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UB, Amherst to cooperate on development
President John B. Simpson (left) and Amherst Supervisor Barry Weinstein sign a memorandum of understanding that will provide a framework for cooperation for development of land near the North Campus. Photo: NANCY J. PARISI
UB and the Town of Amherst have signed an agreement of cooperation for development of land adjacent to the North Campus in ways consistent with the town’s bicentennial comprehensive plan and UB’s comprehensive physical plan, which guides the university’s implementation of the UB 2020 strategic vision to become a model 21st century university.
The memorandum of understanding establishes procedures and guidelines for joint planning and cooperation between the town and UB, and outlines principles that would continue the “framework for cooperation” between UB and the town.
The memorandum was signed recently by Amherst Supervisor Barry A. Weinstein and President John B. Simpson.
It commits UB and Amherst to principles stated in each entity’s long-term comprehensive plan. The town’s “Vision of Amherst in 2018” calls for zoning and planning decisions that would maintain and enhance the “exceptional quality of life for which the town is renowned.” Specifically, the plan is based on three fundamental attributes: livability, community character and shared direction.
UB’s comprehensive plan for building and development, called “Building UB,” states five principles key to continuing the university’s cooperation with its neighboring municipalities: promoting academic excellence, promoting a united and accessible university campus, reflecting the university’s responsibility to the community, providing the basis for long-range capital programming and prudent stewardship of university resources, and establishing UB as a leader in environmental stewardship and sustainable development.
The planning agreement affirms several goals and objectives shared by UB and the Amherst: leading and supporting a model knowledge-based community; acting in a sustainable way for the “long-term well-being of the UB campus, the Town of Amherst and the surrounding region; recognizing responsibility to the community and the importance of partnerships, and creating a vibrant and livable community.”
The agreement does not commit either UB or Amherst to any specific course of action or decision. Instead, it spells out recommendations to guide decisions to be made by both UB and the town when developing land near the North Campus.
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