Pioneer Valley
Planning Commission

Eric Carle Museum, Amherst, MA

Media Release

CONTACT: Jayne Armington, PVPC Planning Specialist (413) 781-6045
Diana Schindler, Southampton Town Administrator (413) 529-0106


FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
March 1, 2011

Southampton Residents to Discuss Areas for Future Growth

Southampton residents will have the opportunity to comment on preliminary locations for zoning districts that will encourage a greater range of housing options and mixed-use development at a public forum Thursday, March 17, 6:00 p.m. at Southampton Town Hall, 210 College Highway.  

Identifying areas for growth can help Southampton accommodate and attract sensible development in the future while maintaining and enhancing its rural character and quality of life. The goal is to designate appropriate areas in the community where new development makes sense, such as areas with concentration of commercial activity or civic uses, while limiting growth in other areas of town.

Two areas along College Highway have been identified as potential growth districts: at the Easthampton/Southampton town line and between Gunn Road and Pomeroy Meadow Road.

The Town of Southampton received a state planning grant in 2010 to help identify appropriate locations for more concentrated and flexible development. The Pioneer Valley Planning Commission, which is providing technical assistance to the Town under the planning grant, will be seeking feedback from the public about these preliminary locations.

For more information about the zoning project, contact Jayne Armington, PVPC Planning Specialist, at (413) 781-6045.