Historic Northampton CPA Spring 2022 Grant Application Shepherd Barn.pdfCOMMUNITY PRESERVATION
PROJECT APPLICATION COVER SHEET
I: Project Information : Project Title: Proposal for the Preservation, Restoration,Renovation, and Reopening of the Shepherd Barn
Project Summary: This is our fourth and final grant request for the preservation, restoration, renovation, and reopening of the 1805 Shepherd Barn. We request a total of $173,000 for these items: 1. a new foundation to stabilize the structure; 2. replacement of selected portions of the exterior siding; 3. new flooring from locally sourced hemlock; 4. electrical upgrade and lighting; 5. ventilation for artifact preservation; 6. reconstruction of the ell with timber frame, saving original feature and 7. artifact mounts and installation.
Estimated start date: Spring 2022 Estimated completion date: Spring 2023
CPA Program Area (check all that apply):
Open Space Community Housing
II: Applicant/Developer Information Contact Person and or/primary applicant: directors
Property Owner (if applicable):
X Historic Preservation X Recreation
Laurie Sanders & Elizabeth M. Sharpe, co-
Organization (if applicable): Historic Northampton
Mailing Address: 46 Bridge Street, Northampton, MA 01060
Daytime phone#: 413-584-6011 I Fax#:
E-mail address & Website: emsharpe@historicnorthampton.orgwww.historicnorthampton.orq
III: Budget Summary
Total budget for project: $243,769
CPA funding request: $173,000
CPA request as percentage of total budget: 71 %
Applicant's Signature: {4,<v,.,..,c. ,r ),.., Ju.,.,,.-
Date Submitted: February 5, 2022
Historic Northampton Application for Funding
Northampton Community Preservation Committee, February 5, 2022
Proposal for the Preservation, Restoration, Renovation,
and Reopening of the Shepherd Barn
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Project Narrative 1
Project Location 1
Community Preservation Criteria 1
Project Summary 1
Project Background 1
Project Description 2
Funding Requests and Budget 3
Population Served 5
Long-Term Success and Maintenance 5
Community Need and Service 5
Community Involvement 6
Community Support 6
Project Timeline 6
Feasibility 8
About Historic Northampton 9
Appendices: 10
Appendix 1: Proposal Budget and Total Project Budget
Appendix 2: Design Plans and Photographs
Appendix 3: List of Contractors
Appendix 4: Project History, 2015 – present
Appendix 5: Updated Project Reports
Appendix 6: Letters of Support
Appendix 7: Form B Inventory Sheet, Deed and Map
Appendix 8: Zoning
Historic Northampton
Proposal for the Preservation, Restoration, Renovation, and Reopening
of the Shepherd Barn
Project Location
The Shepherd Barn is located at the rear of 66 Bridge Street (Parcel ID: 32A-176-001) in
Northampton, and is one of four buildings on Historic Northampton’s campus, which include 46, 58 and 66 Bridge Street.
Community Preservation Criteria
This project meets the criteria for historic preservation and contributes to passive recreational opportunities.
Project Summary
This is our fourth and final grant request for the preservation, restoration, renovation, and reopening of the 1805 Shepherd Barn. We request a total of $173,000 for these remaining items:
1. New foundation to stabilize structure 2. Replacement of selected portions of exterior siding
3. New flooring from locally sourced hemlock 4. Electrical upgrade and lighting 5. Ventilation for artifact preservation 6. Reconstruction of ell with timber frame, saving original feature 7. Artifact mounts and installation
All the activities in this proposal will occur in 2022, with a grand reopening of the barn and
celebration in Spring 2023. During the 2023 summer season, we will offer a full schedule of programs in the barn.
Background
The Shepherd Barn is a work of superb craftsmanship and utility. The timber frame surrounds a
soaring interior space with scribe-marked, hand-hewn beams. Its frame dates to 1805, making it
perhaps the oldest extant outbuilding in the center of Northampton. For at least seventy years, beginning in the mid-19th century, the building was used as a horse and carriage barn by the Shepherd family, and the name of one of the horses is still visible on one of the horse stalls.
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There has been an ell on the southeast corner of the building since the 1850s; it was later used as
a workshop and as a garage. The current ell was reconstructed in the late 19th or early 20th century.
After the property’s transfer to Historic Northampton in the 1970s, the barn was used as an exhibit space, blacksmith studio, and for large object storage, while the ell was rented as a book bindery and later, in the 1980s, converted into a gift shop for Historic Northampton. The entire
barn and ell were closed to the public more than a decade ago.
Project Description
The goal of the 1805 Shepherd Barn project is to preserve and restore the building’s historical integrity and maximize its usefulness and flexibility for Historic Northampton and the broader Northampton community.
Through our investigation, funded by feasibility and technical assistance grants (Mass Cultural Council and CPA), we determined that to reopen the building to the public we needed to reconstruct the ell and add two ADA bathrooms and a small kitchen area. In addition, to make the best use of the barn space, we needed to build a two-room, shed-style addition on the rear of the building to provide a dressing room for performers and storage area. The addition will be
timber-framed and its design is historically consistent with 19th-century barns.
With these modifications and improvements, the Shepherd barn will serve multiple purposes:
1. With its timber-frame construction and history, the barn itself will become a valuable
teaching tool.
2. It will become an exhibit space for the museum's 19th- and 20th-century shop signs,
weathervanes, farm tools, sleighs, and sleds.
3. It will function as a one-of-a-kind performance venue for creative programming related to
history, including music, theatre, dance, poetry readings, storytelling, and visual arts.
4. It will expand our programming capacity by creating a space for hands-on workshops
(especially messy activities) that cannot take place in our main gallery.
5. With its bathrooms and water fountain, it will be an asset for all outdoor events on our
grounds and for Bridge Street School’s Sprouts gardening program.
6. It will become a rentable, affordable space for public and private meetings and events,
which will help defray maintenance and operation costs.
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Funding Request and Budget
We are requesting $173,000 for the seven items listed below.
1. Full concrete foundation, concrete slab floor, and brick masonry exterior $ 70,000
2. Replacement of portions of exterior clapboard siding 20,000
3. New barn flooring 2,500
4. Upgrade electrical and new lighting 28,000
5. Ventilation for artifact preservation and comfort 2,500
6. Reconstruction of ell with timber frame and saving original feature 30,000
7. Artifact mounts and installation 20,000
Total $ 173,000
1. Full concrete foundation, concrete slab floor, and brick masonry exterior. Determining
how to design the foundation is the piece of this project that took the most time to figure out. We
consulted with many experts about how to put the historic barn (1,064 square feet) on a firm
foundation, prevent moisture and wildlife from entering, elevate it above grade, and make it
accessible, all without compromising its historical integrity. In the process we considered four
different options: a dry-laid stone foundation, a foundation with diamond piers at the corners, a
partial foundation (Alaskan slab), and the design we ultimately chose: a full (4’deep) concrete
perimeter foundation with a concrete slab floor. As both the excavator and historic building
architect said (separately): “Put your historic treasure on the firmest foundation possible.” The
conservator and historic preservationist concurred. Because the barn will need to be jacked up
and sits very close to a property line and because the foundation will be installed below an
existing historic building, the cost is higher than new construction. ($70,000 requested)
2. Replacement of portions of exterior clapboard siding. All the clapboards and sheathing
from ground level to approximately four feet up on the barn’s siding need to be removed to
access and repair the footings of the existing timber posts. Many of the lowest clapboards are
already damaged from moisture and cannot be salvaged. The new clapboards will be oil-primed,
clear cedar, with the painting done by volunteers and professionals. ($20,000 requested)
3. New barn flooring. As part of the restoration work, all of the existing floorboards had to be
removed. None of the floors were original (the wood had all been cut with a circular saw), and
the horse stalls had a dirt floor. As part of this project, a new wood plank floor will be installed
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on top of sleepers that sit on the newly poured concrete slab. The flooring will be a double-layer
of 1” locally sourced hemlock, which will provide better conditions for dancers, improve
acoustics, meet ADA standards, and be historically consistent. The installation will be overseen
by Alicia Spence, who will coordinate a team of volunteers. ($2,500 requested)
4. Upgrade electrical and new lighting. The existing electrical distribution box and wiring
system were installed 30+ years ago, and our electrician recommended a full upgrade for safety
and to meet our electrical needs. As designed, the new system will provide dramatic LED
lighting for the artifacts on display. Task lighting and fixtures for theater lighting will also be
installed. All of the exterior lighting will be Dark Sky compliant. A new security system will
protect the building and also allow outside groups to use the bathrooms and kitchenette when
Historic Northampton is closed. ($28,000 requested)
5. Ventilation for artifact preservation and comfort. Although artifacts are not damaged by
cold temperatures, heat is damaging. For this reason, ventilation will be installed to remove the
hottest air so that artifacts hung in the upper reaches of the spaces aren’t exposed to too much
heat. It is also important to keep the air moving, especially if it is high in humidity. The fans will
improve artifact preservation over a long period and they will also make the space more
comfortable for visitors during the summer. ($2,500 requested)
6. Reconstruction of ell with timber frame and saving original feature. The ell was renovated
in the 1980s, but one we removed the flooring, walls, and ceiling last fall, it was obvious that the
building’s skeleton was in terrible condition. It was also clear that it had been re-built in the late
1800s or early 20th century, and although the stick frame was functional, it was not high quality.
It was, after all, used for storage. Our team (architect, contractors, and historic preservationist)
all agreed it was more cost efficient and practical to demolish the existing building and start new.
One feature–an old wooden loft door–has been saved and will be reincorporated. Timber framer
Alicia Spence is excited to build the new ell, on the same footprint, as a timber frame structure.
She will work with volunteers to construct the timber-frame and at a special community event,
volunteers will help raise the building in the old-time tradition of a barn raising. ($30,000
requested)
7. Artifact mounts and installation. Each of the 50 large artifacts will require a custom mount.
For the historic shop signs, our conservator recommended mounting each sign on a specially
made “shelf” and then adding brackets to attach the top of the sign to the wall. Three additional
large objects (1850s sleigh, 1960s go-cart, and 19th century homemade sled) will require special
mounts and a lift for the installer to secure them into position in the loft. ($20,000 requested)
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Population Served
The preservation and restoration of the Shepherd Barn will serve the people of Northampton and beyond. As a unique, multipurpose space, the barn offers a whole new way to expand our programs and extend our reach into the community by giving us the capacity to partner with other organizations, and to collaborate on meetings, workshops, and programs held in the barn.
