DRAFT_RRP_Northampton_FundingAssistanceReport_11-24-2021Rapid Recovery Plan- Funding Assistance Report City of Northampton 1
Funding Assistance
Summary Report
City of Northampton
Rapid
Recovery
Planning
Program
2021
Downtown Northampton
Source: Boston Magazine
Rapid Recovery Plan- Funding Assistance Report City of Northampton 2
City of Northampton
Wayne Feiden, Director of Planning &
Sustainability
Acknowledgements
Stantec Consulting Services, Inc.
Michael Clark, Transportation Planner
Whitney Burdge, Transportation Planner
Jason Schrieber, Senior Principal
Heidi Peper, Senior Funding Leader
Amy Broughton, Principal
Whitney Burdge, Transportation Planner
Amelia Casey, Transportation Planner
Michael Clark, Transportation Planner
Simone Heath, Urban Planner
Alison LeFlore, Urban Planner
PVPC
Eric Weiss, Director of Economic and
Municipal Collaboration
RRP Program Background
Introduction
RRP Funding Assistance Approach
Summary/Purpose
Funding Process
Levels of Funding Support
Recommended Approach to Attaining Funding
Northampton: Funding Application Approach & Strategy
Funding Application Best Practice and General
Requirements
Priority Projects: Applicable Funding Program and
Application Process
Project 1: Create a new space dedicated to the training and
housing of start-up enterprises
Project 2: Restructure parking management strategies to
increase vacancy rates for on-street parking
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12
14
15
17
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19
37
Table of Contents
Rapid Recovery Plan- Funding Assistance Report City of Northampton 4
What This Funding Resource Report Provides
The RRP Funding Assistance Program gives RRP communities the opportunity to prioritize funding
opportunities for key projects identified in the RRP Final Plan. This document acts as a framework
and guide that outlines funding needs relative to the priority project(s), funding best practices,
targeted funding programs, and grant pursuit strategies. Through working with communities to
address particular needs and opportunities, the RRP Funding Assistance Team aims to develop
tailored guidance that will position each community to have a successful outcome when pursuing
RRP project funding opportunities with the State, non-profits and Federal resources.
Ultimately, this report includes a Community Funding Alternative Matrix based on the community’s
identified needs. The report outlines funding options and a recommended sequence for pursuing
funding. Grant timing, capital available, competitiveness, application and compliance requirements,
and other key attributes have been included in this final report.
The report is organized to provide the following information:
• RRP Program Background – This section provides an overview of the Rapid Recovery Program,
its goals, involved communities, and phases. The three phases developed through the RRP
program involved robust data collection efforts, the creation of publicly-vetted project ideas,
and the development of a final plan.
• RRP Funding Assistance Program Process & Overview – This section documents the process
for RRP communities to apply for funding assistance and identify priority projects from their
RRP Final Plan. It also outlines the various levels of funding assistance that is determined for
each community applicant as well as funding program categories as defined by the State and
RRP Funding Assistance Team.
• Recommended Approach to Attaining Funding – Developing an approach to pursue grant
programs can help communities prioritize funding programs and identify opportunities based
on internal capacity, level of effort, and project readiness. This section includes funding
application best practices, key components to include in grant program applications, and
immediate next steps for RRP communities.
• Priority Projects and Applicable Funding Programs – This portion of the report includes the
RRP Final Plan project rubrics for the identified priority project(s). The Funding Assistance
Team developed a matrix of funding resources that provides details such as grant program
goals, eligible use of funds, level of effort to apply, and grant program maximum amount.
Rapid Recovery Plan- Funding Assistance Report City of Northampton 5
Rapid Recovery Plan Program Background
Peabody
Source: Stantec
Rapid Recovery Plan- Funding Assistance Report City of Northampton 6
EXECUTIVE OFFICE OF
This plan has been made
possible through technical
assistance provided by the
Baker-Polito Administration’s
Rapid Recovery Planning
program.
