bridge’s closure. The bridge will be closed until further notice. Currently the project is at 25%...

Holyoke Launches PILOT Program to Sustain Public Services and Community Growth

Posted on September 26, 2025

Back in March 2025, Mayor Garcia announced that beginning July 1, 2025, a PILOT (Payment in Lieu of Taxes) policy will be implemented. The purpose of the policy is to bring in a portion of the money a tax-exempt property (for example, properties owned by non-profit organizations and quasi-public institutions) would pay were it not...

MassDOT closes Holyoke’s Appleton Street Bridge

Posted on September 23, 2025

MassDOT closes Holyoke’s Appleton Street bridge HOLYOKE — This afternoon, September 23, the City of Holyoke received notice from the Massachusetts Department of Transportation (MassDOT) that it is closing the Appleton Street bridge over the first level canal near Heritage State Park. According to Holyoke Mayor Joshua A. Garcia, the notification included the following:...

Holyoke Seeks Volunteers to Serve on Opioid Advisory Committee

Posted on September 12, 2025

HOLYOKE — The City of Holyoke seeks Holyoke residents (18+ years old) to serve on a volunteer Citizens Opioid Advisory Committee (COAC) overseen by the Office for Community Development to review grant applications and make funding recommendations to the Mayor. Up to nine members will be selected. Committee members should live, stay, or otherwise have...

Holyoke Open Space and Recreation Plan Survey

Posted on September 10, 2025

Holyoke is currently in the process of updating our Open Space and Recreation Plan (OSRP). An OSRP is a tool that outlines community strategies for managing and improving natural conservation areas, recreational facilities, and open spaces. Municipalities are required to have an active OSRP to be eligible for certain grant funds. We encourage you to...

Holyoke Sets Hearings on Best Use of Opioid Funds

Posted on September 3, 2025

HOLYOKE — The city’s Office for Community Development is holding two community forums on Monday, September 8, to get the public’s thoughts on how to use money from opioid lawsuit settlements. This is the community’s opportunity to share what residents think Holyoke needs most when it comes to opioid use. The city is seeking community feedback...

Comité de la Ley de Preservación de la Comunidad (CPAC) Busca la opinión del público

Posted on August 5, 2025

La Ley de Preservación de la Comunidad (CPA) proporciona fondos que preservan y mejoran la ciudad, según las necesidades locales determinadas por sus residentes. Los fondos están disponibles para proyectos en las siguientes categorías: Vivienda, Preservación Histórica, Recreación al Aire Libre y Adquisición de Espacios Abiertos. Para hacer oír su voz, complete la encuesta, disponible...

Community Preservation Act Committee (CPAC) Seeks Public Input

Posted on August 5, 2025

The Community Preservation Act (CPA) provides funding that preserves and enhances the city, based on local need as determined by its residents. Funding is available for projects in the following categories: Housing, Historic Preservation, Outdoor Recreation, and Open Space Acquisition. To make your voice heard, please complete the survey, available in both English & Spanish....

Holyoke City Clerk Brenna Murphy Leary Announces Preliminary and Municipal Election Races

Posted on July 31, 2025

HOLYOKE — City Clerk Brenna Murphy Leary has announced the lineup for the upcoming Preliminary and Municipal Elections. The deadline for submitting nomination papers to get on the November 4, 2025, Municipal Election ballot was Tuesday, July 29, 2025. The ballot signals Preliminary races in Wards 1 and 5. Preliminary races occur when more than...

Beech Street at Resnic Boulevard Design Public Hearing August 20, 2025

Posted on July 28, 2025

A design public hearing will be held for the Beech Street at Resnic Boulevard Improvement Project in Holyoke. The purpose of the hearing is to describe the Project and record public input for consideration into the Project’s design to the maximum extent possible.The existing signalized intersection will be reconstructed as a roundabout. How will this...

FY26 Budget Approved by the City Council with minor cuts

Posted on July 2, 2025

On June 23, the City Council convened in a Special meeting to review and vote on the Mayor’s proposed FY26 budget. Click to review final approved budget for FY26 in detail. In this phase of the budget process, the City Council can cut but can not add to the budget. The council made $148,838 worth of cuts which includes: $25,000...

FY26 Budget Approved by City Council with minor cuts

Posted on July 2, 2025

From Mayor Joshua A. Garcia: On June 23, the City Council convened in a Special meeting to review and vote on the Mayor’s proposed FY26 budget. I will have a clean version of the updated budget on the city website soon. In this phase of the budget process, the City Council can cut but can not add...