In order to reveal the barn’s timber-frame structure, the building will remain uninsulated and be
open from late-April to mid-October. During these months, it will be open during museum hours for visitors to see the exhibits and the restrooms will be available when we (or other groups) host outdoor public programs (concerts, readings) on our grounds.
The completed project will give Northampton a new historical exhibit and an intimate "barn" performance space, full of local history and with excellent acoustics. Everyone who has toured
the barn sees its potential and is excited to make art and history come alive in this novel space. We fully expect that attending a performance or program at “The Barn” will become one of the “Top Things to Do” in Northampton and contribute to the City’s regional and national reputation as a vibrant, creative place.
Long-term Success and Maintenance
We plan to keep the barn open to the public as a permanent exhibit and will develop a full schedule of seasonal events, workshops, and performances specifically to be held in the barn. We are confident that the barn will become a venue of significance and an attraction for residents and visitors to better understand the City’s rich history.
Much of the cost of restoration and renovation of the barn is principally due to long deferred
maintenance. Going forward, we expect that the building will largely pay for its own upkeep through programming and rental fees. We now allocate 2% of the estimated value of our buildings (3 houses and the barn) into our annual budget for routine building maintenance.
Community Need and Service
The restoration, and stabilization of the barn is an important element in the preservation of
Northampton’s history and the display of Northampton artifacts–through their size, colors, and
stories they tell--will transform and energize the experience of every visitor to the barn. Furthermore, being in the barn will increase our visitors’ sense of place and the interpretive panels and models will deepen their understanding of the interrelationships between human activities and the natural world.
We believe that the barn project is key to Historic Northampton’s long-term success as a
community-centered and financially stable organization. We also believe that preserving, restoring, renovating, and reopening the barn will benefit downtown businesses and cultural organizations by attracting more visitors to the area.
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Community Involvement
There will be multiple opportunities for community involvement. Northampton timber framer Alicia Spence has worked on dozens of timber frame projects around the world that involve volunteers. As part of this project, she will host two public workshops on timber framing and coordinate volunteers to help build the timber frame structures for the ell and shed-style addition. When the frames are ready, we will hold a special event and, in historic tradition, Spence and
volunteers will raise the timber frame buildings into place! This kind of grassroots creativity and community engagement is part of what attracts people to Historic Northampton.
There will also be opportunities for volunteers to help with painting and landscaping. And of course, there will be plenty of opportunities for businesses and individuals to contribute financially.
Community Support
During the last five years, our donor base has grown to more than 600 individuals, households, and businesses, and we now have more than 100 volunteers donate their time to help with collections, research, grounds work, and maintenance.
The barn project has particularly captured people’s enthusiasm. It has the support of
Northampton’s Historical Commission, our neighbors in Ward 3, artists, musicians, many other non-profits, parents of Bridge Street School students, and residents throughout Northampton. Many long-time residents from an agricultural background are especially interested in seeing their lives represented.
In addition to the letters of support included here, many other individuals have voiced their
support, Senator Jo Comerford, Representative Lindsay Sabadosa, former Mayor David Narkewicz, Ward 3 Councilor Jim Nash, and Shepherd Holcombe (descendant of the Shepherd family), and many others.
Project Timeline
January 2022
● Artifact conservation underway
● Artifact selection for exhibit complete ● Archaeological permit request submitted to MA Historical Commission
February ● Final stamped plans for structural work by structural engineers
● Final meetings with Institute for Human Centered Design for accessibility
● Planking for hemlock wood floor secured (milled, drying) ● White oak timbers for sills and structural repairs ordered; timbers for new framing ordered at mill
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March
● Architectural plans finalized and stamped, including plumbing, ventilation, and timber frame ● Landscape and drainage plans finalized ● Exhibit design layout completed ● Lighting design for artifacts begins; overall electrical layout in progress
● Archaeological survey work (if weather conditions allow) commences
April ● Archeological survey investigation completed, and report submitted ● Final plans for electrical layout and lighting design developed and approved ● Bids solicited for interior work from subcontractors on “ell” and “shed-style” additions
May ● Selection of contractor for interior work on ell and shed-style addition ● Permits secured for building, electrical and plumbing ● Installation of construction fencing ● Demolition of existing ell
● Removal of exterior clapboard and sheathing for access to framing ● Eave plate repaired; jacking up of building by timber framer ● Site prep begins, with loam stored on site for later reuse and existing Goshen stone patio taken and stored on palettes for possible re-use ● Excavation and installation of concrete foundation and concrete slabs, including proper
vapor barriers, gravel, insulation foam (as per specification) ● Installation of French drains and subsurface infiltration basin; backfilling to foundation ● Public program on archaeological work by lead archaeologists
June ● Repairs to timber frame begin (posts, beams, studs)
● Installation of new wooden sills and setting of barn core on new foundation ● Brick veneer on exterior concrete installed by mason ● Timber frame construction for ell and shed-style additions, in part with volunteers ● Timber framing workshops (2) for public ● Final selection and purchase of fixtures for restrooms and kitchenette/prep room
July
● Raising of timber frame new construction and special celebration ● Installation of roofs on ell and shed and outer walls, with clapboards ● Electrical installation commences ● Installation of plumbing and trim out of ell and shed-style addition
● Replacement of sheathing and exterior clapboards of main barn
● Construction and installation of new barn doors
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August
● Construction related activities proceed; restrooms operational ● Repair and replacement of existing windows in barn ● Repair of slate roof and installation of new gutters ● Installation of security system ● Final tie into drainage system
● Landscaping work to shift school gardens to perimeter
September ● Exterior painting ● Final text for interpretive panels ● Final installation of lighting for displays
● Installation of patio ● Landscaping activities proceed with volunteer support
October ● Installation of artifacts ● Installation of benches using salvaged wood from original barn
● Purchase of chairs, theater lights ● Certificate of occupancy
Winter 2022/23 ● Exhibit panels produced ● Program development and scheduling
Spring 2023 ● Final exhibits installed ● Opening
Feasibility
Through our 2021 Feasibility and Technical Assistance grant, we have determined: the best
methods for restoration and construction; a logical sequence; a realistic timetable; the right team; and reliable costs to complete the entire project. We now have a solution and architectural plans, an exhibit design, and an enthusiastic team of technical experts and contractors to complete the project.
We have had conversations with Northampton Building Inspector John Flagg to ensure Code
Compliance (50-70 person capacity, full foundation, number of bathrooms) and with Assistant City Planner Carolyn Misch regarding set-backs and the construction of the new shed-style addition. Now that the architectural plans are nearly complete, they will be sent to the planner to determine if an application to the ZBA is required. Based on the presence of a pre-existing
structure (garden shed) that is located even closer to the property line than the proposed shed-
style addition, she did not think the new construction would trigger a permit application.
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About Historic Northampton
Historic Northampton is a community-centered museum and education center. Our mission is to collect and preserve Northampton's past and to explore the town's history, its human-made landscape, and the natural world that underlies it. Located on two park-like acres near downtown, we maintain four historic buildings: Parsons House (1719); Damon House (1813);
Shepherd Barn (1805); and Shepherd House (1796), which we rent to Mass Humanities for offices. We hold 40,000 objects, including a nationally significant costume collection, and a well-used local history archive. Our grounds are a beloved neighborhood greenspace.
Typically, we host exhibits and programs in our newly renovated gallery. We offer 50 programs each year (5,000 served) for all ages. School programs, walking tours, and multi-artist
performances take place on site; in neighborhoods, cemeteries, and conservation areas; and at local venues (e.g. 33 Hawley Street). As a small museum, our hallmark is flexibility, variety, creativity, and inclusiveness, and we readily share our time and expertise. In the last few years, we have researched and programmed around the lives of those previously erased from the historical narrative: enslaved persons, indigenous people, and immigrants.