The Rapid Recovery Planning (RRP) program is a key part of
the Baker-Polito Administration’s Partnerships for Recovery
Plan, the strategy established to help communities stabilize
and grow the Massachusetts economy as a result of the
economic impacts brought on by COVID-19. The plan invests
$774 million in efforts to get people back to work, support
small businesses, foster innovation, revitalize downtowns,
and keep people in stable housing.
In addition to the planning program, recovery efforts include
a Small Business Relief Program administered by the
Massachusetts Growth Capital Corporation. This program,
which concluded in May 2021, provided more than $687.2
million to over 15,000 businesses across the Commonwealth,
with a focus on businesses located in Gateway Cities,
among demographic priorities, or operating in sectors most
impacted by the pandemic. Cities, towns, and non-profit
entities are using Regional Pilot Project Grant Program
funding for recovery solutions that seek to activate vacant
storefronts, support regional supply chain resiliency, and
create small business support networks. To promote recovery
in the tourism industry and support the ongoing My Local
MA marketing initiative encouraging residents to support
their local economies by shopping, dining and staying local,
another $1.6 million in grants were awarded through the new
Travel and Tourism Recovery Grant Pilot Program. Through
April 2021, MassDOT’s Shared Streets and Spaces Grant
Program has invested $26.4 million in municipal Shared
Streets projects to support public health, safe mobility, and
renewed commerce.
In support of the overall recovery strategy, the Administration
made $9.5 million in awards for 125 communities to create
Rapid Recovery Plans, through the MA Downtown Initiative
Program. These plans address the impacts of COVID-19 on
local downtowns and small businesses by partnering with
Plan Facilitators and Subject Matter Experts to pursue
locally-driven, actionable strategies.
For more information,
contact DHCD:
100 Cambridge St, Suite 300
Boston, MA 02114
617-573-1100
mass.gov/DHCD
Rapid Recovery Plan- Funding Assistance Report City of Northampton 7
The Mass Downtown Initiative
distributed nearly $10 million
across 125 communities
throughout the Commonwealth
to assess impacts from
COVID-19 and develop
actionable, project-based
recovery plans tailored to the
unique economic challenges in
these downtowns, town centers,
and commercial districts.
125 communities participated in the Rapid
Recovery Plan Program
52 Small Communities
51 Medium Communities
16 Large Communities
6 Extra Large Communities
Northampton
Rapid Recovery Plan- Funding Assistance Report City of Northampton 8
Rapid Recovery Plan (RRP) Program Summary
The Rapid Recovery Plan (RRP) Program was intended to provide every municipality in
Massachusetts the opportunity to develop actionable, project-based recovery plans tailored to
the unique economic challenges and COVID-19 related impacts to downtowns, town centers, and
commercial areas across the commonwealth.
The program provided technical assistance through Plan Facilitators assigned to each community
applicant (e.g., City, town, or nonprofit entity) and Subject Matter Experts who supported the
development of ideas for project recommendations and shared knowledge through best practice
webinars and individual consultations.
Communities and Plan Facilitators were partnered through the program to assess COVID-19
impacts, convene community partners to solicit project ideas and provide feedback, and
develop project recommendations. A plan was developed for each community, summarizing
key findings from the diagnostic phase of the program and including a range of priority project
recommendations.
Each Rapid Recovery Plan was developed across three phases:
• Phase 1 - Diagnostic; Phase 2- Project Recommendations; and Phase 3 - Plan Development.
In Phase 1 - Diagnostic, Plan Facilitators utilized the Rapid Recovery Plan Diagnostic Framework
that was adapted from the award-winning Commercial DNA approach as published by the Local
Initiative Support Corporation (LISC).
Following the diagnostic efforts in Phase 1, Plan Facilitators, in close coordination with
communities, developed and refined a set of recommendations that addressed priority challenges
and opportunities. These project recommendations were organized in clear and concise rubrics
created specially for the Rapid Recovery Plan Program. Project recommendations are rooted in
a set of essential and comprehensive improvements across six categories: Public Realm, Private
Realm, Revenue and Sales, Administrative Capacity, Tenant Mix, Cultural/Arts & Others.