Holyoke Community Preservation Act Committee Seeking Applications for FY26 Grant Cycle

Posted on June 25, 2025

The City of Holyoke Community Preservation Act Committee is pleased to announce the opening of their FY26 grant cycle. Potential applicants are invited to submit eligibility application forms by August 15th. Created by the Commonwealth of Massachusetts in 2000 and adopted by the City of Holyoke in 2016, the purpose of the CPA is to support Historic...

High & Maple Street Corridor Improvement Project

Posted on June 6, 2025

The City of Holyoke, in collaboration with the Massachusetts Department of Transportation (MassDOT), will be holding a Public Information Meeting to discuss proposed improvements along High Street and Maple Street, between South Street and Lyman Street, on Tuesday, June 24, 2025, at 5:30 PM at the Holyoke Public Library, 250 Chestnut Street, Holyoke, MA 01040....

Public Invited to Speak on Proposed FY26 Budget

Posted on June 4, 2025

During the City Council meeting on Tuesday, June 3rd, councilors unanimously voted to open the budget hearing on June 9th to members of the public to weigh in on the proposed budget for the 2026 fiscal year. Prior to the final hearing of questions that councilors will ask of city departments, residents will be invited...

Car Show in Holyoke June 14 Will Close Portion of High Street

Posted on June 3, 2025

HOLYOKE — A Car Show on Saturday, June 14, will involve closing a portion of High Street between Cabot Street and Appleton Avenue from 8 a.m. until 5 p.m. The "Wheels for Hope" Car Show is an annual, family-friendly fundraiser that supports cancer research and patient care and raises awareness. The 2025 edition will feature 25...

Mayor’s Proposed FY26 City Budget

Posted on May 12, 2025

State of the City Address The public is invited to observe at the upcoming Special City Council Meeting scheduled for Tuesday, May 13, 6pm where I, Mayor Joshua A. Garcia, will be delivering the proposed FY26 City Budget and sharing the State of the City Address. Mayor’s Budget Narrative The proposed FY26 City of Holyoke budget reflects current revenue...

Holyoke to Hold Forums to Hear From Residents on Superintendent Search

Posted on May 5, 2025

Holyoke residents asked: “What qualities are important in a superintendent?” HOLYOKE — The Holyoke Community Advisory Team and School Committee want to know what qualities and skills are important in a Holyoke superintendent. Community members are invited to share their thoughts during two in-person forums and one virtual forum via Zoom. The two in-person forums...

Holyoke Arbor Day Celebration

Posted on April 28, 2025

Join the City of Holyoke, Massachusetts DCR and Eagle Eye Institute to celebrate Arbor Day! We’ll gather to plant & give away trees, and to hear speeches from the Mayor of Holyoke Joshua Garcia, Founders of Eagle Eye Anthony and MaJa & more! – – – Vengan a acompañar a la ciudad de Holyoke, Massachusetts...

River Terrace CSO-21 Separation – Phase A – Project Information Sheet

Posted on April 22, 2025

Project Information Sheet

City of Holyoke Annual Fireworks Celebration Announced

Posted on April 18, 2025

The City of Holyoke will be hosting the annual 4th of July fireworks on Friday, June 27 (with a rain-date of June 29). The event will take place on the grounds of Holyoke Community College, at 303 Homestead Avenue. This event is sponsored by Holyoke Gas and Electric. And we are thankful for our partnership...

Aggressive schedule to fully fund Retirement is driving high taxes

Posted on April 7, 2025

“Why are my taxes so high?” Fair question! There are about three budget busters driving your high taxes but there is one in particular I want to highlight. When it comes to your property tax there’s a little-known but very substantial contributing factor: the public employee pension appropriation. Unlike public safety, schools, or roads, the...

Holyoke’s Municipal Finance Modernization Act presented to City Council

Posted on April 7, 2025

At an April City Council meeting an order was taken up and forwarded to appropriate committees (Charter and Rules Committee and Ordinance Committee) along with a 20 page document introducing a suite of changes to the city ordinances and city charter. These changes specifically aim to modernize and achieve efficiencies in how financial resources are managed. The...