Historic Northampton
Proposal for the Preservation, Restoration, Renovation,
and Reopening of the Shepherd Barn
Appendix 1: Proposal Budget and Total Project Budget
Appendix 2: Design Plans and Photographs
Appendix 3: List of Contractors
Appendix 4: Project History, 2015 – present
Appendix 5: Updated Project Reports
Addendum Report on the Shepherd Barn
by Jack A. Sobon, Architect, January 3, 2022
Mass Cultural Council Feasibility Report
Appendix 6: Letters of Support
Appendix 7: Form B Inventory Sheet, Property Deed and Map
Appendix 8: Zoning
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APPENDICES
Historic Northampton Application for Funding
Northampton Community Preservation Committee
February 5, 2022
Proposal for the Preservation, Restoration, Renovation,
and Reopening of the Shepherd Barn
Appendix 1: Proposal Budget and Total Project Budget
CPA PROJECT BUDGET 2022
Task HN Share CPA Request Source of Cost
1. Site prep for foundation, full concrete foundation and poured concrete floors $10,000 $70,000
Estimate (not to exceed) from
Dave Loven Excavating & Elite Concrete & Paving 2. New exterior siding of main barn (pre-painted oil, clear cedar clapboard) 5,000 20,000 Estimate from rk Miles
3. Locally-sourced hemlock plank flooring, sleepers plus installation in main barn (with help of volunteers) 2,500 Estimate from David Lashway, Highland Lumber; Alicia Spence 4. Fans for ventilation & air circulation in main barn 30,000 2,500 Internet pricing
5. Full upgrade of electrical system, lighting design for artifacts & installation (labor & materials) for entire project 25,769 28,000 Estimate from Wade Clement; electrician & lighting designer
6. Demo & reconstruction of timber-frame, fully accessible ell (does not include bathrooms) 30,000 Estimates from contractors & subs (Douglas Thayer, Alicia
Spence, DA Sullivan)
7. Construction & installation of artifact mounts 20,000 Estimates by Mike Hanke, Exhibit Designer & HN
TOTALS $70,769 $173,000
Percent Contribution 29% 71%
TOTAL PROJECT BUDGET AS OF 2-4-2022 SHEPHERD BARN RESTORATION, RENOVATION & REOPENING
Activity Historic Northampton CPA REQUEST 2021+ 2022 CPA Awards
2020 CPA Award Amount Source of Estimate/Pricing
City permits 3,000 3,000 Estimate Douglas Thayer
Assessment of building's history & architectural drawings 5,000 5,000 Completed
Removal, cleaning, measuring, accession and proper storage of all artifacts 35,813 35,813 Completed
Feasibility & technical study (architects,
engineers, historic preservationist, surveyor, contractors) 38,534 13,000 51,534 Completed
Archaeology survey 3,749 3721 7,470 Contract
Scaffolding/fork lift rental 5,000 5,000 Estimate from Alicia Spence
Exterior demo (siding, rotten timbers, doors & repair of eave plate (NW corner) 9,200 9,200 Estimate from Douglas Thayer & Alicia Spence Construction fencing 500 500 Donation by Hastie Fence; secured
Site prep for foundation, full concrete
foundation and poured concrete floors 70,000 10,000 80,000 Estimate (not to exceed) from Dave Loven
Excavating & Elite Concrete & Paving
Brick masonry for facing exterior of above-ground foundation 8,000 8,000 Estimate from Chicopee Mason Supplies
Structural repairs to main barn timbers and installation of white oak sills (labor & materials) 40,200 40,200 Estimate from Alicia Spence
New doors & windows 8,000 8,000 Estimate from Douglas Thayer
New exterior siding of main barn (pre-painted oil, clear cedar clapboard) 10,000 20,000 30,000 Estimate from rk Miles
Locally-sourced hemlock plank flooring,
sleepers + installation in main barn (with help of volunteers) 5,000 2,500 7,500 Estimate from David Lashway, Highland Lumber; Alicia Spence
Fans for ventilation & air circulation in main barn 2,500 2500 Internet pricing
Full upgrade of electrical system, lighting design for artifacts & installation (labor & materials) for entire project 30,000 28,000 12,000 70,000 Estimate from Wade Clement; electrician & lighting designer
Roofing repairs to slate & new 6" gutters 4,000 1,000 5,000 Estimate from Jim Flannery, Peak Performance Roofing
Site prep for drainage & ADA-compliant walkways and patio 10,000 10,000 20,000 Estimate from Dave Loven, Loven Excavating
Demo & reconstruction of timber-frame,
fully accessible ell (does not include bathrooms) 25,769 30,000 55,769 Estimates from contractors & subs (Douglas Thayer, Alicia Spence, DA Sullivan)
2 ADA bathrooms, kitchenette & fixtures 22,500 17,500 40,000 Estimates from Douglas Thayer & DA Sullivan & Sons
Security 3,000 2,400 5,400 Estimate from Brian Hackworth, Industrial Residential Security
Artifact conservation 10,914 31,922 42,836 CPA grant
Construction of artifact mounts 10,000 10,000 Estimate by HN
Artifact installation 10,000 10,000 Estimate from Mike Hanke, Exhibit Designer
Construction of new timber-frame, shed-style addition (dressing room, storage room) 47,000 47,000 Estimates from Douglas Thayer & DA Sullivan & Sons Interpretation panels & models 10,000 10,000 Estimate from Mike Hanke, Exhibit Designer
Painting 20,000 20,000 Estimate from contractor (Northeast Painting) 43% of total project ($20,000)*
Accessible patio (meets entrances at grade)
& walkway to shed-style addition 44,040 44,040 Estimate from landscape architect, Nick
Dines
Installation of accessible, outside water fountain 4,500 4,500 Estimate from architect, Ann Marshall
50-stackable chairs & 2 carts + 5 folding 8'
tables 3,000 3,000 Estimate from Conklin Office Furniture,
Holyoke, MA
Modular stage 3,000 3,000 Estimate by HN
Stair cart/scaffolding for accessing artifacts 800 800 Internet pricing
Audio & theater equipment 10,000 10,000 Estimate by HN
New fence along eastern boundary 9,498 9,498 Quote from Hastie Fence
Garden bed move, tree removal 1,500 1,500 Estimate by HN
New garden shed (timber frame) for Sprouts
and HN use (community build) 10,000 10,000 Estimate by HN
Kitchen supplies 200 200 Estimate by HN
$327,504 $173,000 $44,922 $170,834 $716,260
Contingency (10% of project) 71,626
HN SHARE with contingency (10%) $399,130 51%
CPA TOTAL (2019+ 2021 awards
+ 2022 request)
$385,134 49%
TOTAL PROJECT COST $784,264
This cost summary does not include in-kind staff time or volunteer hours for timber-frame building, barn raising and landscaping.
SOURCES Of FUNDING AMOUNT
CPA Grants Awarded to Shepherd Barn Project (2020-2022) $214,756
Grants & Private Foundations Funds Securied 72,800
Pending Grants (MA Cultural Council, Beveridge Foundation, & private family foundation) 212,500
Pending Private Contributions (Individuals & businesses) 111,208
Total $611,264
Historic Northampton Application for Funding
Northampton Community Preservation Committee
February 5, 2022
Proposal for the Preservation, Restoration, Renovation,
and Reopening of the Shepherd Barn
Appendix 2: Design Plans and Photographs
Plans & Elevations by Ann Marshall & Mike Hanke of Design Division, Inc.
Historic Northampton Barn Artifact Layout Preliminary Elevation
Barn Artifact Display Concept – East Elevation
Shepherd Barn Site Plan
Shepherd Barn 1st and 2nd Floor Plans
Shepherd Barn Plan Details
Shepherd Barn Elevations, North & South
Shepherd Barn Elevations, East & West
Photographs of the Site
Elevation - North
Elevation - South121/4"= 1'-0"3'-0"Elevation - West131/4"= 1'-0"
Elevation - East71/4"= 1'-0"
Plan101/8"= 1'-0"
1 1/4"= 1'-0"
Historic Northampton
Drwg. Title
Project
Project No.
Date
Scale
Drawn By
Drawing No.
Office
HN-01
As Noted
Design Division, Inc.
91 Gray Street
Amherst, MA 01035
04/08/2021
Elevations
Shepherd Barn Artifact Layout
Preliminary
3
A-5
7
A-6
6
A-6
5
A-6
2
A-5
1
A-5
4
A-5
1 2 3 4
16'-1"12'-0 1/2"A
B
C
20'-4"12'-6"
In
Barn Artifact Display Concept HN-01 Historic Northampton: Shepherd Barn
InDDIDDI
DESIGN
DIVISION
02/22/2021
17’-4”
28’-1.5”
Barn Interior East Elevation
Location of former loft
@28’
Sleigh mounted off wall and
from rafters
All signs mounted off of wall
3-dimensional objects
mounted at least 8’0” above
the floor
NEW GARDENING SHEDCONCRETE SLAB WITH THICKENED EDGESHORIZ. WOOD SIDING - 5 1/2", PRIMED & PAINTEDPRICE TIMBER AND STICK FRAME CONSTRUCTIONSHED ROOF - 4:12 - W/FLAT SEAM GALVANIZED ROOFSLIDING BARN DOORS W/ GALVANIZED HARDWAREBOT. OF SHED ROOF IS AT 8'-0"
20' - 0"6' - 0"NEW STONE PATIO2 1/2"-3" BLUESTONE 1" HIGH SILICA BASED SAND6-8" COMPACTED CRUSHED STONETENSILE FABRIC
NEW STANDING SEAM GALVANIZEDMETAL ROOF
REPLACE GUTTERS AND
DOWNSPOUTS W/HALF-ROUNDGALVANIZED GUTTERS ANDBRACKETS E & W SIDES
REPLACE GUTTERS AND
DOWNSPOUTS ON BARN W/6" HALF-ROUND GALVANIZED GUTTERS ANDBRACKETS N & S SIDES
DOWNSPOUTS ON WEST SIDE OFBARN ONLY TO HOOK INTO NEWDRAINAGE SYSTEM
ADDITIONPRICE STANDING SEAM & CORRUGATED GALVANIZED ROOFHALF-ROUND GALVANIZED GUTTERS AND DOWNSPOUTSNORTH SIDE ONLY - SEE A-E & A-4 FOR ADDITIONAL NOTES.
37' - 4 1/2"13' - 10"Scale
Project number
Date
Drawn by
Checked by
1/16" = 1'-0"
A-1
SITE PLAN
NORTHAMPTON
HISTORIC
1-13-22
Author
1/16" = 1'-0"1 Site
GFI
GFI
GFI
GFI
EXISTING STRUCTURETO REMAIN AND BEREPAIRED WHEREREQUIRED FOR STABILITY
SECOND FLOOR STRUCTURETO REMAIN W/FLOOR BOARDSREMOVED IN SHADED AREA
A-43
3
A-5
7
A-6
5
A-6
2
A-5
1
A-5
1
A-6
A-3
A-3
2
3
EXISTING BARN - TO
BECOME A MULTI-PURPOSE
& EXHIBIT SPACE
2
A-2.6
PORTION OF ORIGINAL STALL TO BE MOVED AGAINST THIS WALL FOR DISPLAY
PREP
AREA
GENDER
NEUTRAL
WC
wh3' - 6"GENDER
NEUTRAL
WC
EXISTING STRUCTURE TO REMAIN - TYP, -FOLLOW STRUCTURAL DRAWINGS FOR ALL STRUCTURAL REPAIRS
DASHED LINE INDICATES BALCONY STRUCTURE ABOVE
EXISTING BARN DOORS TO BE RE-BUILT TO MATCH ORIGINAL
LEFT DOOR MUST HAVE A 180 DEGREE SWING - BOTH DOORS MUST BE ABLE TO FIX IN THE OPEN POSITION FOR EVENTS
GREEN
ROOM
A-2.6
1
A-2.51
A-2.5
2
5 A-2.59
6
73
A-2.6
8
9 7
A-2.6 -
4
A-2.6 5
STORAGE
ROOM
4 8
3
6
-
EXISTING DOOR TO BE RE-BUILT TO MATCH ORIGINAL - DOOR MUST BE ABLE TO FIX IN THE OPEN POSITION FOR EVENTS
GALVANIZED DOWNSPOUT TO HOOK INTONEW DRAINAGE SYSTEM
GALVANIZED DOWNSPOUT TO HOOK INTONEW DRAINAGE SYSTEM
EXISTING DOOR TO BE REPAIRED AS REQUIRED -DOOR MUST BE ABLE TO FIX IN THE OPEN POSITION FOR EVENTS
2 1/2" - 3" BLUSTONE PAD SET ON6-8" CONPACTED CRUSHED STONE
4' - 0"V.I.V.4' - 4"NEW LOCKABLE POCKET DOOR W/ADACOMPATIBLE HARDWARE
NEW STONE PATIO
"BIG ASS" FAN WHERE INDICATED - SEE SECTION FOR HEIGHT
NEW 6" X 1 3/8" THICK HEMLOCK FLOORING
SET ON 2 X 4 COMPOSITE SLEEPERS SPACED 2'- 2'-6" OC
SET ON 6-8" COMPACTED STONE
SET ON A 10 MIL VAPOR BARRIER
TREAT ALL WOOD SURFACES PRIOR TO INSTALLATION W/BORIC ACID & OIL SEALANT
BARN AND "L" BUILDING
LENGTH RUNS E/W
DASHED LINE REPRESENTS TIMBER-FRAME STRUCTURE W/EXTERIORSHEATHING AND RE-PURPOSED HORIZONTAL WOOD SIDING - VARIOUS WIDTHS TO MATCH THE BARN
ATTACH BLACK-OUT FRIT ON WINDOW
EXISTING BARN DOOR TO BE RE-BUILT TO MATCH ORIGINAL
POCKET BETWEEN BARN AND NEW ADDITIONTO HOUSE DOOR WHEN OPEN
NEW "ELL" BUILDING
BUILT IN SAME LOCATION AS EXISTING TO BE DEMOLISHED
FIN. FL. ELEV. 0'-8" (95.75)
NEW ADDITION
SEE 1/A2.6 FOR ADDITIONAL
"ELL" BUILDING NOTES
6' - 3 3/8"SEE 1/A2.5 FOR ADDITIONAL
BARN ADDITION NOTES
PROVIDE ELECTRICAL UPGRADE FOR GENERAL LIGHTING, THEATER LIGHTING,EXHIBIT LIGHTING, FANS, EMERGENCY SYSTEMS ANDPOWER OUTLETS AS PER CODE
PROVIDE ALL NEW FIXTURES FOR SAME
NEW ELECTRICAL PANELW/SALVAGED WOOD COVER
10
CONCRETE SLAB
V.I.F.
