Northampton Survey Final Results Report.pdf1
Q1 - What best describes your relationship to the City of Northampton? -
Selected Choice
155 Responses
Choice Count
I live in Northampton ...
I live in Northampton for part ...
I own property in ...
I work in Northampton but do ...
Other (please describe)
143
1
2
3
6
Q2 - How long have you lived in Northampton?
144 Responses
Less than one year [1%, 2]1-5 years [10%, 15]6-10 years [10%, 15]11-15 years [8%, 11]
16-25 years [18%, 26]More than 25 years [52%, 75]
16-25 years [18%]More than 25 years [52%]
Q3 - Do you live in a designated Historic District or design review
district?
143 Responses
Yes [17%, 24]No [73%, 104]Unsure [10%, 14]Prefer not to answer [1%, 1]
Yes [17%]No [73%]
Q4 - Did you attend any Historic Northampton Preservation community
forums during Fall 2022?
155 Responses
Yes [16%, 25]No [83%, 128]Prefer not to answer [1%, 2]
Yes [16%]No [83%]
2
Q5 - Have you read any of the publicly available materials about this
project on the Northampton Office of Planning and Sustainbility website?
155 Responses
Yes [39%, 61]No [61%, 94]
Yes [39%]No [61%]
Q6 - If you have read any of the publicly available materials, what have
you read? - Selected Choice
56 Responses
The Historic Preservation Element scope and introduction [48%, 29]Draft sections of the plan [41%, 25]
Other (please describe) [11%, 7]
48%41%11%
Q6_3_TEXT - Other (please describe) - Text
6 Responses
Other (please describe) - Text
not sure
I honestly don't remember.
Scattered news reports
both
online summaries
PowerPoint Presentation
Q7 - Had you heard about the Historic Preservation Element planning
process before this survey?
84 Responses
Yes [31%, 26]No [63%, 53]Unsure [6%, 5]
Yes [31%]No [63%]
3
Q8 - How do you prefer to learn about historic preservation information,
education, projects, or programs? (Select all that apply) - Selected
Choice
155 Responses
Choice Count
City website
Newsletters / newspapers
Plaques
Exhibits
Tours
Social media
Other (please describe)
76
117
36
51
51
53
35
Q8_7_TEXT - Other (please describe) - Text
35 Responses
emailhistoric
northampton
city
meetingnewsletter
center
group
person
presentation
program zoom
basecall
carolyn
community
connectcouncil
data
digitaldistribution
emergency
event
holding
host
including
library
life list
lists
mouth
network
news notice
organizationpersonal
phone
present public
research ruggle
senior
serve
t.v
text
ways
word
4
Q9 - Below are some general goals for Northampton's future. Please
rank them by...
152 Responses
1 2 3 4 5 6
Housingaffordability Historicpreservatio Multimodaltransportatio Open spaceconservatio Climateresiliency ...Economicdevelopmen
0
10
20
30
40
50
Q9 - Below are some general goals for Northampton's future. Please
rank them by...
152 Responses
Field Min Max Mean Median Responses Sum Bottom
Box
Top
Box
Housing affordability 1.0 6.0 2.7 2.0 151 412.0 0.7 0.3
Historic preservation 1.0 6.0 3.9 4.0 152 594.0 0.4 0.6
Multimodal transportation
infrastructure 1.0 6.0 3.9 4.0 151 589.0 0.4 0.6
Open space conservation 1.0 6.0 3.7 4.0 151 559.0 0.4 0.6
Climate resiliency & sustainability 1.0 6.0 2.7 3.0 151 414.0 0.7 0.3
Economic development 1.0 6.0 4.0 4.0 151 604.0 0.4 0.6
5
Q10 - Do you think historic preservation is importation for meeting
Northampton's sustainability goals? - Selected Choice
155 Responses
Yes [58%, 90]No [12%, 18]Unsure [23%, 36]Prefer not to answer [1%, 1]
Other (please describe) [6%, 10]
Yes [58%]No [12%]Unsure [23%]
Q11 - How would you define "historic character," and what makes
Northampton's historic character special compared to other communities
in the Pioneer Valley? (1000-character max)
109 Responses
historicbuilding
northamptoncharacter
architecture
historydowntown
city old
preserve
unique
neighborhood
street
community
town
important
place
spacearea
florence
historical
pastpreservation
center
main
smithcentury
church
home
make open
tree
commercial
landscape
people
special
built
college
house
look
social
structure
time
years
cultural feel
interesting
lot
maintain
reflect
residential
sense
style
walk19th
beautiful
bike
define
design
district
early
england
event
future good
great
housing
including
live
love
mix
scale
significant
valley
back
business
interest
layout
location
mill
modern
quality
significance
work
20th
50
abolitionist
ago
appearance
attractive
brick
bridge
change
characteristic
charming
citizen
contemporary
contribute
date
development
109 Responses
How would you de ne "historic character," and what makes Northampton's historic character special
compared to other communities in the Pioneer Valley? (1000-character max)
Architecture and history of building and land use still present in the landscape, street and neighborhood distinctive character preserved;
The brick and quaint New England buildings, the color scape - trees, old barns, houses, forests, winding roads, the absence of ugly box
housing, etc
This land goes back to the time of the Nonotucks. It has a rich history not only for indigenous peoples but also for others who have
settled here over the years. Each area has its own history--such as the Barrett Street Marsh, a conservation area that once abutted a
"poor farm"; and Florence, with its abolitionist history. Some of our churches have been serving the community for over 100 years.
Many buildings are unique for both historic and architectural reasons, including several downtown locations. We have Smith College,
the old State Hospital (with its challenging history), and other historic institutions. And we have many areas of our city that have been
preserved for conservation purposes: Saw Mill Hills; Fitzgeral Lake; Roberts Hill; Pine Grove; and areas abutting the Mill River. The
Mill River itself has a storied history. And I like to think that Northampton is a community that welcomes peoples of diverse
backgrounds and life experience.
Historic character is preserving elements of buildings plaques history education and locations of Northampton’s history
6
Historic pattern of settlement; mixed-use downtown with buildings close to sidewalk, dense residential neighborhoods with traditional
architecture, sidewalks, buildings close to the street, street trees
Downtown Northampton's design, as set out in the 1800s, is the most friendly of any local town to walkability, intersecting with transit,
and creating a green and beautiful downtown where people want to be. It feels old but has potential, because of its arrangement, to be
really forward-thinking. We can preserve a lot of the beautiful and useful older architecture and design while modernizing. The 2025
Main St design plan is one example.
I like that, although not unique to Northampton, the "inner" city has different distinctive neighborhoods that reflect various aspects of
its historical past, as also do some of its open spaces. The newer outer "suburbs," in Florence and Leeds, do not share this built historical
quality but there is a great deal of history--natural, farming, indigenous--that can be presented to tie them into a history of the city.
Buildings/structures older than at least 75 years with Historical characteristics which Northampton is fortunate to have many of.
Architecture, landscape (including street designs), trees and vegetation, connections and space to areas of recreation and those who use
them
I would say that "historic character" reflects an area's history and how the area allows that history to define its present and future. The
city of Northampton 's history goes back over 350 years and many other communities evolved as daughter "communities" ... settlements
extending from Maine to Connecticut.
Northampton's age in relation to the rest of the country and thus the abundance of events and notable people from Northampton who
have contributed to the history of this country. It is important to retain the physical remains of that history.
The Historic Commissions remit should not be made to be a body which exists only to support the planning and sustainability’s vision.
Asking us to define Historic Character sounds like a marketing exercise, to diminish the work of the historic commission, rather than
broaden their remit and tools to do the work to preserve.