Adopt-an-Island Program – City of Holyoke

Posted on March 31, 2025

The Adopt-an-Island program in the City of Holyoke is a program the Mayor's office has been organizing for decades and has been a source of pride in our community. The program welcomes residents and local businesses to voluntarily take over empty lots or "islands" in high traffic areas of the city and beautify them by...

Central Pioneer Valley Health District Meeting Meeting Postings

Posted on March 28, 2025

Central Pioneer Valley Health District Meeting Posting

Friendly reminder to community of responsibility to keep city clean

Posted on March 28, 2025

With warmer days ahead, I want to remind the community (residents and businesses alike) of our shared responsibility to keep our city clean. This is extremely important, not only because it’s required by our city laws but because it’s the right thing to do for each other and for our environment. This means making sure...

Standard & Poor (S&P) affirms Holyoke’s A+ rating

Posted on March 25, 2025

HOLYOKE — In an announcement welcomed by City officials, the Standard & Poor (S&P) rating agency has affirmed Holyoke’s A+ bond rating and given Holyoke high marks for its financial management policies. Click to review report. S&P also assigned the City its “SP-1+” short-term rating for $32.2 million in bond anticipation notes (BANs). SP-1+ is...

Holyoke to Observe Vietnam War Veterans Day

Posted on March 24, 2025

HOLYOKE — The City’s Veterans Service Department will hold a flag-raising ceremony at City Hall on Friday, March 28, at 10 a.m., in observance of the Vietnam War 50th Year Commemoration. In 2012, President Obama signed a presidential proclamation, designating March 29 as the annual observance of Vietnam War Veterans Day. The signing of the...

Mayor Garcia to roll out Payment in Lieu of Taxes (PILOT) policy for Tax Exempt property owners, beginning July 1

Posted on March 20, 2025

A policy designed to gain revenue from tax-exempt property owners was presented to a City Council subcommittee Tuesday. Known as a PILOT — Payment in Lieu of Taxes — the purpose of the policy is to bring in a portion of the money a tax-exempt property (for example, properties owned by non-profit organizations and quasi-public institutions) would...

Road Closure Information for Parade Weekend 2025

Posted on March 17, 2025

With the annual Holyoke St. Patrick's Day Road Race and Parade taking place this weekend, certain roads will be closed along race and parade routes. Drivers traveling around Holyoke should take note of the following information: Road Race Friday, March 21st Beginning at 3pm, Maple Street will be closed from Hampden Street to Lyman...

Hazard Mitigation and Climate Adaptation Plan for City of Holyoke Draft Available for Public Comments

Posted on March 10, 2025

March 10, 2025 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: The City of Holyoke has experienced multiple natural hazard events over the last few years, from heavy rain and flooding to extreme heat events, and from windstorms to winter storms that may lead to power outages. These events serve as continuous reminders of the risks posed by natural...

Holyoke is Updating Our Open Space and Recreation Plan!

Posted on March 5, 2025

Holyoke is currently in the process of updating our Open Space and Recreation Plan. Make your voice heard and take this survey! English- https://forms.gle/UFUJ9H88ikKteXhx8 Holyoke esta actualizando nuestro plan de espacios abiertos y recreación. ¡Haga valer tu voz y toma la encuesta! Español- https://forms.gle/nCwcntbGzWxcarhQA ...

Main Street Public Information Meeting

Posted on February 26, 2025

Main St Improvement Project The City of Holyoke will be conducting a Public Information Meeting to discuss proposed improvements on Main Street, between Canal Street and Mosher Street, on Wednesday, March 12, 2025 from 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM at the Nueva Esperanza Mercado, 409 Main St, Holyoke, MA 01040. Light refreshments will be...

Girl Day 2025 at Holyoke City Hall

Posted on February 11, 2025

HOLYOKE — Girls Inc. of the Valley will host Girl Day 2025 at City Hall on February 20 as part of Engineer Week. The focus of the day is to inspire and empower girls to explore STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) fields through hands-on activities, mentorship, and educational experiences. Girl Day aligns with DiscoverE’s...

2025 St. Patrick Parade and Road Race Application

Posted on February 11, 2025

2025 Parade & Road race Memo & Application

Parking Ban Lifted

Posted on February 10, 2025

Hello residents of Holyoke. The Department of Public Works is pleased to inform you that the parking ban will be lifted Monday February 10, 2025, at 7:00 p.m. You will be free to park on the streets without any restrictions by then. Thank you for your cooperation. ___________________________________________________________________________________ Hola residentes de Holyoke. El Departamento de...