11' - 11 3/4"12' - 6"V.I.F.
11' - 11 1/4"13' - 4"13' - 6"37' - 3"13' - 4 3/4"NEW LOCKABLE BARN DOORS TO MATCH ORIGINAL BARN DOORS ON SOUTH SIDE
Scale
Project number
Date
Drawn by
Checked by
1/4" = 1'-0"
A-2
1ST & 2ND FLOOR FL
PLANS
NORTHAMPTON
HISTORIC
1-13-22
Author
1/4" = 1'-0"2 T. O. BEAM
1/4" = 1'-0"1 LEVEL 1
GFI
7
A-6
2
A-2.6
PREPSPACE
GENDERNEUTRALBATHRM.
A-2.6
8
9 7
--
A-2.6 -
4
A-2.6 5
3
6
DROP-DOWN BABY CHANGING - KOALACARE KB200-BOTHBATHROOMS
34" H COUNTER - SLANTED SKIRT UNDERNEATH
8" DEEP X 32" 16 GA ST STL SINK
ADA COMPLIANT SINGLE STEMFAUCET W/SPRAY
15 1/2" DEEP OVERHEAD WOOD CABINETS PTD.
PRICE BOTH LAMINATE & SOLID SURFACE COUNTERFOR CONSIDERATION
STL HI/LOW ADA-COMPLIANT EXTERIOR WATER FOUNTAIN W/BOTTLE FILLER IN BLACK
42" & 36" GRAB BARS
WALL-HUNG COMMERCIAL GRADE TOILET
PORCELAIN SINK - ADACOMPLIANT W/WRISTCONTROLS
WALL MTD. ST STL SOAP DISPENSER &PAPER TOWELDISPENSER
42" CLEAR WIDTH FOR SOLID WOOD FLAT PANEL SLIDING POCKET DOOR-W/3 COATS POLY
10
RECESSED LED ADJUSTABLE LIGHTSWHERE IND. - MOTIONSENSOR
34" H WOOD STORAGECABINET, PTD.
POLISHED CONCRETE FLOOR
6' - 0 5/8"6' - 0 5/8"1' - 3 5/8"
1' - 6"21' - 6"13' - 9"2' - 8"4' - 5 1/4"PROVIDE 2" RIGID INSULATION IN WALLAGAINST EXISTING BARN SHEATHING
CRUSHED STONE TYP. @BASE OF "ELL" AND BARN @ PATIO7' - 9 1/2"3' - 0"8' - 5 1/8"1/2" GREENBOARD, PAINTED W/SATINPAINT
SEE PLAN FOR
TYP. NOTES
WALL TILE ON 1/2" BACKER BOARD
3' - 4"9"2' - 1"6"3' - 0"2' - 0"
SEE PLAN &
7/A2.6 FOR
TYP. NOTES
ADACOMPLIANTMIRROR
LIGH OVERMIRROR -MOTION SENS.
ADACOMPLIANTSINK
SEE PLAN &
7, 8/A2.6 FOR
TYP. NOTES
COAT HOOKS
4' - 0"1' - 6"BATHROOMHALLWAY
8"
SEE 3/A2.6 FOR TYP.
NOTES
TOP OF BATHROOMCEILING FOR DISPLAY
9" HIGH WOOD BASEBOARD, PTD.2' - 9 1/2"1' - 6"2' - 10"7"2' - 3"8"9"6"7' - 1 1/2"SEE 3, 4 & 6/A2.6 FOR TYP.
NOTES
5/8" GYP BD. WALL, PTD.
5 1/2"" WOOD BASEBOARD, PTD.
PLYWOOD & LAMINATE OVERHD.CABINET - PTD.
LED UNDERCAB.LIGHT
LAMINATE BACKSPLASH &COUNTER
PLYWOOD & LAMINATE UNDERCARRIAGECABINET - PTD.
EXIT SIGN
7' - 1 1/2"9' - 0"8"FRIDGE
5 1/2"2' - 4 1/2"SEE 3/A2.6 FOR TYP.
NOTES
WOOD SHELF AND TRIMMADE FROM SALVAGED WOOD
WROUGHT-IRON HOOKS BELOW
WOOD CABINET AND TOP, PTD.
WOOD SIDING W/OIL FINISH, TYP.8' - 6 1/2"SEE PLAN &
7, 8/A2.6 FOR
TYP. NOTES
BABY-CHANGINGSTATION
4' - 0"Scale
Project number
Date
Drawn by
Checked by
3/8" = 1'-0"
A-2.6
PLAN DETAILS, INT.
ELEV. & SECTIONS
NORTHAMPTON
HISTORIC
1-13-22
Author
3/8" = 1'-0"1 "L" PLAN DETAIL
3/8" = 1'-0"7 BATH EAST
3/8" = 1'-0"8 BATH SOUTH
3/8" = 1'-0"9 BATH WEST
3/8" = 1'-0"2 SECTION THRU "L"
3/8" = 1'-0"4 ELEVATION PREP NORTH 3/8" = 1'-0"5 "L" HALL EAST
3/8" = 1'-0"3 "L" PREP AREA SOUTH
3/8" = 1'-0"6 ELEVATION "L" HALL WEST
3/8" = 1'-0"10 BATH NORTH
B. O. STRUC0"NEW FF-8"6' - 3"SEE 1 & 2/A-3 FOR TYPICAL
NOTES
RESTORE HISTORIC DOOR - 10" PANEL AT THE BOTTOM IS CURRENTLY FIXED AND WILL NEED TO BE MADE PART OF THE OPENABLE DOOR - LOCKABLE - CAN BE PUT IN A HOLD-OPEN POSTION
NEW ELEMENTS SHOWN IN
LIGHT GRAY
10"0' - 2"
1'-0"
B. O. STRUC0"NEW FF-8"
0' - 2"
1'-0"
SEE 1 & 2/A-3 FOR TYPICAL
NOTES
NEW ELEMENTS SHOWN IN
LIGHT GRAY
Scale
Project number
Date
Drawn by
Checked by
1/4" = 1'-0"
A-4
E & W ELEVATIONS
NORTHAMPTON
HISTORIC
1-13-22
Author
1/4" = 1'-0"2 ELEVATION - WEST
1/4" = 1'-0"3 ELEVATION - EAST
B. O. STRUC0"
NEW FF-8"
B. O. STRUC0"NEW FF-8"
RAMP 1:20
SEE 2/A-3 FOR TYPICAL
ELEVATION NOTES
NEW ADDITIONS SHOWNIN LIGHT GRAY
ADDITIONPRICE STANDING SEAM & CORRUGATED GALVANIZED ROOFHALF-ROUND GALVANIZED GUTTERS AND DOWNSPOUTS NORTH SIDE ONLY - SEE A-E & A-4 FOR ADDITIONAL NOTES.
REBUILD HISTORIC SLIDING BARN DOOR TO MATCH ORIGINAL -LOCKABLE
GFI OUTLET
LOCATION OF MOTION-ACTIVATED WALL LIGHT
Scale
Project number
Date
Drawn by
Checked by
1/4" = 1'-0"
A-3
N & S ELEVATIONS
NORTHAMPTON
HISTORIC
1-13-22
Author
1/4" = 1'-0"2 ELEVATION - SOUTH
1/4" = 1'-0"3 ELEVATION - NORTH
Historic Northampton Application for Funding
Northampton Community Preservation Committee,
February 5, 2022
Proposal for the Preservation, Restoration, Renovation, and Reopening of the Shepherd Barn
Appendix 3: Contractor List
List of Contractors
Ben Brungraber & Janet Kane Fire Tower Engineered Timber 21 Norman Avenue Delran, NJ 08075
(401)654-4600ben@ftet.com
Alicia Spence Timber Framer 165 Chestnut Street
Florence, MA 01062 (413)530-1612spencealicia@gmail.com
Nicholas T. Dines Landscape Architect Department of Landscape Architecture & Regional Planning, retired University of Massachusetts, Amherst
Amherst, MA 01003 ndines@larp.umass.edu
Douglas Thayer Douglas Thayer Woodworking P.O. Box 60322
Locust Street Florence, MA 01062 (413)530-4785info@douglasthayer.com
Wade Clement
Wade Clement Electric
15 North Road
Westhampton, MA 01027
(413) 530-2654
Design Division, Inc.
Ann Marshall and Michael Hanke
91 Gray Street
Amherst, MA 01062
(413) 549-0510
www.designdivisioninc.com
Dave Loven
Loven Excavating & Construction Inc.