Historic Character, is a subjective concept and not History. Or it then it becomes yet one more city organization that is only tasked with
enforcing the plan, instead of a space where the needs of Historic preservation can be addressed. i
I would argue that the idea of Northampton's "historic character" is constructed by elite groups of citizens who want the city to look and
feel a certain way for their own benefit. This leads to a situation where only "charming" (read: expensive) stores make it on Main Street,
while retail that caters to people with less money is left on King Street and the periphery of town. Northampton has come to pride itself
on an aesthetic of exclusion-- its "historic character" is understood to represent the sophistication and high levels of education of its
citizens (as opposed to, say, people who live in nearby towns and shop at Walmart).
Historic character to me is the presence of buildings from the 1700s, 1800s, and early 1900s. I have lived in cities with great historic
reverence: New Orleans, San Francisco, Pittsburgh. I treasure seeing buildings that echo our history; I also love many modern buildings
that show off glass and asymmetry, etc. but the old buildings (e.g., churches, houses, barns) that have been preserved are without a
doubt the most exciting for me. Northampton is unique in having preserved a wealth of historic properties thus far. I want to help work
toward preserving the richness of this little city's architectural treasures for the next generation. Thanks for doing this survey. I wish
more info were being distributed about this project and its parameters.
This is a difficult question to answer in 1,000 characters, especially in a survey in this format. Northampton is a historic place with
many significant historic buildings and landscapes.
In the above question about ranking priorities, these categories are too general to weigh tradeoffs. As asked, all are priority 1.
I think the general layout of the town is part of its historic character, including its open spaces, as well as the buildings that have been
part of the town for much or all of its history. Northampton has the look and feel of a town that was built in previous centuries, and the
buildings that were designed and built then are part of that character.
"Historic character" is a mix of good quality architecture with appropriate open space and transportation options (walkability, bikes) that
is available to all. It can be public, commercial or residential space, but affordability has to be a component.
7
Historic character means the location, materials, appearance, and memory of a place. Northampton has an interesting history of Mill and
upper class homes and both should be given attention to. Also, the layout and the small town centers are generally important, regardless
of similarities to other towns.
Every community has a unique historic character. Northampton's is long. It has been and remains a religious, education, cultural,
business, and residential center. Citizens here are varied, creative, and drawn to it by this heritage. Without understanding where we
have been, we cannot wisely determine where we are or want to be. It is an essential element.
Northampton has always been a very progressive town in the area, such as with it's abolition movements. I think it also has an
interesting mix of industrial, artistic, and intellectual history, compared to a lot of towns in the area which were historically more purely
industrial.
Charming old houses well kept, decorative trees, old churches and other community buildings, interesting brickwork
Northampton has a unique history. Every community has a responsibility to preserve its unique New England character so we do not
become part of suburban sprawl.
We have wonderful architecture, especially downtown, and preservation of that is key to maintaining our appeal as a commercial center.
Our downtown is better preserved than most others in our area.
Monuments, preserved buildings, and other preserved structures.
old and elegant
Northampton is one of the oldest towns in New England. It has a small number of houses that date back to its earlier years but
otherwise not a lot of evidence of its historic character. Also, many older houses--including those from the late 19th century--are not in
a good state of repair. Northampton needs to help people maintain their historic houses with low-interest loans, grants, etc.
Northampton also needs to either help building owners downtown take better care of the buildings or if the building owners have the
funds--pressure them to take better care of the building facades, etc. Downtown looks a lot more rundown than it should.
Historic character is the look and feel of a place. Northampton is fortunate to have several historic neighborhoods/districts. I love the
wide main street with historic storefronts, the library, downtown Florence, the history at Village Hill...
Preserving the architecture of older buildings for future generations, particularly in districts with many older buildings; preserving
older residential homes (preventing demos/historical frontage style). Northamption has not ‘lost’ as many older commercial buildings
from its downtown as other cities in the Valley
Northampton was the preferred seat of Old Hampshire County which included nearly all of Western Massachusetts. Here were the
courts and here were the fertile fields of the Connecticut. Alison Lockwood in her Finding Paradise is great on why Northampton held a
special place in our regions history. The Old Hampshire Anti-Slavery centered in Northampton included abolitionists from Franklin and
Hampden Counties, hence its name.
The Many houses and buildings that were built pre-1900 create a historic feeling as do the cemeteries.
Buildings, streetscapes, historical events
Historic character is finding the cultural differences of every day life from a set time period and shining a spotlight on them. Sometimes
those cultural practices are brought in by immigrants, and sometimes formed by the daily challenges of living in a particular
environment.
I would say Northampton has been more open to diversity throughout time
community's willingness to come together in understanding our past, honor & respect the land & our forebears, learn from our
successes & failures, work toward inclusivity & dignity for all
Historic districts especially downtown and, although not in the Register, Florence center
8
"Historic character" describes buildings, lands, and other features of the landscape that reflect the characteristics of their time of origin.
While preserving/restoring a 19th-century building doesn't take the original land back to its origins as a field, for instance, the original
structure represents Northampton's past in important ways. One example is Florence's Miss Flo Diner. Another example is restored
factory buildings in the area that are being repurposed.
Maintaining buildings and areas of historical interest so we maintain a variety of styles and eras
preserve rather than demolish. Interpretive signage, such as in front of First Churches. Walking route with historic interpretive
pamphlet. Collection of oral histories. Historic character is not just the buildings, but increasing awareness of the buildings and what
happened there.
I love the green spaces, neighborhoods with trees, Acad of Music, Pulaski Park, historic buildings, walkable downtown, quiet late at
night, Look Park. The sense that people have lived and loved here for centuries---and still are. Preservation work should honor the
existing neighborhoods and the people who live there. (Don't repurpose a former church into a mental health/social facility if there's no
parking nearby.)
Lots of historic architecture and historic places within our City
Unique history of settlements, silk factories, forward thinkers
Historic character means having a critical mass of intact landscape/buildings from an earlier period of time. Northampton is blessed with
many intact older buildings and neighborhoods. But such neighborhoods are dynamically changing and should allow thoughtfully
designed contemporary additions/buildings that can enhance rather than detract, such as the Smith College student center and art
museum renovation, which add an interesting and contrasting vitality to that section of Elm St.
The downtown has mostly not been destroyed by strip malls or big box stores.
Preservation of historic architecture and landscape
Historic character is tall trees with arching bowers, its green space and homes with trees and gardens that are bird and bee attractive.
Housing is green in all senses--not blocks of condos tat stretch from concrete to concrete. Zoning demands trees and green space for all
dwellers. It's a pleasure to look at variety of architecture on a good walk around the city. We read our history by our uniqueness. We do
not fall prey to lack of vision.
Anything older than a certain date; anything unusual and noteworthy.
What makes Northampton attractive and interesting are the unique historic buildings, so we don't look like "everytown USA".
Contemporary construction often is lacking in character, interest and quality.
Community and social cultural history
Northampton seems more special due to having both big, beautiful, historic buildings, but also outlying open spaces and agriculture
(some with historic implications!).
Northampton has too many old churches, a relic of its fundamentalist Christian history. Northampton has an important story as a
model New England town that was a frontier town, and later home to ideologues across the political spectrum. Currently it seems to be
in a bit of a state of paralysis, with neither the resources to maintain the many historic structures or to build new buildings at any scale.
architectural components or blocks of buildings which represent time periods in the past. Luckily, Nton did not experience urban
renewal.
Local distinctiveness and sense of place.
Northampton has kept a lot of its local architecture, both residential and commercial. It is unique in having a lot of locally owned
businesses.
Artsy, less homogenized, not so corporate, charming, not obviously affluent, rooted in the history of place as part of the fabric of being,
thereby combining the new, fresh, and modern with the historic, old, and funky.