Prohibicion de Estacionamiento Invernal Sabado 8 de Febrero de 2025

Posted on February 7, 2025

PROHIBICION DE ESTACIONAMIENTO INVERNAL La Ciudad de Holyoke, Departamento de Obras Públicas, ha emitido una prohibición regular de estacionamiento en invierno, que estará en vigor desde: SABADO 8 DE FEBRERO A LAS 6:00 P.M. HASTA NUEVO AVISO NO HABRÁ ESTACIONAMIENTO EN EL LADO IMPAR DE LA CALLE A MENOS QUE SE INDIQUE LO CONTRARIO Y...

Winter Parking Ban Saturday February 8, 2025

Posted on February 7, 2025

URGENT TRANSMITTAL Winter Parking Ban The City of Holyoke, Department of Public Works, has issued a regular Winter Parking Ban to be in effect from: SATURDAY FEBRUARY 8 AT 6:00 P.M. UNTIL FURTHER NOTICE THERE WILL BE NO PARKING ON THE ODD SIDE OF THE STREET UNLESS OTHERWISE POSTED AND NO PARKING ON CUL-DE-SACS

Bulk Waste Facilities Closed on Thursday, February 6, 2025

Posted on February 5, 2025

Due to the inclement weather our Bulk Waste Facilities will be closed on Thursday, February 6, 2025. We apologize for the inconvenience. DPW

City of Holyoke to Host First Public Meeting as Part of a Wayfinding Signage Plan for Downtown

Posted on February 3, 2025

HOLYOKE, MA – The City of Holyoke, under the direction of the City’s Office of Planning and Economic Development, has recently begun working with consulting firm Stantec to develop a wayfinding plan for the downtown area. The goal of the plan is to establish an approach for a new wayfinding signage system that could replace...

Holyoke to Observe Black History Month With Flag-Raising at City Hall and Storytelling Program at Library

Posted on February 3, 2025

HOLYOKE — Black History Month, which is observed every February, will be marked in Holyoke with a flag-raising ceremony at City Hall on Wednesday, February 12, at 4:30 p.m. followed by a storytelling program at the Holyoke Public Library at 6 p.m. The public is invited to both events, Speakers at the flag-raising will include...

FY26 Budget Planning Process begins

Posted on January 27, 2025

The new budget preparation season is here! A memo to all departments with instructions for the FY26 budget planning process was distributed today. To review memo click here. While departments work on their first draft budget requests, just like in previous years, the Mayor will be connecting with City Councilors one-on-one to go over their objectives...

Affirming the rights of immigrants: A joint statement from Mayor Garcia and Superintendent Soto

Posted on January 24, 2025

January 24, 2025 Dear Holyoke community members and staff, As your mayor and as your superintendent of schools, we are affirming our commitment to ensure and protect the rights of all Holyoke residents and employees, and especially our newcomer and immigrant families whose safety and well-being are now imperiled by recent announcements at the federal...

City of Holyoke Establishes Emergency Shelter for Unhoused Amid Winter Weather

Posted on January 17, 2025

HOLYOKE — In response to the impending winter snowstorm and low temperatures, the City of Holyoke announces the opening of an emergency shelter dedicated to providing refuge for the unhoused population. The location is 51 Hamilton Street. Access is through Kate's Kitchen door in the back parking lot. The shelter will open at 5 p.m....

Enhance Our Community: Report Issues with SeeClickFix

Posted on January 10, 2025

We have a shared responsibility to keep our city clean and safe, not only because it’s required by our city laws but because it’s the right thing to do for each other and for our environment. There are several ways the community can communicate quality-of-life concerns to the city (potholes, streetlight outages, graffiti, park maintenance,...

FAQ: Special Election on January 28, 2025

Posted on January 9, 2025

FAQ: Special Election on January 28, 2025 On January 28, 2025, Holyoke voters will participate in a special election to decide whether the City Treasurer should continue to be an elected position or become a position appointed by the City Council. This document provides answers to common questions and explains the context and rationale behind...

An Open Letter from the City Council Regarding the January 28th Appointed Treasurer Special Election

Posted on January 9, 2025

An Open Letter to the Public The Members of the Holyoke City Council write to you today to ask for your support in the upcoming Special Election on January 28th. We are asking you, along with the support of the Mayor and the current Treasurer, to change the position of Treasurer from elected to appointed....

