The following letter was sent to the Amherst Planning Board on March 19, 2025.
I write to you to promote the redesign of the three proposed buildings with mixed use in Atkins Corner. While this is a good area for a reinforced commercial and living variety to create a flourishing village center, the appearance of the three buildings is a little disappointment. Preference surveys of the city dwellers repeatedly show that the residents support buildings with more traditional New England architecture, brick and flap board and people with colors, facades, more details on the roof line, top and mansard roofs, awnings, windows with details and changes in the size of the disc.
I like well -designed, interesting modern buildings like The Eric Carle, which offer something interesting to see and think about them. Three similar box -shaped buildings with the same dark colors and monotonous characteristics simply do not contribute to an attractive, inviting village center that will attract people. People will support an increased density and greater size if the buildings look good and are visually interesting. I recommend that every building look has a different design to avoid monotony and have more details and changes in color, roof lines, windows, facade materials, shop fronts, etc. Lighter colors give interest and positivity. The three buildings need better integration and visual connection to the buildings nearby. I also hit the addition of balconies, awnings, perhaps on roofing and outside of places where people can sit and play children. Maybe a lot, a few basketball tires? In addition, sidewalks have to be wide enough for a special bicycle track, since this section of the West Bay Road is very dangerous.
Since the project representatives are looking for additional heights, I recommend that the planning authority needs more of them in terms of design and amenities. I think that will benefit everyone.
Janet McGowan
Janet McGowan is a former member of the Amherst Planning Board and residents of Amhersts District 5.