9
The consistency and extensive profile of original buildings along Main Street that “appear” to be in excellent exterior condition. Also, the
width of our expansive Main Street. Don’t narrow our Main Street. There are bike paths parallel to the main corridor and those provide
bicycle access for those mobile enough to travel by bicycle.
Representation and sense of authentic lives/industry/community in earlier times. Northampton is especially interesting for the
coexistence of wealthy and influential citizens with the poor immigrant families. How they related, coexisted, and influenc d the town's
development
Not special, not featuring historic opportunities available
Ability to see characteristics of past designs highlighted to shown past craftsmanship.
The buildings in Northampton are very important to our history as well as the historic figures who helped shape our community.
The historic character of Northampton is reflected in the architectural character of its buildings (residential and commercial,
neighborhood and downtown) and in the human scale of the city--walkability, bicycle access, a balance of built and natural environment,
attention to the people.
Northampton's historic buildings are part of what make the downtown are extended core a place to visit. There's visual interest among
the buildings that show usage over time.
Good question. Would like to know the definition the city is using.
Downtown building: former courthouse, City Hall, Smith Charities, St, Mary's many other Main St. buildings; several buildings in
Florence Center (fearful for their future); historically-preserved homes, old trees
The historic character of a city is how historic buildings, plaques, and layout contribute to its uniqueness and sense of place.
Northampton has a strong historic character because of the variety of architectural styles of housing particularly on Elm Street and
Bridge Street.
Northampton's downtown has a unique feel with its extremely wide Main Street. Open space mixed with garden and somewhat
ramshackle housing make my neighborhood unique.
Architectural character preserved over time, for the most part.
A good balance of open space preservation and historic older homes
The architecture, institutions including churches, Smith, Bridge St cemetery, Historic Northampton. Public recognition of history--the
mural in the Masonic St parking lot, Sojourner Truth Memorial on Main St, Coolidge presidential library, etc.
The mix of architectural styles downtown is what I think of as "historic character"
For me, it's important to preserve the beautiful architecture of Northampton's heyday in the 19th and early 20th centuries, because
modern buildings are usually uglier and made from less sturdy and less natural materials.
I think it's how the town manifests its distant past history and it's more recent (last 50 years) history, which includes both obvious and
perhaps yet-unrevealed aspects of the city's physical and social/cultural elements.
preservation of older buildings and homes. Keeping and preserving outside facades while allowing for internal modernization and
renovation. Having some type of visual uniformity of areas and neighborhoods. Include and preserve significant historic buildings and
spaces, particularly supporting Historic Northampton. Provide educational information (plaque?) when it would add to the experience
and/or if a historic building needed to be removed (after a process)
preservation of historic buildings and sights and future development that compliments that
10
Northampton presents largely as it did at the turn of the 20th century 1880-1920. The brick buildings, wide sidewalks, trees, and its
iconic sweeping curve give it character .The continuity from Bridge Street by the PO to the Gates of Smith ; From the Calvin Theatre to
Northampton Bike give Northampton a decided "leg up" over other Valley towns. And of course these spaces being occupied by vibrant
businesses is key
Northampton has been a regional center for population, economic growth, regional governance, social change and culture throughout
its history. It's blending of agriculture, industry and academics, along with (comparative) socio-economic diversity make it a standout in
Western MA and a destination location for people from around the country.
Many of the downtown brick/stone buildings, churches and storefronts give character to the downtown and to Florence. I find
Florence's history as a place where blacks could live and be helped on the Underground Railroad pre-civil war; and it's historic utopian
community/ies to be most compelling. I love the work of the David Ruggles Center. I also love the way the organization Historic
Northampton brings the town's history alive.
Buildings along Main Street, mill buildings, - not churches unless open to public for non-sectarian purposes.
The large centrally located collection of well preserved historic buildings.
New England Architecture, Historic buildings that housed important historic events, Smith college campus
The keeping of beautiful and useful buildings masoned from centuries ago. Recognizing historic value of social movements.
Buildings that represent the past, are older, show how Northampton was.
HP is most often thought of as old buildings, but I feel that scale is very important to the character of a place.
I love Northampton and find its history interesting, but what happened here 200 years ago has little to do with why I make my home
hear today, at least in any obvious way.
Maintaining historic buildings and properties that are part of the fabric of town.
1. Unique architectural distinction
2. Structures crucial to the city’s progress
3. Historic sites of social and economic “firsts” of proven lasting significance
Sites with architectural and/or historic significance.
Commercial and housing stock is comprised of buildings older than 100 years and is the predominant appearance of the community on
its Main Streets. Demolition of older buildings is discouraged whenever possible. Other communities nearby (I prefer not to use the
term Pioneer Valley) clearly did not prioritize this and their landscape is predominantly modern buildings, strip malls, and housing built
in the past 50 years that replaced older buildings.
Northampton's downtown is one of the remaining historical and potentially vibrant downtowns in Western Mass (lots of historic
downtowns, most are declining.). We also have properties tied to significant historic events. The rest is just old (and under-insulated,
heated with oil and increasingly expensive to maintain)
Buildings that reflect the City's history, examples of special architecture, special trees
Historic character is the "charm" that comes when a city/town thoughtfully protects the historic nature of their downtown over many
years.
No city in the Pioneer Valley has such a beautiful downtown area as Northampton.
The downtown is historically unique and intact. Smith College is an historic resource that contributes to the City, and its historic
villages and milltown past
11
A celebration of the preservation and conservation of craftsmanship, building materials, construction methods, building styles,
streetscapes, and layouts — in downtown areas and neighborhoods — dating from 50 or more years ago.
Our city is special because of the talented architects (Isaac Damon, William Fenno Pratt, Roswell Field Putnam, etc.) who designed
public and residential buildings here, and how their structures complement our spectacular natural surroundings and heritage
landscapes.
"historic character" means discouraging a tear-down where personal gain for the builder / developer has a higher priority regardless of
architectural integrity for the neighborhood. For example, Woodlawn Ave lost a bit of its character by having replaced an English
Cottage with a contemporary design that is visually incompatible with its neighbors.
The mix of historic civic/commercial buildings, 19th century industrial buildings, 19th century mill landscapes (the mill river), and the
historic homes of significance both near Smith, Fort Hill and in areas of Florence that reflect our unique commercial, industrial and
social history. The relationship of these to nature and historic transportation routes is also significant and worth protecting or
acknowledging with investment.
It's defined by the history of the city -- the things are unique to it, as well as national trends that are evident here. Special -- the State
Hospital, the county court house, Smith College, the Clark School, the development of the city from the 1970's to now, and the rivers.
Northampton was one of the first cities to be incorporated the old buildings & those that have historical meaning (Calvin Coolidge blogs,
City Hall/Pratt architecture, etc.) & the signature blgs in downtown/Florence/Baystate & Leeds should be protected so they are here for
generations to come. Our past is important, yet we must make room w/in preservation for the future (its architecture, tech &
infrastructure needs) into our community.
Its character as a "mixed-use" community, with a mix of well-taken-care-of old structures together with significant new, seems rare
these days, and the proximity to five important colleges/universities, and the presence of a significant cultural life makes Northampton a
very special place to live.
Preservation of past structures and ways of life for a sense of continuity and as a comparison with the present.
Historic Character, to me, is that quality in a building or neighborhood that is the site of significant historic events OR sites where the
architectural qualities or "character" of a building or neighborhood are important to preserve because of how they express the city itself
in unique or important ways. I don't know enough about other communities in the Pioneer Valley yet to comment on the second part of
the question.
"Historic character" is not defined by buildings, but by the lives and characters of individuals who lived therein.