Holyoke to Vote January 28 on Changing Treasurer’s Post from Elected to Appointed

Posted on January 3, 2025

HOLYOKE — At a Special Election Tuesday, January 28, City voters will be asked if they want to continue the practice of electing the City Treasurer or approve a City Charter change to make the position appointed, rather than elected. Polls will be open from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. In-person and absentee voting options...

Oath of Office Ceremony, swearing-in of new Police Chief

Posted on December 23, 2024

HOLYOKE — The public is invited to the Oath of Office ceremony for Brian Keenan, Holyoke’s incoming Police Chief. The ceremony will take place in the ballroom at Holyoke City Hall, 536 Dwight Street, on Tuesday, January 7, at 11 a.m. Father Mark Stelzer will offer an opening prayer. The speakers will be Holyoke Mayor...

Shift factor determined, tax rate set

Posted on December 18, 2024

On Tuesday, December 17, the City Council voted on the shift factor that set the tax rate for residential and commercial properties. For the first time in years, favorable shifts were presented and concluded a significant reduction of tax rates for both residential and commercial properties. However, the average single-family home tax bill will still...

Holyoke to Host Annual Kwanzaa Celebration

Posted on December 16, 2024

HOLYOKE — The City of Holyoke will host an observance of Kwanzaa on Saturday, December 28, at 10 a.m. at City Hall. Kwanzaa, which is observed annually the last week of December, celebrates African heritage and Kwanzaa’s seven principles: Umoja (Unity) To strive for unity in the family, community, nation, and race; Kujichagulia (Self-Determination) To define ourselves,...

MEMO From Mayor: City Council to vote on shift factor for tax rate

Posted on December 16, 2024

It’s that time of the year! The City Council will convene at a Special Meeting scheduled for Monday, December 16 at 7:00 pm to vote on a shift factor that will determine the tax rate for residential and commercial properties. Before deliberating on how to balance the tax burden between these categories, I am introducing to the...

Holyoke City Hall to Host Hanukkah Observance

Posted on December 12, 2024

Holyoke City Hall to Host Hanukkah Observance December 26 at 5:30 p.m. HOLYOKE — A Hanukkah observance organized by Congregation Sons of Zion in collaboration with Congregation Rodphey Sholom will be held at Holyoke City Hall, 536 Dwight Street, on Thursday, December 26, at 5:30 p.m. The public is invited. This ninth annual celebration at City...

Holyoke’s Annual Tree Lighting, Parade of Lights Set for December 7th, 2024

Posted on December 2, 2024

HOLYOKE — The City’s traditional celebration of the holiday season will kick off Saturday, December 7. From 3 until 5 p.m., the Holyoke Merry Go Round at Heritage Park will offer free rides. Children and families will have the opportunity to pose for photos with holiday characters. Also, at the Holyoke Children’s Museum, young people...

Finalist for Holyoke Police Chief To Be Interviewed in Public Session

Posted on November 27, 2024

Holyoke — The finalist for the position of Police Chief will be interviewed by Mayor Joshua A. Garcia in a public session on Thursday, December 5, at 4 p.m. The interview will be conducted in City Council Chambers at Holyoke City Hall, 536 Dwight Street. The interview will conclude a competitive selection process facilitated by...

Holyoke Lands $247,850 in Grants to Fund Development of a Speed-management Plan – looking for citizens to serve on task force

Posted on November 14, 2024

HOLYOKE — The City of Holyoke has been awarded state and federal grants totaling $247,850 to fund the preparation of a comprehensive speed-management plan to bring about safer streets. “This is extremely good news and great timing,” said Holyoke Mayor Joshua A. Garcia. “With these combined funding, we can work up a comprehensive, strategic approach...

Acting Commissioner Johnston announces provisional exit from receivership for HPS

Posted on October 29, 2024

Dear HPS Students, Families, Staff, and Community Members, On behalf of the School Committee and Holyoke Public Schools team, we are energized that Acting Commissioner Johnston announced earlier today his provisional decision to remove Holyoke Public Schools’ chronically underperforming designation at the end of the school year, anticipated for July 1, 2025. This announcement reflects...