The framework was designed to ensure a methodical diagnosis of challenges and opportunities in
each community and to identify strategies and projects that aligned with the interests and priorities
of each community. The framework looks at four areas of analysis: Physical Environment, Business
Environment, Market Information, and Administrative Capacity - each equipped with guiding
questions to direct research conducted by Plan Facilitators.
During Phase 3, Plan Facilitators and the communities’ RRP representatives worked together to
develop the RRP Final Plan, which incorporated all project rubrics as developed through Phase 2,
key findings and summaries from the diagnostic data results, and local and regional best practices
and case studies as communities work to implement their projects.
Rapid Recovery Plan- Funding Assistance Report City of Northampton 9
RRP Funding Assistance Approach
Walpole
Source: Stantec
Rapid Recovery Plan- Funding Assistance Report City of Northampton 10
Funding Assistance Summary
The Rapid Recovery Plan (RRP) Program was intended to provide every municipality in
Massachusetts the opportunity to develop actionable, project-based recovery plans tailored to
the unique economic challenges and COVID-19 related impacts to downtowns, town centers, and
commercial areas across the Commonwealth. The CARES Act and ARPA have made significant
funding resources available to communities across America with similar recovery needs. The
pursuit of this and other financial assistance is the next key step to making many RRP projects a
reality for communities, regardless of their current level of staff capacity. The funding assistance
program is available to each RRP community to help them confidently initiate the funding process
for key projects, with a preference for those that can be implemented in the short-term. Self-
directed funding resources will continue to be available for communities who do not require
assistance at Rapid Recovery Plan (RRP) Program | Mass.gov.
Adequate and early funding to support recovery projects is recognized as a key barrier for most
municipalities. To address this challenge, the RRP is providing funding assistance through individual
consultations. This report summarizes the relevant funding options for specific RRP projects
discussed during a consultation with Northampton and offers tactical recommendations to
securing funding to support community recovery projects.
Rapid Recovery Plan (RRP) Program
Rapid Recovery Plan- Funding Assistance Report City of Northampton 11
STEP 1. Community identifies catalyst projects from RRP
The choice of which 1-2 RRP projects to be reviewed for funding
assistance was determined by the community.
STEP 2. Community applies for funding assistance
Each RRP community was invited to submit a basic application for
specific funding assistance for up to 2 projects. The application included
general information about the community and questions to determine
the appropriate funding assistance for projects identified within a Rapid
Recovery Plan.
STEP 3. Community and funding team initial meeting
Each community received an initial 1-hour online meeting between the
RRP community and a member(s) of the Funding Resource team. The
meeting focused on sharing information about the project, local capacity
to pursue funding, and potential funding options for each project.
The Commonwealth assembled a funding resource team comprised of consultants to help
identify appropriate funding sources, application requirements, key aspects to highlight in
applications, expected levels of effort, grant timelines, etc. In some cases, regional planning
agency (RPA) staff participated in the process.
The following process was outlined to help communities finalize and pursue their preferred
funding sources.
Rapid Recovery Program Funding Process
STEP 4. Community Funding Alternatives Matrix
Following the initial meeting, the Funding Resource team created a
Community Funding Alternatives Matrix based on each community’s
identified needs. This includes outlined funding options and a
recommended sequence for pursuing funding.
STEP 5. Final Document Created
The summary document was prepared to include community-specific
details about grant timing, funding program capital availability and
competitiveness, and application and compliance requirements.ADMIN
CAPACITY
Rapid Recovery Plan- Funding Assistance Report City of Northampton 12
The community is sufficiently resourced
and self-directed. Funding team support
will stop after the initial call.
During the initial community meeting, staff discussed four levels of potential community
support available, generally identified as follows:
Rapid Recovery Program Levels of Funding Assistance
After the initial call and delivery of a
Community Funding Alternatives Matrix, a
follow-up call of up to 1-hour will be held
with the community to review the available
funding related to the project(s) and provide
direction on how to access the information
related to the funding resource(s) and any
insights on how to strengthen a potential
application.