500 characters? You gotta be kidding. The whole city is a gem. The fact that growth has been static for decades helped to save the 19th
and 20th century neighborhoods and surrounding farms and forests. From Smith College to Smith Vocational, the bike trails... there is
something special on every street.
The ranking question is ridiculous: all of the choices are inter-related.
Architectural or cultural significance. Main Street and Elm Street districts are prime examples of many architectural styles.
I love the buildings in downtown and some of the old farm buildings in Florence. If historic buildings can be re-used that’s great but let’s
not get crazy calling everything historic and trying to keep Northampton looking the same forever.
Grid patterned streets, with sidewalks and porches in close proximity to places worth walking/biking to. Places with high walk-scores.
ANR enabled sprawl has built neighborhoods that won't see their 100th anniversary.
The social history and visual appearance of the built environment, including downtown, neighborhoods. and villages
The charm of the downtown architecture and open space, draws visitors to the region, and is an important part of economic stability
and growth.
12
Historical buildings and the history of various movements (abolition, right to vote, etc)
Northampton's downtown is where historic preservation is most important. The attractiveness of its architecture and its walkability are
features which will always make it a draw for tourists and locals alike and thus its preservation is essential for its continued viability as a
center of commerce and activity.
The scale of the buildings and the architectural detail of the buildings
In addition to some obvious examples of architecture that point to Northampton's commercial/industrial history (eg downtown business
district, some bldgs in Leeds, Baystate Village, and Florence), and our role in the abolitionist movement, Northampton's historic
character is uniquely defined by its many neighborhoods that each have their own sense of scale and architectural features. Also the
town's relationship to the Mill River offers great historic value.
I like that the city stewards look at "historic character" through the lens of sustainability and climate change.
Q12 - How would you describe Northampton's stewardship of its existing
city-owned historic resources?
155 Responses
Excellent [12%, 18]Satisfactory [50%, 78]Neutral [14%, 21]Unsatisfactory [7%, 11]
I don't know [17%, 27]Prefer not to answer [0%, 0]
12%50%14%7%17%
Q13 - What do you think is (are) the role(s) of historic preservation in
Northampton? Please select up to three. - Selected Choice
154 Responses
Choice Count
Connecting today's culture ...
Keeping the city beautiful ...
Ensuring that Northampton's ...
Promoting historical and ...
Reusing Northampton's ...
None of the above
Other (please describe)
103
106
68
37
86
1
8
Q13_7_TEXT - Other (please describe) - Text
8 Responses
Other (please describe) - Text
13
To prevent the city from turning into a monstrocity of new ugly buildings, more bare of trees, more touristy with more pot shops and
less innovative small businesses. It's arguable that savings costs on large complexes is really more affordable for the people buying in but
might just be cutting into the profit margins of developers. Do not destroy our treasured beautiful buildings, invest in them.
Educating our citizenry on our history, including our children. Protecting (including upkeep) our parks and conservation areas.areas.
Accessibility
None of these selections seem quite right. Historic preservation is an economic development strategy, a sustainability tool, an arts and
culture initiative, and much more.
Protecting the embodied energy of historic masonry and heavy timber framed buildings.
I don't think much of Northampton--its focus on money is abhorrent! There is no creativity, and Northampton is on the decline.
Northampton should change, historic precedent should not take precedent over doing what’s best for our future.
Rewrite of above: Ensuring that Northampton's growth and new development support, protect, and leverage the city's existing historical
assets.
Q14 - Are there specific buildings/structures, neighborhoods,
architectural styles, or property types (residential, commercial, industrial)
in Northampton that you think need more protection? If so, please share.
(1000-character max)
94 Responses
buildinghistoric
churchneighborhood
old
st
city
street
area
downtownprotectiondistrict
house
housingcharacter main
afford
florence
residential
northampton
elm
protectarchitecture
baystate
development
home structurehistorical
important
preserve private
property
space
3
empty
i'm
make
mill parksite
threaten
town
abandonedbay
better
cemetery
century
factory
family
livelocal
maintain
mary
open
people
public
south
storefront
sustain
vacant
village
19th
adequate
brick
business
buy
center
change
class
commercial
community
condo cpa
define
designate
early
experience
hawley
i'd
identify
infill
landscape
long
lower
parson
provide
story
support
torn
2
5
academy
actual
america
amount
animal
appearance
arrangement
attention
best
14
Q14 - Are there specific buildings/structures, neighborhoods,
architectural styles, or property types (residential, commercial, industrial)
in Northampton that you think need more protection? If so, please share.
(1000-character max)
94 Responses
Are there speci c buildings/structures, neighborhoods, architectural styles, or property types
(residential, commercial, industrial) in Northampton that you think need more protection? If so,
please share. (1000-character max)
Ward 3 Montview neighborhood; Bay State Village, downtown Florence; old carriage houses; build up along busy roads not destroy
hisotoric character of neighborhoods, take away views... West Street from the skateboard park up to West and Elm would be a good
example. another gateway I neverheard talked about.
Having neighborhoods where people can walk. Having a diverse mix of housing, including affordable housing. Having parks,
conservation areas, community gardens, playgrounds and recreation areas that are accessible, maintained and utilized.
Historic churches are especially vulnerable because they are hard to reuse. Traditional urbanism and architecture (not the same thing)
are important in all areas that have historic character. New development should fit into its context and follow traditional urban patterns.
I think Market Street and the cemetery use some resources. It’s an overlooked but important part of town.
I would love to see as much as possible, of all types, preserved, but also updated with ADA improvements and safety and efficiency
updates, as much as possible. I would love to see the city have a hand in enabling private and public entities to make those updates-- with
both logistic and financial support.
I would love to see the Bridge St Cemetery fence continue to be improved, esp along Parsons. I live nearby, and it's already so much
better having an extra gate! And so much prettier.
I live in the Baystate area that is under threat from developers and development that threaten the neighborhood's character, its
affordability, and its ability to evolve in a sustainability-focused way.
Most of the buildings in downtown (Pleasant St. King St. Main St and Elm St.)
I would like to see the empty spaces (some being empty for over 10 years) in the city's downtown district filled with businesses that are
not restaurants but sell actual items that residents may desire and afford to purchase.
More protection for the earlier historic neighborhoods downtown from demolition and/or inappropriate redevelopment
Pomeroy Historic District,
There is extensive research demonstrating that designated historic districts serve exclusionary ends; they have nothing to do with
sustainability and everything to do with people in power controlling aesthetics and the use of land. So: no, nothing needs more
protection. The city should instead provide tax credits for the reuse of existing structures where possible while eliminating barriers to
development that keep housing prices out of reach of too many people.
Eric Suher's buildings need protection, but I'm not sure how the city can force him to preserve his buildings.
St. Mary's
any other abandoned old churches
15
We should have a program to designate individual landmarks to provide them with adequate protection under local law.
Main Street (although I would support some changes to promote safety and climate sustainability); the South Street neighborhood; the
State Street/Elm St area; the Pomeroy Terrace/Hawley Street neighborhood; Baystate; Main Street/Pine Street/So. Main St of Florence.
Academy of Music; First Churches; Unitarian Church; City and Memorial Halls; Thornes; Pleasant Street buildings.
I feel the built environment of the 19th century and early 20th century define historical Northampton. That is not to say that more
recent buildings are not also important and positive additions to the town, but I believe that the earlier buildings need more protection.
small-lower class mill building homes.
Churches and lovely old buildings that will be torn down to make condominiums like the one near Hawley street. I DO like what they
did to that old house on bridge/Main Street that’s now affordable housing. I also like the new fence on the graveyard on bridge street.
St Mary's Church downtown
I think the CBD Architecture board has done well in protecting the character of downtown.