Holyoke Police Chief Search Extended and October 30 Final Interview Session Postponed

Posted on October 26, 2024

HOLYOKE - The search for a new Police Chief has been extended by two weeks after one of the two finalists for the position withdrew his candidacy, according to Holyoke Mayor Joshua A. Garcia. The Mayor's scheduled final interview of the finalist/s for the position of Police Chief has been postponed. That interview session had...

Holyoke unveils “Graffiti Eater” to combat Graffiti in the City

Posted on October 17, 2024

Property owners in Holyoke can now tackle graffiti defacement with the support of theCity. The Holyoke Board of Health has introduced a new initiative to assist property owners in removing unwanted graffiti, utilizing the newly acquired" Graffiti Eater." The Graffiti Eater is a state-of-the-art trailer equipped with a power washing machine and eco-friendly materials designed...

Holyoke reminds liquor license holders to file for renewal

Posted on October 17, 2024

The City’s License Board reminds all Holyoke liquor license holders that it is the time for renewing alcohol licenses for the year 2025. Every year the renewal process begins with notices being sent by the Building Department to schedule site inspections. The first round of notices to license holders was sent August 20. A second...

Candidates for Holyoke Police Chief to be interviewed in public – POSTPONED

Posted on October 17, 2024

Update: Interviews have been postponed. Please check back for a new date to be rescheduled soon. The two finalists for the position of Police Chief will be interviewed by Mayor Joshua A. Garcia in a public session on Wednesday, October 30, at 5 p.m. The interviews will be conducted at Holyoke City Hall, 536 Dwight...

PROJECT UPDATE: High St. and Maple St. Reconstruction Project

Posted on October 4, 2024

Project Update – 10/3/24 High St and Maple St Reconstruction MassDOT Project No. 613320 Since the public engagement meetings in late February/early March 2024, the following work has been done by the consultants together with MassDOT in advancing the project: NOTE: Checkout presentation of preliminary public meetings - https://www.mass.gov/.../massdot-meeting.../download Completed Intersection Control Evaluation (ICE) Stage...

PROJECT UPDATE – Resurfacing and Related Work on Cabot Street and Race Street (Center City Connector)

Posted on October 4, 2024

Project Update – 10/3/24 Resurfacing And Related Work on Cabot Street And Race Street (Center City Connector) MassDOT Project No. 609065 Project Status The project is on the 2025 State Transportation Improvement Program (STIP) which means that construction will be fully funded with federal funding managed by the Massachusetts Department of Transportation (MassDOT). Under this...

Flag-Raising in Holyoke Friday will Mark Polish American Heritage Month

Posted on October 2, 2024

HOLYOKE — The Polish American flag will be raised over City Hall on Friday, October 4, at 11:30 a.m. as part of a ceremony celebrating Polish history, culture, and pride. Members of the Polish community will gather outside City Hall for the observance. Holyoke Mayor Joshua A. Garcia will read a proclamation designating October as...

Hazard Mitigation Plan Public Workshop

Posted on September 20, 2024

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: The City of Holyoke has experienced multiple natural hazard events over the last few years, from heavy rain and flooding to extreme heat events, and from wind storms to winter storms that may lead to power outages. These events serve as continuous reminders of the risks posed by natural disasters. The City...

PUBLIC NOTICE: Holyoke Water Works

Posted on September 20, 2024

PUBLIC NOTICE: The Holyoke Water Works is providing notice to its customers of water service interruption that will include loss of water pressure and possible discoloration due to work performed on the public water system for the new Holyoke Soldiers Home located off Cherry Street. The areas impacted from the work have been identified as...

Invitación a formar parte del Comité Asesor de la Comunidad de Holyoke para la Transición al Control Local de las Escuelas Públicas de Holyoke:

Posted on September 18, 2024

En colaboración con el Departamento de Educación Primaria y Secundaria de Massachusetts (DESE), el Comité Escolar de HPS está desarrollando un plan para la transición de la administración estatal de nuevo al control local. El Comité Escolar planea construir sobre los logros del distrito y escuchar a las partes interesadas acerca de sus esperanzas y...

Invitation to join the Community Advisory Committee for Transition to Local Control

Posted on September 17, 2024

In partnership with the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE), the HPS School Committee is developing a plan to transition from state receivership back to local control. The School Committee plans to build on the district’s accomplishments and listen to stakeholders about their hopes and expectations for the future of HPS and what...

Milling operations on Easthampton Rd (Route 141) are still scheduled to begin on Monday, September 23rd.