For communities with limited staff
capacity, the same assistance as Level 1
will be provided, as well as up to 2-hours of
follow-up emails and call(s).
For communities seeking extra assistance,
Level 2 review and assistance will be
provided, plus an additional 2-hours
of emailed edits/comments on the
community’s grant(s) application materials.
Level
0 Level
1
Level
2 Level
3
Rapid Recovery Plan- Funding Assistance Report City of Northampton 13
Rapid Recovery Program Funding Categories
INFRASTRUCTURE BUSINESS
SUPPORT
ATTRACTION
CULTURAL
ARTS
CAPACITY
BUILDING
PERMITS/
REGULATORY
TOOLS
REDEVELOPMENT
ENVIRONMENT/
OUTDOOR
RECREATION
• Wastewater
• Drinking Water
• Storm Water
• Dams/Levees
• Space Activation
• Business
Recruitment,
Retention and
Expansion
• Cultural District
Formation
• Public Art
• Placemaking
• Cultural Facilities
• Outdoor
Programming
• Community Center
• Community/Economic
Development
• Staff Capacity and
Training
• Planning
• Stakeholder
Engagement
• Zoning/
Regulations
• Permits
• Guidelines
• Housing
• Commercial
Rehabilitation
• Facade
Improvements
• Public Buildings
• Parks
• Open Spaces
• Water Access
• Shoreline
• Habitat
• Brownfields
• Disaster Mitigation/
Recovery/
Preparedness
The Funding Resource Team compiled a comprehensive list of Private, Foundational,
Federal, and State resources within the following categories:
WAYFINDING BRANDING AND
MARKETING MISC.
• Wayfinding • Branding/
Marketing
• Data
• Social Services
• Workforce Development
• Policy/Advocacy
TRANSPORTATION
• Streetscape
• Trails
• Roads
• Bridges
• Public Transit
• AV/EV
• Parking
• Smart Mobility
• Alternative
Transportation
Rapid Recovery Plan- Funding Assistance Report City of Northampton 14
Recommended Approach to Attaining
Funding
Marshfield
Source: Stantec
Rapid Recovery Plan- Funding Assistance Report City of Northampton 15
City of Northampton: Funding Application Approach & Strategy
Northampton’s Rapid Recovery Plan highlighted the need to revitalize and focus investments on
Uptown - its businesses, streets, parking facilities, and open spaces. The priority projects selected
for additional funding research target the need for dispelling perceptions and fears about parking
management in Downtown/on Main Street, implementing more progressive parking strategies, and
spurring economic development through the creation of a Downtown business incubator program.
Both projects need increased support and local collaborators - as they currently face opposition
that prohibits the economic vitality of Northampton, particularly in Downtown. The parking
strategies implementation project lacks a community vision, which requires an outside entity
to bring unity and programmatic solutions around the strategy of creating a more efficient and
stronger parking system. The business incubator program needs dedicated technical assistance to
encourage new, diverse, and minority businesses to take root in Downtown Northampton. The City’s
existing “Resilience Hub” can act as a jumping off point for the business incubator, as it can act as a
initial clearinghouse for business resources as well as a physical space for the incubator.
The funding assistance plan seeks to provide two separate tracks for pursuing these projects based
on the timeline of funding cycles for the selected funding programs and competitive advantage that
the City has for being awarded the funding. Northampton receives approximately $800K annually
from grants, however the City needs to better tie in economic development into the project goals
and purpose, and focus on applying for grants that address programmatic solutions and needs.
These applications will need to rely on grants that do not require matches, as the City can only
provide minimal internal funding for grant match requirements.
Discussion with the City demonstrated that there is a strong awareness of the grant programs
available but a lack of capacity to properly pursue – the ability for future funding solutions to serve
several purposes is crucial.