Bay State
As mentioned above, I think many private historic homes--such as on South Street and other neighborhoods that are not as well off as
Elm Street, for example--need help from the city and nonprofits to help repair and maintain their exteriors. Downtown buildings also
need help--and possibly pressure--to maintain their historic character. Many of the awnings on storefronts downtown are in terrible
shape and distract from the historic nature of the buildings above the storefronts. Adding shade trees to downtown would also improve
the appearance and experience of being downtown.
Yes — City-owned structures warrant a higher level of maintenance expenditures and upkeep to preserve them for future generations.
Long-standing vacant historically-significant properties should be acquired, and/or subject to a ‘vacancy tax’ (as done in Arlington MA,
among others) to help encourage their re-use and/or transfer to new owners.
We need to provide serious preservation options for private owners of important historical houses. Since the only option to enforce
conformance to historical preservation is the local historic district like Elm Street, and since many of the most threatened properties are
in the hands of owners least able to do right by there houses, the City should encourage and help fund from CPA renenues, an NGO
that would act as a funding source and best practices reference for preservation friendly renovations, and protection of these properties
as owners change hands.
The Nonotuck/Park/Pine St/Meadow St area of Florence is of critical importance for local and national abolitionist history. The
buildings and the landscape help tell that important story and the city should help preserve those landscapes. Also the cemeteries like
Park St. needs to be better preserved and city money- maybe CPA- should pay for gravestone repairs. I'd also like to see the city work
with the Ruggles center to create more plaques and online resources to tell this important story.Many people don't know that the
Ruggles center is a site on the National Park Service Underground Railroad Network to Freedom. I'd also like to see more landscape
beautification put into Florence center that works with that historic sensibility.
Main Street, Elm Street district
Along main corridors, It would be nice to see new brick buildings include more historic detail around windows and along the top
parapet. Example being Parsons building in Florence, vs. The new brick building across the street lacking the extra details
Concerned with understanding & protecting rare Native American archeological sites, also concerned with several beautiful unoccupied
churches in Northampton, would like to hear thoughts on how these structures will be used/perserved in the community
Commercial and residential development in the heart of Northampton is too modern-looking and, in some cases, too tall. Historic
churches are definitely threatened. The building behind the Old School Commons building on the corner of Main St. and Old South St.
has been altered but has sat empty for about 20 years.
16
Maintain the downtown buildings of historical interest.
Most preservation seems to be urban-centric. IF there is preservation occurring in the outlying sections of Northampton - ex West
Farms/Lone Town or Roberts Meadows as historic districts, or homes/buildings recognized as early structures, it does not appear to be
happening.
Native American sites, older homes and their lands, older industrial sites can be rehabbed into senior housing
Some of the very oldest buildings in town have either been lost or are in sad shape, such as the Duffy Tire building and the loss of the
former 18th century house on Old South St next to the convenience store.
I do NOT think these defunct Catholic churches should be saved. They are not that special and redeveloping them is an expensive
nightmare.
The areas of the city that are the 19th century working class, the small homes that housed large families.
Don't know enough to have an opinion
Challenge of using old churches, not necessarily to fully protect them, but what to do with them.
Barrett St Marsh and adjoining bike trail
Most of the urban centers of Northampton and Florence that contain the origins of those areas. We should be avoiding tear-downs and
infill development out of character with historic surroundings.
No.
Buildings downtown, buildings in Florence. I would rely on folks with historic experience and knowledge to identify specific buildings,
neighborhoods, etc.
Yes, old historic residences and churches.
Stop giving private developers large amounts of public funds to save the outside of a non-public building (e.g. Church on Hawley St.)
We shouldn't pay them off to respect architecture, it should be the expected standard, the cost of doing business. Stop letting developers
tear down a single houses and put multiple expensive structures. In-fill will not fix the housing crisis if no one who lives here can afford
to buy or rent. Discourage developers, stop trying to be Cambridge or Berkley.
Residential Infill should be consistent with neighborhood. Infill that produces housing that is not affordable ( in the real sense if what is
affordable) should not be allowed. Lumber Yard and Live155(?) seem to examples of needed housing that blends well in downtown.
More protection and representation of the poorer classes' housing, industry, political tides
Yes, also lack of colonial appearance in new commercial or remodeled buildings
No. I think existing protections are more than adequate
St. John Cantius Church, all downtown buildings
;'k;k;k;k
Not that I can think of...
Many of the buildings are privately owned. Better monitoring of the conditions of housing--particularly multi-family rentals--that are
in decline. Glad to see support for St. John Cantius Church. Are there grants for upkeep of buildings (downtown buildings with vacant
storefronts, Crutchins Programs buildings in the Pomeroy Historic District) that could support private owners?
It's not a protection issue as much as it is a usage issue. There are too many vacant storefronts and that lack of vibrancy can't be offset
by historic preservation - the two pieces need to be worked on together.
Factory and church buildings. The big brick buildings of the area.
17
New Condos, which are very pricey these days, are "invading" middle and lower income areas. Also, Surprised at the imposing
architecture of a proposed (green?) building/development on King street, which I read about in the paper. Pretty ugly.
Forest ecosystems, affordable living arrangements
St. Mary's -- not sure how to do this, and it may be pressure on the diocese to work with whatever resources (Smith College?) are
available to preserve this building that soars above the City before it needs demolishing. More movement on protecting/fixing
cemeteries, esp. West Farms. On another front, I have noticed a number of residential properties in the Prospect St. area that DO need
to be demolished. I'm surprised the building department hasn't condemned them and moved demolition forward.
yes the abandoned churches and native sites
Vernacular architecture in workingmen’s neighborhoods.
‘
I'd like to see buildings protected by finding new uses for them when they are no longer serving their original purposes--the big church
on Elm St, for example. I wouldn't want to see it torn down, but I hate that it's been sitting there empty.
Several prominent and attractive former churches have been vacant for MANY years. Could the city do more to make these sites re-
usable, and not just for more overpriced condos?
I'm concerned about the status of the city's economic base in terms of the buildings downtown. I've heard that a couple individuals own
most of the bldgs and charge a lot of rent and have a high tolerance for keeping storefronts empty. I think that threatens the long-term
viability, vitality, and character of the downtown district. Not sure if the city or commission has a role to play in this dynamic, but I
think they definitely might.
Residential Neighborhoods that are experiencing infill construction. New housing needs to "fit in" with asthetics and scale
residential and main streets
Buy St. Mary's Church for the Resilience Hub.
There needs to be a better appreciation of the fact that "old" and "historic" are not synonymous.
DK
City Hall,
All of the abandoned churches in town.
Very glad to hear the old Baptist Church building is geared for use for community.
Any old buildings that are reasonably sustained for use.
Perhaps help sustaining the character of common buildings in historical Laurel Park. :)
Main St. and Victorian Era architecture.
Old Northampton Jail building (Coolidge Park Condominiums); historic properties in town that are vacant (eg, Calvin Theater,
churches)
I really have no idea to be totally honest. A public education about this would be most helpful. I see the CPA as serving to build up
affordable housing first and foremost.
Academy of Music Theatre, Forbes Library, Historic Northampton and the buildings that line Main Street Northampton and Florence
Figuring out re-use of abandoned/empty churches rather than see them fall into disrepair until they need to be torn down. Keeping a
focus on walkability - traffic mitigation.
No
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The ordinary open spaces, farmland and working landscapes that frame developed areas, as well as the older neighborhoods that are
changing with redevelopment.
1) Market Street, North Street, Parsons Street, Woodmont Road, Day Avenue, and Bates Avenue in Ward 3, 2) Bay State Village in
Ward 5, and 3) Montview in Ward 3
N'ton has a rich selection of brickwork design. Off the top of my head: both sides of lower Main Street, a Finn Street residence, the
Parsonage on Elm St - all worthy of a coffee-table art book. I'd be very unhappy to lose any of them.