Posted on September 13, 2024

Milling operations on Easthampton Rd (Route 141) are still scheduled to begin on Monday, September 23rd. As such, the following detours are planned: Monday, Sept. 23rd Westbound traffic (from Easthampton to Holyoke) will be detoured to Clark St to East St and will follow the detour used for closing Mountain Rd during inclement weather from...

La ciudad de Holyoke organizará sesiones de escucha sobre el Plan Integral este otoño

Posted on September 13, 2024

La ciudad de Holyoke está trazando el camino para el próximo capítulo de su historia. Por primera vez desde 1999, está actualizando su Plan Integral, un documento exigido por la Commonwealth bajo MGL Ch 41 Sec. 81D que requiere que las ciudades y pueblos de Massachusetts mantengan un plan para su desarrollo físico a largo...

Holyoke to Host Comprehensive Plan Listening Sessions this Fall

Posted on September 12, 2024

HOLYOKE — The City of Holyoke is charting a path for the next chapter in its history. For the first time since 1999, Holyoke is updating its Comprehensive Plan, a Commonwealth-mandated document under that requires Massachusetts cities and towns to maintain a plan for their long-term physical development. Through comprehensive plans, cities and towns envision aspirational...

Holyoke Moves Forward to Eliminate Wastewater Discharges into Connecticut River

Posted on September 9, 2024

HOLYOKE — The City of Holyoke continues to eliminate combined sewer overflows (CSO) that cause discharges into the Connecticut River. The Holyoke wastewater system now prevents around 70 percent of solid waste from bypassing the treatment plant during heavy rains. According to Mary L. Monahan, chair of the City’s Board of Public Works, Holyoke was...

Holyoke Mayor Garcia Seeks Resolution of $20.7 million Building Code Fines

Posted on September 9, 2024

HOLYOKE — Mayor Joshua A. Garcia has advice for property owners with outstanding fines for building code violation's: Clear up or pay up. “Landlords, property managers, and homeowners of units of three families and higher should know that the City of Holyoke is preparing to turn over to the Tax Collector those property owners who...

Holyoke invites applications for Ward 1 and 4 School Committee interim appointments

Posted on August 29, 2024

HOLYOKE — The City of Holyoke invites interested residents of Ward 1 and Ward 4 to apply for interim appointment to the Ward 1 and Ward 4 School Committee seats. The two elected School Committee representatives for those wards have resigned from the board. Gustavo Romero of Ward 1, noted in his resignation letter to...

School Committee Approves Capacity Building Plan as Next Step Toward Return to Local Control

Posted on August 21, 2024

After five months of discussions, research, and planning, members of the Holyoke School Committee on Monday, August 19, voted unanimously to adopt a Capacity Building Plan as the next step towards ending receivership in the district. The Capacity Building Plan spells out concrete steps and timelines to ensure the district’s elected board is well prepared...

Holyoke’s Local Control Subcommittee To Present School Committee Capacity Building Plan at August 19 Meeting

Posted on August 14, 2024

HOLYOKE — On Monday, August 19, Holyoke’s Local Control Subcommittee will present to the full School Committee and the public its plan that consists of trainings and professional development requirements in order to regain local control of Holyoke’s Public Schools. Implementation of the capacity building plan will begin during the 2024-25 school year. The presentation...

Holyoke to Develop Policy Asking Tax-exempt Property Owners to Make Payments in Lieu of Taxes

Posted on August 7, 2024

HOLYOKE — Mayor Joshua A. Garcia is contracting with a public policy consultant to help Holyoke initiate a formal Payment in Lieu of Taxes (PILOT) policy. “Because we are a compassionate City, we are home to an exceptionally large number of tax-exempt nonprofits that offer a range of services to vulnerable populations,” Garcia said. “Along...

Holyoke’s Police Chief Search Committee to hold public listening session on August 27

Posted on August 7, 2024

HOLYOKE - The Search Committee tasked with evaluating candidates for the position of police chief and then forwarding their recommendations to the Mayor will hold a public listening session at Holyoke Media on Tuesday, August 27, from 5 to 7 p.m. Police Chief David Pratt announced his retirement on May 3. After 31 years of...

Holyoke DPW Commission votes to put wastewater treatment services out to bid

Posted on August 7, 2024

HOLYOKE - The City’s Board of Public Works on Monday, July 29, voted 2-1 to ask Mayor Joshua A. Garcia to invite proposals from companies interested in taking charge of Holyoke’s wastewater treatment services. The existing 20-year contract expires September 29, 2025. The City has never switched contractors since its initial contract with Aquarion Water...