230 Reservoir Road
Westhampton, MA 01027
(413) 527-5184
Historic Northampton Application for Funding
Northampton Community Preservation Committee
February 5, 2022
Proposal for the Preservation, Restoration, Renovation,
and Reopening of the Shepherd Barn
Appendix 4: Project History, 2015-present
APPENDIX 4
Project History, 2015-Present
2015 Assessment of timber frame by Alicia Spence
2016
A dendrochronology study by expert William Flynt dated the barn’s main timbers to 1804, with
construction in 1805, when Thomas Jefferson was president and wolves still roamed Northampton. The
main beans were identified as pitch pine.
Roof slates repaired to stop leaks
2017
Gutters installed to improve drainage
Initial meetings with key contractors held to discuss critical structural repairs
2018
Repaired base of failing post in the SW corner
2019
We applied for a CPA grant to fund structural repairs needed to make the barn sufficiently safe to re-
open it to the public. A more complete renovation, we reasoned, would come later. When the pandemic
came, progress slowed, and we had time to plan for a full restoration.
2020
Using CPA funding, we hired Jack Sobon, an internationally recognized timber frame expert and
architect, to analyze the structure, report on its history, and produce architectural drawings. The biggest
revelation was that the “barn” wasn’t originally built as a barn and that it was moved to our site from
another location in Northampton.
We contracted with Sharon Mehrman to oversee a volunteer team to remove all of the 625 objects from
the barn and to, measure, inventory, and store them. This effort took four months.
With support from another grant, we contracted with Marilyn Kaplan, an architect with expertise in
historic structures, to review the barn. With her, we met with the City’s building inspector and learned
about Building Code issues (e.g. 2 ADA bathrooms required, crowd capacity).
We invited community members, as well as teachers, artists, theater directors, and musicians, into the
barn to gather input and ideas on its future use.
We hired architect Ann Marshall and museum designer Michael Hanke of Design Division, Inc., to
produce building and exhibit plans.
2021
We consulted with technical experts: Fire Tower Engineering (Janet Kane and Ben Brungraber) for
structural engineering of timber-frame buildings; Jack Sobon, architect and timber frame expert for the
history, foundation, and floor; TJ Conway (Dino D’Angelo) for mechanical, electrical and plumbing
engineering; Eric Gradoia (Historic Deerfield) for preservation issues; Alicia Spence for timber frame
repairs; Douglas Thayer and Tom Hallisey for carpentry and general contracting; Wade Clement for
lighting design; Nick Dines for landscape design and drainage; Janice Majewski, an ADA expert from
the Institute for Human Centered Design, for accessibility of all areas.
Holmberg & Howe completed a detailed property survey and Fletcher Sewer & Drain inspected the
existing sewer line to ensure its adequacy for two new ADA-compliant bathrooms in the barn’s ell.
Architect Ann Marshall made working drawings of all the spaces, and Mike Hanke made designs of
artifact exhibits.
Landscape architect Nick Dines drafted a preliminary plan for integrating the interior and exterior of the
buildings (materials, grading, drainage, layout, and plantings).
Conservator Rick Kerschner identified the historic signs and other artifacts that need cleaning or
treatment by outside experts.
Eric Gradoia and Sharon Mehrman identified and labeled the interior components to be removed and/or
saved.
Douglas Thayer and crew removed interior partitions, old bathroom, and interior of ell. Some parts were
salvaged for reuse. During the demolition process, the structure of the ell was revealed to be in extremely
poor condition.
2022
We applied to Mass Cultural Council for Facilities Fund and to the Beveridge Foundation to defray the
costs of the new timber-framed ell and shed-style addition.
Historic Northampton Application for Funding
Northampton Community Preservation Committee
February 5, 2022
Proposal for the Preservation, Restoration, Renovation,
and Reopening of the Shepherd Barn
Appendix 5: Updated Project Reports
Addendum Report on the Shepherd Barn
by Jack A. Sobon, Architect, January 3, 2022
Mass Cultural Council Feasibility Report, 2021
Addendum Report on the
Shepherd Barn
Historic Northampton
66 Bridge Street, Northampton, MA
January 3, 2022
Following the removal of interior walls and flooring, some additional observations were
made. First off, none of the original sill or floor timbers have survived. All have been replaced
with circular sawn material in the late 19th or early 20th century. The exposed walls were
examined more closely for possible door and window locations. The East wall, which has two
mid-height girts replaced as well as the associated studding, remains the only wall that might
have had a large opening or large doors. The stud mortises in the underside of the tie beam
indicate there was most likely a four foot wide door into the higher loft starting two feet North of
the center post. Higher loft doors such as this often had a timber projecting out above them to
attach a pulley block for hoisting goods to and from the loft. It likely sat on the tie beams.
Projecting members tend to cause a decay problem where they pierce the wall and this might be
a reason for the steel plate attached to the side of the gable tie beam. While only the West bay
currently has original loft joists, both lofts were originally the full length of the building.
Combined with the evidence that the loft height girts and all framing below has been replaced on
the East wall, it appears that in its original form, this building’s East gable was the front, facing a
street or yard, and all fenestration was on that face. There was likely a large wagon opening
(with or without doors) under the higher loft and a person door into the area under the lower loft.
Since the East wall is currently the property line and it was never a street or lane, the
structure was likely relocated here from elsewhere, the East wall patched up, and the building
adapted to its more recent carriage barn function with large doors on the North and South walls.
Though no clues were found to indicate the original purpose of the structure, it was probably a
warehouse for storage of lighter commercial goods such as furniture, furs, cooperage, baskets,
brooms, rakes, shovels, trunks, cloth, shoes, hats, leather, tin goods, glass, and stoneware.
Jack A. Sobon
Historic Northampton Application for Funding
Northampton Community Preservation Committee
February 5, 2022
Proposal for the Preservation, Restoration, Renovation,
and Reopening of the Shepherd Barn
Appendix 6: Letters of Support
Debin Bruce
Amy Cahillane
Kathy Couch
Meri Hoverman
Quaverly Rothenberg
Capella Sherwood
Jason Trotta
Forbes Library Trustee & Historic Northampton Volunteer
Executive Director, Downtown Northampton Association
President, Northampton Community Arts Trust
Northampton Resident, Parent, Amateur Musician & Former Event Planner
Musician, Graves Avenue Resident, Board Member of Ward 3 Neighborhood Association & the Bridge Street School Council
Music Educator & Parent of Bridge Street School students
Executive Director, Northampton Community Music Center
Downtown
Northampton
Association
February 1, 2022
Brian Adams, Chair & Members of the
Community Preservation Committee
Planning & Sustainability
City Hall
210 Main Street, Room 11
Northampton, MA 01060
Re: Support for the Final Phase of the Restoration, Renovation and Re-Opening
of Historic Northampton’s Shepherd Barn Project
Dear Members of the Community Preservation Committee,
On behalf of the Downtown Northampton Association (“DNA”), I am writing to express
our full support for Historic Northampton’s request for funding to complete the final
phase of the restoration, renovation and re-opening of the 1805 Shepherd Barn (the
“Barn”). When the work is completed and the Barn is re-opened, all of us at the DNA are
convinced that it will be become a resource of significance, not only for Historic
Northampton, but as a driver of the City’s downtown economy and regional tourism.
During the last three years, I’ve watched as Historic Northampton has taken the time to
pull in dozens of volunteers to help with the project and innumerable members of the
community, from artists and musicians to students, builders and technical experts.
Historic Northampton has listened, gathered input and used those ideas to develop a
phenomenal design that meets multiple objectives. Through the building itself and the
artifacts on display, the Barn will help reveal 300 years of Northampton’s history; as a
fully-accessible building with a downtown location and beautiful grounds, it will be a
perfect place for classes, workshops and meetings; and as an historic, timber-frame
building, it will become a much welcomed, one-of-a-kind, intimate performance venue
for plays, music, poetry readings, dances, and other creative events.
The latest proposal builds on earlier support from the CPA, grants from other
foundations and agencies, and from private individuals. All of this planning and input will
enable Historic Northampton to preserve the Barn (concrete floor and foundation),
engage the community as volunteers in meaningful and tangible ways (building and
raising timber frame structures, help with gardens), draw on local resources (Western
MA hemlock for the floor), and take advantage of the skills of some of the region’s
Downtown Northampton Association * 99 Pleasant Street * Northampton, MA * 01060
(413) 584-1900
expert contractors.
In the last seven years, through its programming, outreach and stewardship, Historic
Northampton has become one of Northampton’s cultural leaders. We love working with
their team and are incredibly excited about all the possibilities that will come with the
Barn. It will be a great resource for students and teachers at Bridge Street School, a
magical venue for local meetings (including the DNA board!), and a seasonal hub for
“Paradise East,” a new district that we believe will attract more visitors and tourists to all
the businesses and cultural organization on the east side of the railroad overpass.
For all these reasons, we urge you to support this project that so beautifully combines
and creatively reimagines history, art, culture, community and the region’s economy.
If the committee has any questions, please feel free to reach out to me directly at (413)
387-5145 or amy@northamptondna.com.
With gratitude,
Amy Cahillane, Executive Director
Downtown Northampton Association
www.northamptondna.com
Downtown Northampton Association * 99 Pleasant Street * Northampton, MA * 01060
(413) 584-1900
POB 366 • Northampton, MA 01061 • www.northamptonartstrust.org
February 2, 2022
Community Preservation Committee
210 Main Street
City Hall
Northampton, MA 01060
RE: Support for Final Phase of the Restoration, Renovation &
Re-Opening of Historic Northampton’s Shepherd Barn Project
Dear Members of the Community Preservation Committee;
On behalf of the Northampton Community Arts Trust and our
33 Hawley Street building partners. A.P.E. Ltd, Northampton
Center for the Arts, and Northampton Open Media, we are
writing to state our enthusiastic support for Historic
Northampton’s request for Community Preservation funds to
defray the remaining costs associated with the final phase of
the restoration, renovation and re-opening of the 1805
Shepherd Barn.
As a long-term partner with Historic Northampton and as a
sister cultural organization, we're excited about the
opportunities for collaboration that the restored and re-opened
barn will bring to Northampton and the region. The barn will
accommodate a wide range of programming and we look
forward to seeing the different kinds of performances and
activities that will take place both inside and outside. New
bathrooms and an artist dressing room will facilitate the
presentation of projects combining history and the arts — in
Keeping art in the heart of Northampton
Board of Directors
Bob Cilman
Michael Cohen Dorothy Nemetz
Stephen Petegorsky
Lisa Thompson
Richard Wagner
Joanna Walker
Kathy Couch, President
Peter Whalen, Treasurer
Al Williams, Clerk
POB 366 • Northampton, MA 01061 • www.northamptonartstrust.org
the barn, on the lawn, and perhaps theater that moves
between our two venues.