I think our historic municipal buildings and our historic mill buildings need more investment and attention. I think some of the older
row houses and mill housing of Florence should have been considered for protection but was not. Additionally, the mill river's
structure, banks, spillways and canals seem significant and do not seem to be adequately protected.
Major historic structures like public buildings, churches, and institutions. I do not believe private homes should be subject to historic
guidelines unless they are in a designated historic district, and I think the regulated areas of a home should be confined to areas that can
be seen from a public street.
Neighborhoods and their character. Northampton has several distinct, identified neighborhoods, which is one of the things that makes it
unique in its development. We should protect that. Neighborhood Conservation Districts might facilitate that!
One of the truly special things in BayState (the part of Northampton I know best) is the ample amount of open space, with houses often
not strictly conforming to a grid-like block-after-block arrangement. This open space needs to be protected, for both people and the
many animals that live and roam in those spaces.
Baystate in Florence should resume its affordability and increase its diversity.
The Baystate neighborhood needs some protection. I'm not opposed to some of the new residential building (could be a LOT worse!),
but the character of the neighborhood seems threatened in areas where new houses are being built SO CLOSE together, sacrificing the
bit of open space between properties that characterizes the neighborhood. There's a tipping point where too much of this type of new
construction (not by the homeowners themselves) challenges the character & importance of Baystate.
Baystate Village is already in the process of being destroyed. The old mill worker houses and open spaces for growing food and raising
animals are the history of this neighborhood, along with its relative affordability for working families.
Bay State Village, an almost intact 19th century mill village, has twice been positively evaluated for local historic district status. Residents
of Bay State generally object to the LHC restrictions, preferring to preserve the character and landscape of the village more than actual
19th century architecture itself, though all the old houses have their own stories. More Form Bs are in the pipeline.
Baystate Neighborhood residential properties and former factories
Neighborhoods, factories, open spaces.
Florence Village Center's residential neighborhoods within 2-3 blocks of Rt 9 is a completely intact civil war industrial village that has 0
protection. Danger, danger, danger.
Ward 3; neighborhoods with multi-family residential housing in historic buildings.
The central business district, and historic districts that have been defined.
Rural areas of the city, and in the city. Ward 3 and Ward 4 and Ward 5 and Ward 6 and Ward 7
Car lots we need to look on how they are designed.We need to make sure for instance in a historical area if a builder buys a older home
and tears it down just to place Condos at the that sire is not the right way to go.Save the house for a ist home buyer .
I'm not sure they need more protection, but the downtown landmark buildings and three story brick theme commercial buildings are
vitally important to keep. At the moment, the most important thing is to replace the old registry of deeds building with something that
will be a credit to the downtown.
19
Main street and sides streets - the buildings are generally well-maintained, but the sidewalks and street trees could use some attention.
The factory bldgs along the Mill River have strong historic value. The city could investigate opportunities for creative reuse such as are
occurring in Easthampton. Revisit zoning codes, offer incentives to breathe new life into them. Revisit the possibility of live-work
spaces.
Conduct a city-wide study of residential neighborhoods to identify defining characteristics that are at risk. Even though they may not
technically be “historic” yet, once they are gone, there’s no getting them back.
Some of the neighborhoods off of State Street like Bright Street.
Q15 - How would you describe the results of Northampton's current
historic preservation policies and regulations that protect historic
properties? (Historic resources include all the tangible, surviving
properties and sites that resulted from the activities of all the people who
lived and worked in Northampton in the past. They include buildings,
structures, objects, archaeological sites, areas, burial grounds, and
parks and other landscapes.)
154 Responses
Excellent [10%, 16]Satisfactory [42%, 65]Neutral [16%, 24]Unsatisfactory [10%, 15]
I don't know [22%, 34]Prefer not to answer [0%, 0]
Satisfactory [42%]Neutral [16%]I don't know [22%]
20
Q16 - The City of Northampton currently has a Demolition Ordinance
that requires owners of homes (and other principal structures) built
before 1945 to be reviewed by the Historical Commission before
demolition to determine whether the structure has historical significance.
It may place up to a one-year delay for the owner to find alternatives to
demolition. In the absence of an approve alternative, demolition may
commence after this period. How effective do you think Demolition
review has been as a preservation tool in Northampton? - Selected
Choice
153 Responses
Very effective [3%, 4]Effective [16%, 24]No opinion or not sure [47%, 72]Weak [16%, 25]
Very ineffective; unsuccessful [6%, 9]Prefer not to answer [1%, 2]Other (please describe) [11%, 17]
Effective [16%]No opinion or not sure [47%]Weak [16%]
Q16_7_TEXT - Other (please describe) - Text
17 Responses
Other (please describe) - Text
Marginally effective in an enviornment of private property and the wimes of owners and also Hist. Comm. members
it's deeply harmful and unfair to property owners, including many lower income people who struggle to maintain old homes and need
the money that would be provided if they could sell them unencumbered by rules like this one
My work with St. John Cantius church taught me a great deal, including my erroneous assumption that if the HC had jurisdiction, they
could require alternative proposals for repurposing the structure within that 12-month delay period. If that were the case, I would think
the 12-mo delay period might be effective. But as it stands, being employed only to pause demo, not really encourage/force alternative
options for reuse, i think it is ineffective for the overall goal of preservation.
I was going to just chose very effective, but have worked to protect three properties with two successful and one failure. Would like to
discuss my experiences with you.
I support this law, and would welcome additional regulations.
Don't know enough about this.
Generally the market supports historic buildings as they tend to have character that people pay a premium for. The exception is
churches which there are too many of as I’ve stated above.
I don’t know
I support the re-configuration of the committee that could not vote on the Hawley St. church due to multiple conflicts of interest.
somewhat effective; very necessary
21
While generally effective, I believe the ordinance has, on occasion, been used to unnecessarily delay (or even halt) structures that have
outlived their usefulness.
Moderately effective but can also waste time and resources.
I think the time period is acceptable if not too long, but the fee should be higher to discourage developers more.
Does anyone know how many times a Demolition Delay has been followed by the property in question being restored or repurposed
rather than demolished? Not very often, or hardly at all, I suspect.
Was this implemented in Handzel’s properties in Bay State?
I support this ordinance generally speaking to encourage adaptive re-use but a year is a loooooong time
Numerous developers plan for a 1 year delay and they begin demolition as the clock strikes 12. Times up. Let the dumpster-filling begin.
Q17 - To what extent do you think the following regulations and
guidelines help N...
153 Responses
Excellent Satisfactory Neutral Unsatisfactory I don't know
Design Guidelines (e.g., Elm ...
Zoning Overlay Districts and ...
Secretary of the Interior's ...
0 50 100 150
21
10
12
62
36
32
17
20
17
8
16
4
43
70
83
Q18 - How would you describe the support of Northampton's existing
historic prese...
151 Responses
Excellent Satisfactory Neutral Unsatisfactory I don't know
Cultural connection to ...
Preservation of historic ...
Ensuring compatible ...
Economic development
Environmental protection and ...
0 50 100 150
13
17
5
5
8
57
61
33
28
34
26
22
25
33
36
12
13
47
24
21
42
36
37
59
51
22
Q19 - There is grassroots interest in preserving historic neighborhoods
in Northampton that are not currently designated as historic district.
Which of the following is most important to you?
142 Responses
Ensuring the architectural character of historic buildings is protected with alterati...
Limiting the size, scale, setback, and density of new construction that replaces a de...
Reducing the impact of construction on signi cant trees or other natural features of...
