questionsOn June 20, 2006 City Council approved the conversion of 120 acres in the Turkey Hill area to permanently protected land under Article 97. Fee acquisition of the land was made possible
with cooperation from the Trustees of Reservations, Massachusetts Audubon Society, Town of Westhampton, and the broader community. This property, just off Turkey Hill Road in western
Northampton is a key wildlife corridor and contains two vernal pools. The purpose of the land acquisition is to preserve the existing wooded state of the property for wildlife and the
enjoyment of future generations via passive recreation.
Northampton’s new Senior Center received its Certificate of Occupancy on August 9, 2007. The building meets various criteria including sustainable design, construction, and location
that enable it to be LEED certified (we are currently awaiting certification). The Center is conveniently located downtown. Indoor environmental quality was addressed by using materials
with low toxicity ratings such as vinyl tile. Photovoltaics were installed on the roof water and an innovative system for storm water was constructed enabling 70-75% of drainage to
remain on site. Finally, a geothermal system to heat, cool, and provide hot water will emit 23% less carbon dioxide than a comparable standard building.