Let’s Talk Housing Amherst! Three Upcoming Events

Source: amherstma.gov

The Town of Amherst is teaming up with local partners to host three opportunities next week for the community to share opinions and learn about housing in Amherst. Attend one or all events on June 11, 12, and 13. Everyone is welcome – residents, stakeholders, and anyone interested in learning about current housing initiatives and sharing their ideas to shape the future of housing in Amherst. 

“There’s no single solution to our housing challenges, but through learning, dialogue and collaboration we can pursue multiple strategies,” said Associate Planner & Housing Coordinator Greg Richane. “Whether it’s through mobilizing Town assets or empowering homeowners, we can make incremental, responsible progress that meets real needs.” 

Gastón de los Reyes, Chair of the Amherst Municipal Affordable Housing Trust (AMAHT), which has played a key role in helping to assess housing needs and explore housing solutions, states: “The Town’s Housing Production Plan has shown that while the vast majority of seniors in Amherst would like to stay here, there are too few affordable alternatives for them to do so. I am particularly excited about the potential of ADUs (auxiliary dwelling units) to make single-family homeownership more affordable while creating right-sized, accessible dwellings for our elders.” 

Carol Lewis, AMAHT member, added “There is a housing crisis in our town, our state, and our nation. I see ADU construction as an important opportunity for Amherst to increase the number, diversity, and affordability of our homes.” 

The town is committed to fostering an inclusive dialogue to address housing needs, affordability, and sustainable development. Community members are encouraged to join the events listed below to participate, share their perspectives, and collaborate on creating effective, equitable housing strategies that meet the diverse needs of Amherst residents.  

Upcoming Events

South Amherst School Redevelopment Visioning Session
Wednesday, June 11, 2025 from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.
Munson Memorial Library (1046 S East St, Amherst, MA 01002)

The Town of Amherst, in partnership with Joy Squared Architects (formerly the Narrow Gate), is exploring possible redevelopment options at the South Amherst School at 1001 South East Street. This process aims to create a plan that reflects community input, zoning considerations, existing physical features, and housing needs. During this visioning session, community members can share ideas, ask questions, and help shape the direction of the project. After this session, Joy Squared Architects will prepare three distinct concepts that will likely vary in density, unit size, building type, and targeted demographics. These concepts will be presented to town stakeholders for feedback and prioritization, guiding more formal development efforts in the future. 

Information Session: Building an Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU)
Thursday, June 12, 2025 from 5:00 p.m. to 6:30 p.m.
Munson Memorial Library (1046 S East St, Amherst, MA 01002)

Curious about adding a small apartment, backyard cottage, or converting space within your home? Join the Amherst Municipal Affordable Housing Trust and participating partners to learn about new regulations, building tips, financing options, and more. Whether you’re just exploring or ready to get started, this event will provide valuable insights! Participating partners include Greenfield Savings Bank, Lighthouse Credit Union, Rare Forms Locally Grown Homes, Wright Builders, Backyard ADUs, and the Town of Amherst Buildings Department. 

Cuppa Joe with Paul and Housing Coordinator Greg Richane
Friday, June 14, 2025 at 8:00 a.m. to 9:30 a.m.
Black Sheep Deli (79 Main St, Amherst, MA 01002)

All community members are welcome to join this informal event to connect with Amherst Town Manager Paul Bockelman and Greg Richane, Associate Planner and Housing Coordinator. The Town is leading several innovative and impactful housing initiatives that Richane will share and answer questions about including updating the Housing Production Plan, exploring shelter and housing concepts for the former VFW site and South Amherst School, developing affordable apartments on South East Street and Belchertown Road, and providing resources to expand housing options such as accessory dwelling units. 

All events can also be found on the Town of Amherst Community Calendar and the Town of Amherst Facebook page.