As we continue to see the impact of the pandemic on
downtown's economy, we also see the re-opening of the barn
as extremely well-timed, especially because the door of the
barn can be kept wide open onto the pandemic safe patio.
We have collaborated with Historic Northampton ever since we
opened 33 Hawley. We are currently working together to
advocate for ARPA funding on behalf of over 20 of the city's
arts and culture organizations. In addition, our two
organizations are part of an initiative to create a new district
(Paradise East) to attract more visitors to the businesses and
cultural organizations on the other side of the RR overpass,
including improved safety and lighting.
For all these reasons, we urge you to support this project,
which will preserve, restore, and reinvigorate one of the City's
oldest outbuildings. We fully support this proposal which will
help us all reimagine history and the arts and give us a deeper
sense of place.
Sincerely,
Kathy Couch
President, Northampton Community Arts Trust
167 South St.
Northampton, MA 01060
February 2, 2022
Community Preservation Committee
Northampton City Hall
210 Main Street
Northampton, MA 01060
Re: Historic Northampton Shepherd Barn Renovation
To the Members of the Community Preservation Committee,
I am writing to share my wholehearted support for the Historic Northampton Shepherd Barn Renovation
Project.
This past fall I learned about the effort to renovate Shepherd Barn for use as a performance and community
space. By chance, I was able to be present for the Bach recording in November and it was an experience I
will cherish for the rest of my life. If you haven’t been there yet, the barn has an incredibly unique setting. Its
position insulates it from the busy street and it feels tucked away almost like a secret garden. The building is
an instrument and sculpture itself, with its beautiful wooden panels and beams, and the way light streams in.
As a resident, parent, and amateur musician who also has a professional background in event planning and
community building, it is clear to me what a wonderful addition the Shepherd Barn will make to our town.
There isn't anything else like it, in scale or style. The beauty of having such a historic building that is both
completely accessible and welcoming for all people, and is wholly of the town will be a tremendous asset to
the community. Performers and audiences of all backgrounds and means can participate and feel included.
The outdoor space helps make it a healthy venue and the proximity to Bridge Street elementary school
provides additional benefits.
Just this morning, I read an article in the Atlantic that I believe sums up the case for support beautifully: “Art
should be a habit, not a luxury. Just like exercise and sleep, engaging with the arts is a necessity for a full
and happy life” (Arthur Brooks). I hope you join in support of this project that bridges history and the arts in
Northampton. It will be an invaluable contribution to the vibrancy of the town and lives of all who live here.
Sincerely yours,
Meri Hoverman
Community Preservation Committee
Northampton City Hall
210 Main Street
Northampton, MA 01060
Re: Historic Northampton Shepherd Barn Renovation
To Whom it may Concern,
16 Sherman Ave
Northampton, MA
01060
February 2, 2022
I am thrilled to offer a letter of enthusiastic support for the Historic Northampton Shepherd Barn
Renovation project.
I am a local classical musician, music educator at the Northampton Community Music Center
and proud parent of 3 creative and energetic Bridge Street School boys. My children always
enjoy school gardening in the garden beds beside the barn. When I learned in November that
the barn was going to be turned into a community multi purpose space with museum exhibits
and space for a concert performance hall, I was so excited. This is exactly what we need in the
neighbourhood for learning and sharing.
It was truly an honour to be a part of the archival music recording that happened in the barn in
November. It brought so much joy to the friends who were listening, to the BSS teachers on
lunchbreak having a picnic at the nearby tables and to all of the performers. The Shepherd Barn
is such a beautiful space and I can tell it will be a warm center that brings the community
together. I am already practicing and planning what I can perform for our friends and
neighbours, and looking forward to many collaborative and multi-generational creative
experiences that we will all be able to share. My boys all play string instruments and over the
holidays they had fun making a covid-safe collaborative music video with a local fiddle player.
However, it will be much more enriching for all when we can play our music together for you in
this new Shepherd Barn!
Thank you very much for your support. I look forward to sharing music and beyond with our
whole community.
Sincerely,
Capella Sherwood
February 2, 2022
Community Preservation Committee
Northampton City Hall
210 Main Street
Northampton, MA 01060
Dear Friends and Neighbors,
I am writing to express my support for the project proposed to the Community
Preservation Committee by Historic Northampton. Their plans to renovate and expand
their facility to include more creative gathering space is beautifully conceived and
demonstrates their desire and commitment to further partner with artists and arts
organizations in our community.
As Executive Director of NCMC, I can see many ways in which our organizations could
work together to utilize this renovated space for public performances and special events.
Historic Northampton serves a unique and vital purpose in our City, and has always been
an inspiring place to visit. Our two organizations have had numerous conversations over
the years, with a shared desire for collaboration and to expand avenues for constituents of
both organizations to engage with one another, and this project provides so much that has
been needed to make that possible.
I hope the committee will give Historic Northampton the support needed to bring their
vision to fruition. Thank you.
Sincerely,
Jason Trotta
Executive Director
Board Of Directors
Mike Doyle, President
Karen Gengler, 1st Vice President
Meredith Hoverman, 2nd Vice President Don Carden, Treasurer
Joe Blumenthal, Clerk
Nancy Cheevers
Dusty Christensen
Allen Davis Kerry Dumbaugh
Mike Ford
Hannia Gonzalez
Richard Moulding
Vikram Sood Alice Swersey
Greg White
Meg Kelsey Wright
Executive Director Jason Trotta
Advisory Council
John Anz
Sally Bagg David Beauvais
Borromeo String Quartet
Elizabeth Chang
William Feinstein, Founder
Roberta Goldman Jonathan Hirsh
Pamela Hunter
Estela Olevsky
Nancy Reeves
Pamela Schwartz Astrid Schween
Deborah Sherr
Matt Stamell
Bill Tuman
William Wallace Jonathan Wright
NORTHAMPTON COMMUNITY MUSIC CENTER
139 South Street, Northampton, MA 01060 • (413) 585-0001 • ncmc.net
Historic Northampton Application for Funding
Northampton Community Preservation Committee
February 5, 2022
Proposal for the Preservation, Restoration, Renovation,
and Reopening of the Shepherd Barn
Appendix 7: Inventory Sheet, Property Deed and Map
Massachusetts Historical Commission Historic Inventory Sheet for
Shepherd House, 66 Bridge Street, Northampton, MA
Property Deed
Map of 46-66 Bridge Street, Northampton, MA
Follow Massachusetts Historical Commission Survey Manual instructions for completing this form.
FORM B − BUILDING
MASSACHUSETTS HISTORICAL COMMISSION
MASSACHUSETTS ARCHIVES BUILDING
220 MORRISSEY BOULEVARD BOSTON, MASSACHUSETTS 02125
Photograph
Topographic or Assessor's Map
Recorded by: Bonnie Parsons
Organization: Pioneer Valley Planning Commission
Date (month / year): March, 2010
Assessor’s Number USGS Quad Area(s) Form Number
32A-176 Easthampton NTH.2071
Town: Northampton
Place: (neighborhood or village)
Address: 66 Bridge Street
Historic Name: Asahel Pomeroy House
Uses: Present: museum
Original: single-family residence
Date of Construction: 1792
Source: Historical Society Records
Style/Form: Federal
Architect/Builder:
Exterior Material:
Foundation: brick and stone
Wall/Trim: clapboards
Roof: slate
Outbuildings/Secondary Structures:
Major Alterations (with dates): west porch added ca.
1900. Portico added ca. 1870.
Condition: good
Moved: no | x | yes | | Date
Acreage: 0.692 acres
Setting: South-facing house is set close to the street, behind a white picket fence.
INVENTORY FORM B CONTINUATION SHEET [NORTHAMPTON] [66 Bridge Street]
MASSACHUSETTS HISTORICAL COMMISSION Area(s) Form No.
220 MORRISSEY BOULEVARD, BOSTON, MASSACHUSETTS 02125
Continuation sheet 1
NTH.2071
_ _ Recommended for listing in the National Register of Historic Places. This property is on the National Register.
If checked, you must attach a completed National Register Criteria Statement form.
Use as much space as necessary to complete the following entries, allowing text to flow onto additional continuation sheets.
ARCHITECTURAL DESCRIPTION:
Describe architectural features. Evaluate the characteristics of this building in terms of other buildings within the community. This is a late Federal style house, two-and-a-half stories in height under a slate-covered, side-gable roof whose eaves make full returns to create pedimented gables. The house is five bays wide and three bays deep and it has two interior chimneys. The
windows have large 6/6 sash with architrave surrounds topped by lintels with crown moldings on the first story. On the second story the window surrounds are architrave without the added lintels. The center door surround is architrave with corner blocks. It has a Gothic Revival style portico with slender corner posts supporting wood tracery at the top, mid-way along the sides and at the bottom of the portico. The door itself of the entry is six-panel and has its own louvered shutters and narrow flanking sidelights. To this main block of the house is attached a one-and-a-half story shed roof addition on the north and a hipped Colonial Revival style porch on the west. The porch rests on Doric columns and has fine, square baluster railings. HISTORICAL NARRATIVE Discuss the history of the building. Explain its associations with local (or state) history. Include uses of the building, and the role(s) the
owners/occupants played within the community. From the Form B of 1976, “The builder of this house was Asahel Pomeroy, a son of General Seth Pomeroy, a famous soldier of the Colonial Wars and one of the heroes of Bunker Hill. The house was given to the Historical Society in the will of Thomas M. Shepard (1856-1923).” BIBLIOGRAPHY and/or REFERENCES
Beers, F. W. County Atlas of Hampshire Massachusetts, New York, 1873. Hales, John G. Plan of the Town or Northampton in the County of Hampshire, 1831.
Miller, D. L. Atlas of the City of Northampton and Town of Easthampton, Hampshire County, Massachusetts, Philadelphia, 1895. Northampton Historical Society. Representative Families of Northampton, “Seth Pomeroy”, lecture by Thomas Monroe Shepard;
file on Shepard House. Walker, George H. and Company. Atlas of Northampton City, Massachusetts, Boston, 1884.
Walling, Henry F. Map of Hampshire County, Massachusetts, New York, 1860.
