In November, Amherst residents learned they will not have a co-op, akin to River Valley Market in Northampton, for the foreseeable future. The decision is deeply disappointing given years of community and financial support from residents envisioning a locally owned grocery option, with the reason being lack of physical space. Not only would building more commercial space have allowed a co-op to open, it would have meant space for other new businesses and more housing for people to afford living in town to enjoy co-op supporters’ vision. This was not inevitable, and Amherst could have addressed this by embracing mixed-use development for added housing and commercial space. Instead, vocal resistance has left Amherst stuck.
When the Town Council appointed new Planning Board members in line with Gov. Maura Healey’s housing goals, one resident opposed the changes, claiming their presence would “divide town politics,” with no evidence supporting his claim. Similar resistance to change has stalled other crucial projects. The elementary school project dragged on for years, contributing to Town Meeting’s demise in 2018. The Jones Library expansion, despite two-thirds voter approval in 2021, faced opposition so extreme someone reported it to Elon Musk’s Department of Government Efficiency, jeopardizing funding until a private company stepped in. Reflexive opposition to growth is far more divisive and harmful to communities than the implementation of big, bold changes.
When I return to Amherst from Somerville, I look for signs of progress, and thankfully I see some. The new elementary school construction is on schedule. Downtown apartments are rising. Town Common expanded, and the Mill District is a community hub. After delays, the Jones Library project is now underway. This proves Amherst can change when it wants to, so why is a co-op out of reach despite years of interest, and success in similar towns? Was there planning for space during discussion? The lack of foresight is troubling.
Mixed-use developments, such as in Somerville, are about community vitality as well as affordability. The MBTA Green Line extension has spurred new housing and business growth near train stations, and pedestrian-friendly spaces like Bow Market are hubs of local culture. Amherst should embrace this risk-taking to be more livable, affordable, and vibrant, then maybe one day a fully functioning co-op can finally open.
Amherst must stop letting wealthy contrarians dictate its future based on narrow, dogmatic notions of “divisiveness,” real divisiveness is blocking progress. Embracing bold changes, building faster, and planning smarter ensures Amherst is for all wishing to call it home. Residents and officials must prioritize mixed-use development projects. Attend Town Council meetings. Support pro-housing candidates. Push for pro-growth zoning reform. If Amherst wants to remain vibrant, it cannot let fear and nostalgia decide its future. We can do hard things if we choose to.
Eric Cochrane lives in Somerville.