Rapid Recovery Plan- Funding Assistance Report City of Northampton 16
With the right messaging and support, the City is well-positioned to acquire funding for its RRP
priority projects. Highlights of a recommended strategy are provided below:
Determine Project Readiness
• Define potential scope (geographic, content) for each study and whether efforts can be
combined
• Define anticipated outcomes of studies, particularly how they can support economic
development, business community recovery from the impacts from the pandemic, and
capacity building
• Develop narrative surrounding the tourism-related benefits of project opportunities to expand
funding options
Highlight Program Benefits
• Demonstrate and document success of improvements of RRP project and other community-
visioning efforts, including community feedback (e.g. merchant groups) and broader impact on
sales revenue
• Cite nearby model example(s) for project results, pulling from the RRP case studies for
highlighted priority projects
Assemble Community Partners
• Build consensus between community stakeholders on project approach, goals, outcomes, and
responsibilities/expectations
• Share funding program source possibilities with peers in the community and gauge interest
in providing assistance, up to championing grant applications to relieve capacity constraints
within the Town
Monitor Other Funding Sources
• Identify relevant components of the recently passed infrastructure bill
Rapid Recovery Plan- Funding Assistance Report City of Northampton 17
*DUNS number- This number is often
referenced by lenders and potential business
partners to help predict the reliability and/or
financial stability of the company in question.
D-U-N-S, which stands for data universal
numbering system, is used to maintain up-
to-date and timely information on more than
hundreds of millions global businesses.
To find your number, go to www.SAM.gov and
click “Check Status” located at the top of the
page. Search by entering your DUNS number
or business name. If found, your registration
status will be displayed.
**SAM- Both current and potential
government vendors are required to register
their business in the System of Award
Management SAM in order to be awarded
contracts by the US Government. This is
sometimes referred to as “self-certifying”
your business. Vendors are required to
complete a one-time registration to provide
basic information relevant to procurement
and financial transactions.
To create an account and access SAM as
a new user, go to www.sam.gov, click on
“Create a User Account”, select account type,
and complete registration.
Further details and contact information is
available here- https://www.sba.gov/sites/
default/files/articles/Registering_on_SAM.
pdf
Documentation to Assemble
• DUNS number (Required for all Federal
and some State grants)*
• SAM’s** registration up to date (Required
for some grants)
• Supporting studies / reports / design
documents
• Cost estimates
• Letters of support
Correspondence with Funder
• Connect early with funding agency to
clarify any requirements and notify of
intent to apply, when applicable
Correspondence with Other Project Partners
• Keep regular communication with project
partners and other parties who will be
impacted by the project. Let them know
early on of intentions to apply to funding
and if any effort is required on their part
to support application packages.
?
Funding Application Best Practices and General Requirements
Rapid Recovery Plan- Funding Assistance Report City of Northampton 18
Priority Projects: Applicable Funding
Program and Application Process
Worcester
Source: Stantec
Rapid Recovery Plan- Funding Assistance Report City of Northampton 19
Project 1: Create a new space dedicated to the
training and housing of start-up enterprises
Fall River
Source: Stantec
Rapid Recovery Plan- Funding Assistance Report City of Northampton 20
Rapid Recovery Plan City of Northampton 85
Category Tenant Mix
Location Downtown Northampton
Origin LRRP Stakeholder Interviews (May 2021)
Budget
Large ($200,000)
Potential funding sources:
• Mass Development: Collaborative Workspace Program
Timeframe Medium Term (5-10 years)
Risk Medium Risk
• Fiscal viability
Key Performance Indicators
• Number of enterprises incubated
• Number of jobs created
• Dollar amount of economic impact
• Dollar amount of collective funding raised
Partners & Resources
• Downtown Northampton Association (DNA)
• Greater Northampton Chamber of Commerce
• Northampton Arts Council
• City of Northampton Department of Economic Development
• Academic institution(s)
Create a new space dedicated to the training
and housing of start-up enterprises
Rapid Recovery Plan- Funding Assistance Report City of Northampton 21
Rapid Recovery Plan City of Northampton 86
Description The future of work in the Commonwealth will require the incubating of new
enterprises in expanding industries and the retraining of workforces from
contracting industries. To address this trend, this project will develop a
successful incubator space with accessible and affordable programming,
equipment, and materials for budding entrepreneurs.