Locus for Historic Northampton
46, 58 and 66 Bridge Street
Northampton, MA
Shepherd
Barn
Damon House
Parsons House
Shepherd House
page 9
Historic Northampton Application for Funding
Northampton Community Preservation Committee
February 5, 2022
Proposal for the Preservation, Restoration, Renovation,
and Reopening of the Shepherd Barn
Appendix 8: Zoning
ZONING
350 Attachment 9
City of Northampton
Table of Use, Dimensional and Density Regulations
CENTRAL BUSINESS DISTRICT (CB)
Uses Allowed by Right-combinations are
permitted, including accessory uses, structures
and share driveways (unless otherwise noted)
If checked, site plan
approval required by
Planning Board
See § 350-11.1 (new
construction of 2,000+
triggers site plan)
If checked, special
permit approval
required by
designated board
Dimensions
(same for all uses)
Landscaping
(same for
all uses)
Minimum
Parking
(same for
all uses)
Building
Design
(same for
all uses)
All retail, retail marijuana,1 wholesale and business
sales and supply of goods and services
Lot size = 0
Frontage/Width/Depth = 0
Setbacks:
Front = Maximum 5 feet
Side = 0
Rear = 0
Minimum height = 30 feet
Maximum height = 70 feet
The Planning Board may grant a special permit to allow a building to be set farther back or to a lower height if it finds
that a greater setback or lower
height is necessary to preserve
historic buildings or character,
allow for urban pedestrian
malls that encourage street-
level activity, or that proposed
construction is a minor
addition to an existing
building. (See diagram.)
Landscaping and pedestrian
malls or plazas shall be
constructed between the
building and the front lot line,
and no parking is permitted in
this area. In the CBD, these
mall and plaza areas qualify as
open space.
Open space: see landscape/ screening
Site/Parking lot
landscaping: See
§ 350-8.9 for
additional land-
scaping
A 30-foot-wide
buffer strip shall be
planted along the
boundary with any
residentially zoned
lot. It shall contain a
screen of plantings ofvertical habit in the center of the strip notless than three feet in
height at the time of
occupancy of such
lot. Individual shrubs
shall be planted not
more than five feet
on center, and
individual trees
thereafter shall be
maintained by the
owner or occupants
so as to maintain a
visually impervious
screen (upon
planting) year-round.
At least 50% of the
plantings shall be
evenly spaced.
The buffer may be reduced to a min-
imum 20-foot width
if the Planning Board
finds that a sight-
impervious wall or
fence will be erected
of appropriate
0*
See also
§§ 350-8.2
through 350-
8.11 for
location,
construction,
layout, require-
ments for
parking lots.
*Note: No new parking re-quired for any reuse or new
construction,
except in the
case of new
footprint/con-
struction for
theaters,
churches,
gyms, places of
public
assembly with
seating, hotels/
motels and/or
nightclubs. See
table in § 350-
8.1C for re-quirements.
See Central
Business
Archi-
tecture
review
criteria,
Chapter
156
Office (drive-through only allowed by special
permit)
Office with drive-through √√ Planning Board
Restaurant (drive-through not allowed), bar,
entertainment, community center
Hotel/Motel
Trades, artist’s space
Temporary event
Health/Athletic club, indoor recreation, membership
club operated for profit or nonprofit
Any residential use above the first floor, any
residential use located to the rear of otherwise
permitted nonresidential uses that occupy a space at
least 20 feet deep, and any residential use on a
property which does not abut on a public way or
public park (however, not classifying rail trails as
public parks) maintained by the City. Home
businesses are considered residential uses for these
purposes.
Commercial or public parking facility or the addition
of 6 or more parking spaces √
Single or multimodal passenger terminal
Facilities for essential services, municipal facility
Education, religious use, day care, school-aged
child-care program (MGL c. 28A, § 9), family day
care (with registration with Building
Commissioner); historical association, and nonprofit
museum (residence of a caretaker must be above
first floor only)
Agricultural uses
Telecommunication antennas on existing towers or
other structures which do not require the
construction of a new tower (in accordance with
§ 350-10.9)
√
350 Attachment 9:1 Supp 11, Dec 2019
NORTHAMPTON CODE
CENTRAL BUSINESS DISTRICT (CB)
Uses Allowed by Right-combinations are
permitted, including accessory uses, structures
and share driveways (unless otherwise noted)
If checked, site plan
approval required by
Planning Board
See § 350-11.1 (new
construction of 2,000+
triggers site plan)
If checked, special
permit approval
required by
designated board
Dimensions
(same for all uses)
Landscaping
(same for
all uses)
Minimum
Parking
(same for
all uses)
Building
Design
(same for
all uses)
materials and
sufficient height to
screen abutting properties and will provide at least as
Veterinary hospital in which all animals are kept
inside permanent buildings
Private utility substation or similar facility or
building √
Power plant and/or district utility √√ Planning Board
New telecommunications structures/facilities (in
accordance with §§ 350-2.1 and 350-10.9)√√ Planning Board
Research and development facilities √
See above.
Existing trees and
ground cover should
be preserved in this
strip, reducing the
need to plant
additional trees.
Trees may not be cut
down in this strip
without site plan
approval.
All landscaping shall
be maintained in a healthy growing condition, neat and orderly in
appearance, and free
of refuse and debris.
All plantings shall be
arranged and
maintained so as to
not obscure the
vision of traffic.
See above. See above.
More than one curb cut (>1 existing may remain
unless change of use triggers site plan)√√ Planning Board
Access to parking over residential lot; see § 350-8.9 √√ Planning Board
Rooftop solar hot water and photovoltaic N/A None 0 None.
Install-
ations must
be main-
tained in
good
condition
Solar photovoltaic of any size, ground-mounted:
1. Over any legal parking lot or driveway;
2. At any landfill site not separated from the site-
assigned property by any road; and
3. At an airport not separated from the runways by
any road.
√Same setbacks as setbacks
for other accessory
buildings in the district
Sufficient land-
scaping within the
setbacks to
provide effective
visual separation
350 Attachment 9:2 Supp 11, Dec 2019
ZONING
CENTRAL BUSINESS DISTRICT (CB)
Uses Allowed by Right-combinations are
permitted, including accessory uses, structures
and share driveways (unless otherwise noted)
If checked, site plan
approval required by
Planning Board
See § 350-11.1 (new
construction of 2,000+
triggers site plan)
If checked, special
permit approval
required by
designated board
Dimensions
(same for all uses)
Landscaping
(same for
all uses)
Minimum
Parking
(same for
all uses)
Building
Design
(same for
all uses)
with
painting,
structural
repairs and
security
maintained
and
facilities no
longer
being used
dismantled
within 90
days.
Accessory solar photovoltaic ground-mounted on a
parcel with any building or use, provided that the PV
is sized to generate no more than 200% of the annual
projected electric use of the non-PV building or use
√Setbacks:
Front = 50 feet
Side = 50 feet
Rear = 50 feet
And such open space as
applies to the principal
building
See above 0
Reuse of an historic educational or religious building
for any residential use on the ground floor or any
other commercial use not otherwise allowed in the
district, provided that such use is within the footprint
of the existing building. The existing building may
be expanded to accommodate elevators and
stairwells, provided that all historically contributing
portions of the building are retained and covered
with an historic preservation restriction granted to
the City of Northampton in a form acceptable to the
Planning Board, with input from the Historical
Commission, as preserving the key character-
defining features visible from the road (and not
necessarily meeting federal or state preservation
standards for the entire building). Portions of the
building that are not part of the original architecture
of the building and which do not contribute to the
historical or architectural significance of the
building as determined by the Planning Board, with
input from the Historical Commission, may be
demolished.
√
Medical marijuana √
Any marijuana independent testing laboratory or
other testing labs only when located below grade,
above the first floor or behind a street-front unit
reserved for an allowed commercial use, which is at
least 30 feet deep, or in a building that does not abut
on a public way maintained by the City.
350 Attachment 9:3 Supp 11, Dec 2019
NORTHAMPTON CODE
CENTRAL BUSINESS DISTRICT (CB)
Uses Allowed by Right-combinations are
permitted, including accessory uses, structures
and share driveways (unless otherwise noted)
If checked, site plan
approval required by
Planning Board
See § 350-11.1 (new
construction of 2,000+
triggers site plan)
If checked, special
permit approval
required by
designated board
Dimensions
(same for all uses)
Landscaping
(same for
all uses)
Minimum
Parking
(same for
all uses)
Building
Design
(same for
all uses)
Short-term rentals. Such rentals must be registered
with the City and are only valid for the year in which
registration is completed and expire December 31
each year.
Notes:
1 No establishment shall be located within 200 feet of a preexisting public or private school providing education in kindergarten or any of grades 1 through 12. Building facades and
property must be consistent with the character of the neighborhood, including such items as transparent storefront windows with a view into the interior of the building. Security measures
must appear from the outside of the building to be consistent with the character of the neighborhood.
350 Attachment 9:4 Supp 11, Dec 2019
ZONING
350 Attachment 8:1 Supp 11.5, Oct 2020
350 Attachment 8 City of Northampton Table of Use and Dimensional Regulations URC District Description: Example Structures
Primarily residential with range of building and unit configurations allowed: single, multi-family, townhouse, home businesses allowed. Some mixed uses and institutional uses allowed, see list.
Lot Dimension Requirements Layout/Setbacks For All Uses
Lot Size 2,500 ft2 minimum (min.) per unit Frontage/Width = 50 feet min.
Depth = 75 feet min. Setbacks Front =10 feet min. Side = 10 feet* min. Side = 20 feet min. if building taller than 40 feet Side = 0 feet on one side for zero lot line Rear= 20 feet min. Max. Height = 50 feet See Educational Use Overlay District for other height requirements within the overlay. Open Space = 30% min.
20’ if building taller than 40’
NORTHAMPTON CODE
350 Attachment 8:2 Supp 11.5, Oct 2020
Design Standards Illustrated Planning Board may waive, by site plan approval, elements 2, 3, 4 if it can be shown that a different design meets a pedestrian-scale design that encourages public/private transition and interface (e.g., similar elements facing internal courtyards or private streets)
1. If a garage or other parking structure is attached, it must be set back 20 feet and the garage/structure shall comprise no more than 30% of the front facade of the primary structure.
2. Front doors must face the street. For units extending behind front units, where entries orient to the side lot, 20-foot side setback shall apply unless other means to create a buffer/private outdoor space to adjoining property are approved by the Planning Board. Buildings must have a covered entry.
