Crafts Ave_4.17.24.pdfApril 17, 2024
Community Preservation Committee
210 Main Street Northampton, MA 01060 RE: Valley CDC – Crafts Avenue Project
Dear Honorable Members: This letter is to express my support for the Valley CDC’s funding request for the Crafts Avenue
development project. As a Valley CDC board member and longtime resident of
Northampton/Florence, I believe that it is vital for our communities that we continue to increase
innovative, affordable, and diverse housing opportunities.
The $200,000 request of the CPA represents only 1% of the total project cost but, goes far in
demonstrating local support for this vital project, support that is often a requirement when
applying for State funding.
Furthermore, the CPA’s contribution will not only help address the challenges of developing the
project on this unique site and meeting Passive Housing standards, 20 to 30 units will also be set
aside for folks coming out of homelessness – a vital need in our community.
I respectfully ask that the Community Preservation Committee support this funding request to
help the Valley CDC bring this much needed project to fruition.
Sincerely,
Kristen Mara
Board Member, Valley Community Development