Amherst earns state's planning praises

Published on November 06, 2009

Dedication to protecting open space, supporting mixed-use zoning and using Community Preservation Act funds in a responsible way have earned Amherst one of the highest scores from the state under a program that endorses sustainable land use and planning.

Amherst ranked third among 91 communities that submitted applications to the Commonwealth Capital program this year. The program is used to distribute state grants and low-interest loans that are consistent with sustainable development principles.

Town Manager Larry Shaffer said Amherst's high score, 110 on a scale that runs from 0 to 140, is a testament to Amherst's willingness to invest in sustainable practices. With the high score, Amherst will be better able to tap money from the Executive Offices of Administration and Finance, Energy and Environmental Affairs, Housing and Economic Development, and Transportation and Public Works.

"This allows us to access a significant amount of funding that otherwise would not be available," Shaffer said.

Amherst's score was behind Northampton's 130, which led the state, and Plymouth's 111. Northampton has been the highest scoring community in the state over the five years the program has been in place.

Each score is calculated by measuring 32 aspects of a community's zoning, planning, housing, environmental, energy and transportation efforts.

In the past year, Amherst's Open Space and Recreation Plan has been accepted by the state and the town is close to adopting a master plan that recommends sustainable practices, such as infill in downtown and village centers.

- SCOTT MERZBACH