Covered entry
20' 20' 20' 20' 10' 10'
10' 10'
street
Max. 30% of
total combined
area of facades
Max 30% of total
combined area of
facades
Connector elements must be
set back & include glazed
openings that face the street
Living space
above
DOESN’T FIT
Max. 30% of
total combined
area of facades
Living space above
Exceeds 30% of total combined area of facades
Garage or Parking Structure
Area
Primary Structure
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350 Attachment 8:3 Supp 11.5, Oct 2020
3. For new buildings, setback, scale, massing should fit within the block face.
4. Parking for more than 5 cars shall be distributed on the site to minimize impact to the neighborhood character, which shall be accomplished by small groupings of spaces surrounded by landscaping or parallel parking along a narrow driveway to mimic an alley. Driveways wider than 15 feet shall be visually buffered from side lot lines through setbacks or screening to adequately block car headlights.
Minimum parking for residential uses For other uses see table in § 350-8.2.
1 space per 1,000 ft2 gross living area (round up). No more than 2 spaces required per unit.
Doesn’t fit
NORTHAMPTON CODE
350 Attachment 8:4 Supp 11.5, Oct 2020
URC USES ALLOWED Uses Allowed By Right:
• Single-, two-, three-family multifamily, townhouses with six or fewer units
• Attached (to a single-family) accessory dwelling unit not to exceed 900 square feet gross living area. See § 350-10.10. Same setback as for principal structures.
• Home business up to 25 visits per week as defined in § 350-2.1
• Zero lot line single-family; see § 350-10.14
• Accessory uses to residential: Tag sales: temporary sales of personal and household articles
Pets/Animals (§ 350-5.3)
• Accessory structures, detached (but no larger than 1,000 ft2 of lot coverage or 3% of lot area, whichever is greater, unless it is used for agricultural purposes). See also § 350-6.7. Setbacks: Front: 20 feet Side: 4 feet Rear: 4 feet
• Family day care (registration w/Building Commissioner required)
• Preexisting nonconforming uses (may trigger ZBA permit)
• Cemetery
• Temporary event as defined in § 350-2.1
• Agriculture, horticulture, floriculture, noncommercial forestry, the growing of all vegetables and a
temporary (not to exceed erection or use for a period of four months in any one year) greenhouse or stand for retail sale of agricultural or farm products raised primarily on the same premises
• Solar photovoltaic of any size, ground-mounted over any legal parking lot or driveway
• Municipal facility; facilities for essential services
• Bed-and-breakfast
• Short-term rental: allowed only upon annual registration with the City. Use as a registered rental is
only valid for the year in which registration is completed and expires December 31 each year.
Site Plan Approval Required for the Following:
• Any construction (other than for a single-family home) greater than 2,000 square feet
• The addition of a principal structure to a parcel where one already exists.
• Educational use: nonprofit, dormitories, any religious use, day care, school-aged child-care program (MGL c. 28A, § 9) and historical association or society and nonprofit museum (may include the residence of a caretaker). See also educational use overlay standards.
• Parking off-site and combined parking. See §§ 350-8.5 and 350-8.7.
• Creation or expansion of six or more parking spaces
• Parking lot access for nonresidential uses across a residential lot. See § 350-8.9.
• Parking requirement reduction. See § 350-8.10F.
• Residential shared driveways. See § 350-8.8, Expansion of parking by more than six spaces.
• Telecommunications antennas located on existing telecommunications towers or other structures which do not require the construction of a new tower (in accordance with § 350-10.9)
• Reuse of historic educational or religious building(s) for any residential use, live/work space, or
office; provided, however, that no more than 20% of the floor space of the building(s) shall be used for medical, banking or any offices where a primary function is to provide services to retail
customers or individuals. All such uses approved under this provision shall be within the footprint of existing building(s) and may only be approved contingent upon protection of all historically contributing portions of the building with an historic preservation restriction granted to the City of Northampton in a form acceptable to the Planning Board, with input from the Historical
Commission, as preserving the key character-defining features visible from the road (and not necessarily meeting federal or state preservation standards for the entire building). The existing
ZONING
350 Attachment 8:5 Supp 11.5, Oct 2020
building may be expanded to accommodate elevators and stairwells. Portions of the building that are not part of the original architecture of the building and which do not contribute to the historical or architectural significance of the building as determined by the Planning Board, with input from the Historical Commission, may be demolished. Special Permit Approval Required for the Following Uses by Planning Board Unless Otherwise Noted:
• Detached accessory dwelling unit (see § 350-10.10—Zoning Board of Appeals special permit)
• Home business for personal service business by appointment only or home business more than 25 visits, etc. (see § 350-10.12 for other criteria—Zoning Board of Appeals special permit)
• Any multifamily or townhouse project creating seven or more units in one or more phases within a five-year period. Any such project shall comply with the following: A. Buildings and parking. 1) The first row of buildings along a street shall face the street and add to the streetscape. There shall not be any parking, except incidental to a driveway or roadway, between the first row of buildings and the street. Parking shall be located behind buildings or designed otherwise to minimize view from the public street. 2) The area between the property and the road pavement shall be made to be pedestrian friendly, with sidewalks, street furniture, trees and other vegetation, all of which shall be in conformance with City standards. All landscaping incorporated as part of the applicant’s design between the street and the building(s) shall facilitate and enhance the pedestrian use of sidewalks and other areas adjacent to the building. Such streetscape may include rebuilding by the applicant, as necessary, of granite curbs, ADA-compliant concrete sidewalks, tree belts, and drainage improvements incorporating low-impact development standards for any necessary drainage improvements triggered by these changes. 3) Buildings that abut existing residential properties shall incorporate building articulation alongside facades. Building projections shall be incorporated for any side façade that is longer than 30 feet. 4) Front facades shall have setbacks consistent with other buildings within the block or provide a different setback that is necessary to address any natural resources constraints. B. Streets and roadways. 1) Projects shall connect to all surrounding neighborhoods with bicycle and pedestrian access to the extent possible. a) For projects that have more than one vehicular access, driveways and roadways shall internally and externally connect to each other and dead-end streets shall be avoided whenever possible. Dead-end roadways and driveways shall never exceed 500 feet and, to the extent possible, must include a bicycle and pedestrian connection from the dead-end street to a street, common area, park or civic space. b) For projects that have a single vehicular access, such access shall not exceed 500 feet and pedestrian access shall also be provided directly from any street to residential units. 2) The design standards for the length of dead-end streets, protection of natural features, sidewalks, wheelchair ramps, landscaping, utilities, and the construction method and
materials for water lines, sanitary sewers, storm sewers, fire protection, sidewalks, private roads and other infrastructure shall be those set forth in Chapter 290, Subdivision of Land. These standards shall apply even for private roadways and driveways that are not part of a subdivision, unless waived by the Planning Board. 3) Driveways and private roadways shall be designed to function as private alleys, or shared streets with pedestrians and cyclists, and engineered to keep speeds below 15
NORTHAMPTON CODE
350 Attachment 8:6 Supp 11.5, Oct 2020
miles per hour, or yield streets with separate sidewalks as shown in the subdivision regulations. Such sidewalks shall connect to sidewalks along adjacent streets. 4) Vehicular access shall connect to surrounding streets as appropriate to ensure safe and efficient flow of traffic within the surrounding neighborhood and to mitigate increases in traffic on nearby streets. 5) Preexisting paths historically used as bicycle and pedestrian trails shall be preserved to the extent possible and marked with appropriate signage. C. Park space. 1) All projects shall include a park/common area fully designed and constructed to be integrated into the project, which area shall be easily accessible and available for residents of the project. At a minimum, this space shall be 300 square feet or 30 square feet per dwelling unit of buildable land area, whichever is greater. 2) All such space shall be contiguous unless waived by the Planning Board upon finding that it is in the public interest and consistent with the intent and purpose of this section. D. Environment and energy. Buildings shall meet one of the following environmental standards: 1) Home Energy Rating System (HERS) rating for the building envelope at least 25% lower than the current municipal standard at the time the special permit is requested, but in no event shall the HERS rating be greater than 47 for units of 1,200 square feet or less, and no greater than 41 for units larger than 1,200 square feet. Alternatively, for units of 1,200 square feet or less, the Planning Board may consider a comparable energy standard to the HERS rating of 47 after consultation with the Building Commissioner. 2) U.S. Green Building Council LEED New Construction Gold or Neighborhood Development Gold Certified. E. Size, access and affordability. 1) Buildings shall meet one of the following standards: a) 11% of the units shall be “affordable units” as that term is defined in § 350-2.1 of the Code of the City of Northampton; or b) Contain 25% or more of the units no larger than 1,200 square feet gross floor area. 2) Equal access. All projects shall provide equal access to all building amenities, park and civic space and public entrances to buildings to residents of both affordable and non-affordable units. F. Internet connectivity. All projects that include infrastructure making internet connectivity available shall do so without differences in quality, capacity or speed to residents of both affordable and non-affordable units.
• Educational use: private for-profit colleges, schools, etc.
• Mixed-use buildings/lots, live/work (mixed residential/work)—All uses may be on any floor; business uses are limited to miscellaneous professional and business offices and shall not include banking, real estate and insurance offices or retail, personal and consumer service establishments, medical doctors, dentists or chiropractors.
• Community center
• Nursing homes, assisted living
• Lodging house
• Halfway house
• Membership club operated as a not-for-profit corporation, as defined by MGL c. 180, excluding any adult establishments which display live nudity
• Filling of any land. See § 350-10.4.
• Filling of water or wet area. See § 350-10.3.
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350 Attachment 8:7 Supp 11.5, Oct 2020
• Funeral establishment
• Crematory meeting accessory structure setbacks
• Year-round greenhouse/stand for wholesale and retail sale of agricultural farm products raised on-
site
• New telecommunications facilities (in accordance with §§ 350-2.1 and 350-10.9)
• Accessory solar photovoltaic ground-mounted on a parcel with any building or use, between 8 KW
or over 100% but no more than 200% of the annual projected electric use of the non-PV building or use; same setbacks as for detached accessory structures
• Private utility, substation or district utility
• Heavy public use—City Council special permit
* No minimum lot size, depth, or frontage required for essential services or municipal facilities as defined in § 350-2.1. Minimum setbacks for principal buildings as part of municipal facilities are the same as other principal uses in table above and are the only dimensional lot requirements necessary to be met.