34%39%27%
Additional feedback - Is there any additional feedback about historic
preservation in Northampton that you would like to share? (1000-
character max)
70 Responses
historicpreservation
building
city
northampton
neighborhood
development
downtown
economic
housing
plan
preserve
questionsurveydistrict
architecture make
support
better
construction
design
good
historical
important public
resident
space
town
accessible
addressafford
center
change
character
church
community
current
developer
history
improve
infrastructure
live
maintain
old
people
property
unique
3
again
allow
appreciate
beautiful
business
createdemolition density
don’t
effort
energy
funds
future
government
green
growth
hard
house
i'minteresting
issue
lack
landscape
last
love
main
multi
past quality
regulation
review
street
structure
sustain
tree
work
years
102
additional
against
america
answer
attractive
barn
baystate
benefit
bit
box
built
choice
citizen
70 Responses
Is there any additional feedback about historic preservation in Northampton that you would like to
share? (1000-character max)
Old buildings are being sacrificed to investments over newly restored main houses or old houses to be demolished with little or no effort
to preserve them. In other words, there is no will to preserve old historic buildings, they are always deemed removable if too costly to
upgrade. I do not agree with this as others have proved things can be upgraded and made livable. It's the money class making the
decisions, calling an old structure a "dump" over an ideal of new and costly/unaffordabl to renters and some buyers, pricing locals out....
Allow more density in residential neighborhoods and more housing in and near downtown, increasing density but with safeguards to
ensure architectural quality and preservation of traditional development patterns and street trees. We need the housing, but it should be
compatible.
I think it is extremely important to make all buildings, including those of a historical nature, accessible to all people. I believe this should
be central to any new construction and a guiding force for renovation of existing structures.
Accessibility to buildings for all, not just the able bodied.
Accessibility is an issue with many historic sites. Business owners need access to funds exclusively for the purpose of addressing this
issue.
23
I am in the midst of updating a historical commercial building downtown to make the first floor wheelchair- accessible. I have been
shocked and appalled at the lack of funding, let alone just the difficulty in obtaining information about how to achieve this. It was rarely
clear whom I should be contacting about rules and regulations or what contractors might be good to work with. I would love to see our
town full of beautiful old buildings that have been updated for wheelchair accessibility and other modern efficiency and safety standards.
I believe it's possible, but some guidance-- and if possible, funding-- from the historic preservation commission would be helpful for
historic building owners to work on this.
CPA funds must be spent strictly on keeping and improving the historic integrity of the buildings, structures and objects regardless of
the ownership of property.
Only that I became aware of this survey accidently. I do not go to the city's website for my city news. I rely (and am often disappointed)
on the city reaching out to its residents in a more open engaging manner
The last question offers three options again asking us to rank, trees, live-able architectural growth, or architectural design oversite.
They are not competing goals-
This survey is designed to frame the conversation and stifle a more comprehensive conversation about Historic Preservation role.
This survey seems to have been written with the prior conviction that historic preservation is an unqualified social good. In fact, much
research exists demonstrating the contrary. But if city elites and their friends in municipal government (aided by for-hire planners) are
determined to use preservation to impose a certain vision of what the city should be on the rest of the population, it's difficult to imagine
that comments like this one will fall on any but deaf ears.
I have offered to participate in any way that the city (Carolyn) might find useful, especially in Historic Preservation support. I reiterate
that offer here to whomever is reading this. I love Northampton! On the DNA Board.
In my five years here, I have been most impressed with Northampton's P & S Dept. The degree to which staff seeks public opinion (such
as this survey & downtown planning meetings the past several years) is commendable. The combination of Planning with Sustainability
is unique, in my experience. They need to be combined if we are to save this planet, obviously, but this city puts that into practice in
many ways. For ex, I absolutely LOVE that we have a tree warden! I consider maintaining and expanding the green in this city
uppermost importance. Rich is very helpful and knowledgeable; I volunteered to help with planting trees for a bit til my knees protested.
Also, I love that DPW encircles trees around the areas for planned construction of roads or sidewalks.
We need additional staff resources. The City should hire a full time dedicated preservation planner to staff the Architectural Review
commission for downtown and the Historic Commission, coordinate training for both boards, and to help implement the plan, be a
liaison with Community Preservation, Planning, local historical groups, residents with questions about historic properties, elected
officials, and the public.
The plan should recommend the formation of a local or regional advocacy organization (perhaps with other nearby communities or at
the regional scale with Springfield Preservation Trust).
The plan should recommend a process to seek approval for a local landmarks ordinance and designate 10 individual local landmarks by
2030 in recognition of Northampton’s unique historic built environment and significance in state and national history.
Much more education around preservation is needed.
We should implement a major initiative to recognize and document queer history
I appreciate the work that's being done on this.
24
The city places too much emphasis on protecting private property, including churches. This is living in the past, and preventing us
from moving forward together. Design standards are crucial, and it's appropriate to require neighborhood compatibility, but new
construction and significant renovations should be allowed. I'm saying this as a person who deeply values many of the historic
structures and spaces within the city, and supports their preservation.
Thank you for creating this survey
Northampton has citizens who are concerned and hard working working on it and that is essential -- IF the city listens and cooperates.
I got to participate in the Historic Society's Barn Pull, and it was so cool and interesting; I deeply appreciated both learning more and
feeling like part of my community pitching in. I think that space will become a wonderful learning and event space that supports our
community.
I'm also really excited about the current community hub plans, which develop an unused historic building into something that will really
benefit our town.
On the flip side, I feel very frustrated about how much money the city paid the developer to keep the church. The building is certainly
lovely, but those funds could have gone to much better use -- and there were so many other options for that space (for example if the
church hadn't discounted the possibility of being an arts center). I don't think it's right to use city funds for things that just have the
appearance of a historic space. I think it needs to matter that those spaces support our community (as well as ideally our sustainability
goals).
I have no problem with increasing density in neighborhoods close to downtown and encouraging infill.
Thanks for working on this.
good luck
Thank you!
The Florence Abolition & Reform National Historic District and the African Americans, Abolition, & Reform in Northampton, MA
1820-1900 MPD Form are in the hands of MHC. Here are both: https://bit.ly/3XInwDz Please do not share. The NHC approved
these submissions and supported the David Ruggles Center with the work. Having these properties gain regional and national attention
will attract visitors. Public understanding of how important and unique the story of Northampton Abolition and Reform is will be
expanded by these designations which include original "preserved" properties of institutions such as Florence Savings Bank, Hill
Institute, Florence Congregational Church, Lilly Library, City Hall, People’s Institute, and Dewey, Duckett, and Mary Ellen Chace
houses and Lilly Hall of Science at Smith College. Geater City support of owners and developers to find a preservation solution during
the demolition delay period, as was done with the DRC where City support was essential.
Northampton can be more of an historic tourist destination- the city should be proud of and capitalize on that history (Underground
Railroad, Jonathan Edwards, Sojourner Truth, David Ruggles,NAEI, Lydia Maria Childs, Sophia Smith, immigration history, WW2
refugees etc). and tell the neg. sides too-- the slavery, etc---Northampton history is American history. Northampton is uniquely
beautiful w/ its historic buildings, neighborhoods and landscapes and has a history that connects to our lives today. I'd like the city to
invest in this history, supporting the research, programs, exhibits and more plaques and kiosks. Florence needs more businesses (not
pot shops) to help retain its historic quality. . Northampton can think of ourselves as an oasis and can welcome a diversity of people from
neighboring communities to enjoy our history and green spaces. Northampton needs to improve the visitor infrastructure (trash cans
etc).
Thank you for requesting input, I am inspired to seek more information & to become better informed & involved...