West Nile Virus Positive Mosquito

Posted on August 5, 2024

A West Nile Virus positive mosquito sample was detected in the city of Holyoke as part of ongoing mosquito monitoring in the region. Additional monitoring will be conducted in Holyoke. More information can be found here: https://www.mass.gov/info-details/massachusetts-arbovirus-update West Nile Virus is most commonly spread to people through the bite of an infected mosquito. More information about different...

La ciudad solicita la opinión de la comunidad sobre la búsqueda de un Jefe de Policía

Posted on July 29, 2024

La ciudad de Holyoke llevará a cabo una búsqueda para el próximo Jefe de Policía de Holyoke. Nos gustaría escuchar a la comunidad de Holyoke sobre lo que ellos piensan que es importante que el próximo Jefe de Policía se enfoque y las cualidades que el próximo Jefe de Policía debe poseer. Por favor, complete...

City Seeking Community Input on Police Chief Search

Posted on July 29, 2024

The City of Holyoke will be conducting a search for Holyoke's next Chief of Police. We would like to hear from the Holyoke community on what they think is important for the next Chief of Police to focus on and the qualities the next Chief of Police should possess. Please complete this survey by Friday, August...

City Council approves FY25 Budget

Posted on June 25, 2024

On Tuesday, June 11, the City Council convened to review and vote on the Mayor’s proposed FY25 budget (click to review budget). Watch the full City Council meeting here. In this phase of the budget process, the City Council can cut but can not add to the budget. The council made $62,290 worth of cuts which includes:...

City of Holyoke Fireworks Set for June 28th

Posted on May 28, 2024

HOLYOKE, MA- Holyoke’s July 4th Fireworks Celebration will take place on Friday, June 28th with the rain date of Sunday, June 30th on the beautiful grounds of Holyoke Community College, located on Homestead Avenue. “First, I’d like to thank Holyoke Gas & Electric, Holyoke Community College, and the city’s departments for continuing this tradition,” says...

Seeking candidates to fill vacant At-Large School Committee seat

Posted on May 21, 2024

HOLYOKE — Stating “this year has been particularly challenging for my family,” Erin Brunelle, vice chair of the Holyoke School Committee, submitted her resignation on May 15 to the Holyoke School Committee. Her resignation was effective immediately. Mayor Garcia expressed his gratitude and appreciation for Brunelle’s 10 years of service on the School Committee. “I...

Building Department COI Tutorial

Posted on May 21, 2024

HOLYOKE — The City’s Building Department on Thursday, May 23, at 6 p.m. will give a presentation on the steps required to obtain a Certificate of Inspection. The presentation — a short tutorial followed by Q&A — will be held at Holyoke Media on Suffolk Street. Though open to the public, the one-hour session is...

Mayor’s State of the City Address

Posted on May 10, 2024

Mayor Joshua A. Garcia presented the proposed FY25 City Budget to the City Council and delivered a State of the City Address at a Special Meeting of the City Council on May 9, 2024. Click to watch video of the speech on Holyoke Media. “Thank you, Holyoke city councilors, for the opportunity to address you tonight....

Mayor’s Proposed FY25 City Budget

Posted on May 9, 2024

The following is a snapshot overview of the FY25 proposed budget in detail (note: these are subject to change between now and June 30, 2024): Consolidated Workbook of Proposed FY25 Budget FY25 Working Budget Detailed The proposed FY25 budget presented to the City Council is based on what we understand to be our revenue and expense...

Downtown Facilities Parking Improvement

Posted on April 30, 2024

At the City of Holyoke in our downtown we have three parking garage facilities that require attention. These include: 1) Ernest Proulx Municipal Parking Facility located on Dwight Street; 2) Suffolk Street Municipal Parking located off of Suffolk Street, and 3) we have the parking deck directly behind City Hall. Price quotes to address the...

Mayor’s Op-ed: Holyoke, we punch above our weight

Posted on April 26, 2024

I would like to offer both detail and context to the depiction of Holyoke in Boston Globe reporter Katie Johnston’s April 18 news profile (“In Holyoke, a home of her own: One woman’s struggle to build a life in the state’s poorest place”). The Globe report suggests that Holyoke is a low-opportunity city. Not so....