academy questionsQ&A – Academy of Music
Has MassHistoric reviewed and supplied comments/approval?
MassHistoric has approved the project. We submitted 2 projects for approval, letter attached.
My memory is that we denied the last application, but the narrative implies that we partially
funded work in 2018. Can you confirm this?
In regards to a rejection, we were awarded partial funding and we completed the auditorium
lighting and opera boxes. There was lack of support for wheelchair accessible renovations and
questions about the permanent historical document exhibit, however, I have taken those out of
this proposal.
The Commonwealth of Massachusetts
William Francis Galvin , Secretary of the Commonwealth
September 22, 2020 Massachusetts Historical Commission
Debra J' Anthony
Executive Director
Academy of Music
274 Main Street
Northampton, MA 01060
RE: The Academy of Music Theatre, 274 Main Street, Northampton, MA; MHC# RC.28678
Dear Ms. J' Anthony:
Staff of the Massachusetts Historical Commission (MHC) have reviewed the Project Notification Form (PNF) that was
submitted by Thomas Douglas Architects, received at this office on August 31, 2020 for the project referenced above.
The proposed project consists of the painting and surface finishes to the lobby, salon, accessible bathroom and
basement hall. The proposed project also includes the renovations of the basement bathrooms. The information
provided indicates that the project will use state funding form the Massachusetts Cultural Council and Housing and
Economic Development.
Review of the MHC's Inventory of Historic and Archaeological Assets of the Commonwealth indicates that The
Academy of Music Theatre 274 Main Street (NTH.794) is listed in the National Register of Historic Places as a
contributing element of the Northampton Downtown Historic District (NTH.A).
After review ofMHC's files and the information submitted, MHC has determined that the proposed project will have
"no adverse effect" (950 CMR 7 l .07(2)(b )(2)) on the Academy of Music Theatre.
The proposed project is also subject to review by MHC in accordance with the preservation restriction (M.G.L. Chapter
\ &4, sections 3 \-33) held by the MHC. The active preservation restriction agreement entitles the MHC review and
approval authority prior to implementation of any major alterations to the property. The proposed project is hereby a'P'Proved under the terms of the preservation restriction .
"these comments are offered to assist in compliance with terms of the preservation restriction Pleased th . M.G.L. Chapter 9, sections 26-27C (950 CMR 71.00) and the
questions. · 0 no esitate to contact Elizabeth Sherva of my staff if you have any
Sincerely,
\
Brona Simon
State Historic Preservation Officer
Executive Director
Massachusetts Historical Commission
xc: · Anita Walker, MCC
Thomas Douglas, Thomas Douglas Architects
220 Morrissey Boulevard, Boston, Massachus ett s 02 12 5
(617) 727-8470 • Fax : (61 7) 727-5128
www.sec.state .ma . us /mhc
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