It's difficult to discuss this question without observing that the entire character of downtown Northampton has been destroyed due to
the city's refusal to properly address the unhomed situation. I moved here in 2004. The current state of the town is a disgrace. No
historic preservation will restore what's been lost without restoration of a safe, clean Northampton.
25
This survey is poorly conceived, hard to understand, and over the head of the general public.
Thanks for offering the survey.
The current zoning that allows for McMansions and multi-level condos jammed into small, previously one home lots is a disgrace! It
ruins the neighborhoods and eliminates even more of the possible lower and middle class housing.
I love old buildings and landscapes. However, I also enjoy good modern design and dislike attempts to require new development to mimic
old styles. Imitation does not flatter, it just confuses. Let new design stand for itself in vibrant contrast to old buildings.
That question is very alarming! People in Northampton need housing, and neighbors should not be able to block development of
housing because of alleged aesthetics or a tree, etc. This is just the new face of NIMBY - it perpetuates economic and racial segregation
and it is repulsive. Our public officials must be strong enough to stand against this dangerous wave of elitism. The white homeowner
mob must not be able to rule.
The last answer should have allowed ticking all 3 boxes. Will the survey make any difference to the projected inbuilding of city
gateways?
No
We can do more with less bureaucracy. Create beautification corps. Address immediate road infrastructure issues D’Town to make
pedestrian use safer. Shame Suher out of town.
you ask how effective historic preservation regs have been and managing growth or spurring economic development, which are not the
purpose of these rules. Additionally you maintain there is “grassroots” support for additional historic districts which has not been my
experience. I think there are people who don’t want additional housing in their neighborhoods for various reasons and are HP regs as a
vehicle to this end.
What action can be taken to ensure that Main St historic building business space is rentable and rented and contributing to the vibrancy
and appeal of Northampton?
The various priority choices listed in one question (economic dev, resiliency, affordability, open space, …) are all related. Prioritization a
bit random. Perhaps, instead, ask for top 2 of 3.
Nice survey, but it's hard to believe that town government will consider any impacts other than economic development in decision-
making. All evidence suggests that $$$ from developers is the only consideration that matters to the town's so-called "planning"
More monuments to historic past, also better new commercial and municipal buildings being design attractive rather than square boxes.
The lack of coordinated architectural “districts” in the past has led to an interesting, polyglot mix which I think is charming. The 7 styles
of architecture of big public buildings from the City Hall to the Library along Main and West Streets would never have been allowed in
an historic district. But it’s really interesting. On the other hand, when I see the City and developers aping the style of the 19th brick
buildings on the other side of Main Street I don’t like it. There’s a Disneyfication aspect to it that stifles architectural creativity.
I think historic preservation is not maybe the right way to try to improve the zoning changes that passed and we’re dramatic and which
take away the current and historic feel of a neighborhood - Misch pushed through zoning stuff many years ago (maybe 10?) that
dramatically influence some poorer neighborhoods while sparing wealthier ones which is agregious and classist and should be addressed.
Preserving our history is wonderful, but let's get more very affordable housing so a greater range of cultures, ages and ethnicities can
add to our future history. Thank you.
The Conserveation Districts proposal is interesting and deserves further review and discussion
very disappointed with the construction of condos on Hawley Street that destroys the character of nearby buildings and the nearby
church
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Historic preservation should be focused on sustainability and reuse. There's no one "aesthetic" that defines Northampton, and there
shouldn't be arbitrary and capricious rules about demolition and building.
I'd like to see historic preservation efforts in the city provide strong collateral benefits (e.g., economic development, affordable housing,
homeless problem, etc.). I have mixed feelings about historic preservation as an end all of its own.
I clearly need to learn more about historic preservation in Northampton. I just don't know much about the process, legal constraints,
etc. Please be sure to include "green infrastructure" (trees, gardens, open spaces etc.) in future planning, regulations and any new
documents.
it doesn't appear to have any impact
I think that Historic Northampton has done amazing work over the last seven or so years. Having formerly resided in the Elm Street
Historic district, I found the city's limitations on renovation and improving energy efficiency overly-burdensome.
GREAT JOB....
I think it us important to preserve historical buildings and structures. I do not believe new construction should be limited by zoning or
some requirement to keep a neighborhood looking a certain way. Literally all you need to do is prevent the demolition of historical
structures, anything else is an undue hindrance on economic development.
In some of these questions, all are important
Keep Northampton weird!
No. This has been a most informative exercise that makes me want to learn more.
I see historic preservation increasingly becoming a NIMBY issue rather than an investment in the economic and lifestyle future of
Northampton. I'm all for historic architecture guidelines to maintain architectural integrity and maintaining properties of significant
historical significance but I' not a fan of keeping properties just because they are old. I would rather have new, energy efficient, cost
effective properties that maintain architectural integrity for the residents of Northampton.
Like sustainability and resilience efforts, historic preservation should be included or considered as a component of all policies,
ordinances, and regulations.
Northampton deserves to have its historic built and natural resources preserved and conserved.
Our historic neighborhoods are just as important as our downtown centers.
Northampton would not be as beautiful without its historic character. It is arguable that it would not be as appealing or attractive to live
in Northampton without its historic architecture and heritage landscapes in tact, and the City may suffer economically if these precious
historic resources were demolished and desecrated.
Remember the multi-color abstract McCallum's facade? Could it happen again?
In the same way that Dept of Interior Standards do not eliminate the possibility of change, planning should celebrate history without
curtailing social evolution. We could do better at telling our story but could also go too far to preserve neighborhoods in scale that does
not support our need to provide housing and updated infrastructure (sidewalks, stormwater systems).
I don’t want to see historic requirements for single-family houses. These requirements are cumbersome and expensive. These
requirements are PRESERVATION to maintain a fixed historic time. Best guidelines are Design Review looking at scale proportion
human-centered design. We should desire good design, not fear change, worrying new is worse than historic. If good design is historic
copy we limit ability to be inspired limit ability to see new/old coexist and limit evolution of the way we live.
I would like to see a "Neighborhood Conservation District" for Baystate with representation by selected residents.
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For the previous question, I would really like to have been able to select both choices 2 and 3. Perhaps a rating system would be better
than asking respondents to just select one?
The maintenance of wildlife corridors is imperative
I will emphasize again the importance of preserving some open space in residential neighborhoods threatened by dense development.
This works against preserving a neighborhood's character.
Northampton city government is in need of a complete overhaul--its incompetence is glaring. Until there is a well-educated, ethical city
manager and directors of city units with expertise and lack of bias, Northampton will continue on its downward path. Recent
promotions in Planning and Zoning exemplify this stultifying malaise.
The question requiring ranking I could not answer because the site wouldn't allow me to do the ranking.
I live in Baystate Village and am not in favor of the NCD being promoted by some in the community. Please do not institute one.
From NTHP: "The apparent success of neighborhood conservation districts can be attributed in part to the program’s high emphasis on
citizen participation. Through the development of the neighborhood plans, residents are required to think about the qualities of their
neighborhood that make it special. They must also think about what is wrong and how those wrongs can be corrected. By being put in
the driver’s seat, residents have come to appreciate their own neighborhoods..."
It seems senseless to preserve antiquated buildings that have been vacant for many years, are energy inefficient and valueless
economically.
We should not limit size of multi family buildings we need dense housing for affordability, walkability, and economic growth. I’d rather
see huge apartment buildings in Northampton then lose farmland to subdivisions in other towns.
Demo delay needs to be made more robust. Major penalties for renegade demos. Protections of barns/carriage sheds. etc.
There is some controversy about encouraging infill and the effect is has on neighborhoods. I understand that some resist change in
their neighborhood, but the closer such a location is to downtown, the more useful it is to allow infill to create more density.