Diagnostic • Seventy-six percent of businesses surveyed believed that the creation
of new programs to attract additional businesses was either important
(39%) or very important (37%) to the economic recovery of the
downtown (Source: LRRP Business Survey, April 2021).
• The Preparing for the Future of Work in the Commonwealth of
Massachusetts report (2021) forecasts that 300,000 to 400,000
Massachusetts residents, particularly women and those with limited
higher education, will need to retrain or shift industries as a result of
changing demands in occupational categories over the next decade.
• Northampton’s workforce population is 15,526 (US Census Bureau, 2019).
• Approximately 58% of ground floor space in the downtown is retail, a
large sector that is forecasted to see a 9% decline in workforce demand
over the next decade. Providing local opportunities for job retraining,
particularly towards education, professional, scientific and technical
services, will be a helpful strategy for retaining a workforce-age
population (Source: Local Rapid Recovery Planning Field Work, April
2021).
Action Item • Offer recurring programming focusing on specific industries which will
thrive in Northampton’s socioeconomic environment.
• Find a brick-and-mortar space in downtown Northampton, dedicated to
the housing and training of start-up enterprises.
• Integrate programming with opportunities for programming at the new
Resilience hub.
• Foster and maintain a strong network of intersectoral partners
dedicated to maintaining an entrepreneurial ecosystem in downtown
Northampton.
Rapid Recovery Plan- Funding Assistance Report City of Northampton 22
Rapid Recovery Plan City of Northampton 87
Process
Phase 1: Planning (6-12 months)
Determine a high demand industry in need of
entrepreneurial resources and coalesce an initial
group of partners around the formation of an
innovation space.
• Determine flagship organization: Determine
which organization has the administrative
capacity to serve as the lead entity
responsible for fostering the project. They will
ideally be able to receive public grant funding.
• Determine industry: Determine which
industry would best fit Northampton’s
unique economic and cultural landscape for
innovation. Industries discussed during the
LRRP process include:
• education technology, and
• food service.
Food service is potentially a great area of focus
for those seeking programming opportunities
through the Resilience Hub.
• Demonstrate: Source a small amount of
funding to pilot programming for the selected
industry. The goal of the demonstration should
be to prove the demand for entrepreneurial
resources in that particular industry in
downtown Northampton. For example, to test
the interest in food services, an organization
could offer cooking courses. For education
technology, an organization could conduct a
design thinking challenge or hackathon.
• Fund initial planning: Apply for a
MassDevelopment Collaborative Workspaces
Grant to fund planning of the new space.
• Shortlist partners:Based on the industry
or industries selected and the outcomes
of the demonstration, develop a shortlist
of candidate organizations to serve in the
following partnering capacities:
• Fiscal administration (must be able to
receive public grants).
• Programming and operations (typically
non-government).
• Research and development (academic
entrepreneurship programs).
• An initial group of start-ups.
• Investment (capital funds or corporate
sponsorship from an organization with a
philanthropic mission or vested interest in
the selected industry).
Click Workspace (Photo credit: Camilla Elizeu)
Click Workspaces offers affordable office space in Northampton
Rapid Recovery Plan- Funding Assistance Report City of Northampton 23
Rapid Recovery Plan City of Northampton 88
Process, continued Phase 1 , continued
• Pitch to partners: Meet individually with each interested organization to
to continue the conversation.
• Present the vision for an innovation space.
• Why an innovation space is important for the future of downtown
Northampton
• How it is envisioned.
• What resources are needed from the organization in order to
partner.
Appropriate partnership development follow-up should be made
to assess interest in moving forward and work through potential
roadblocks.
• Form an agreement: Initial founding partners should enter a legal
agreement outlining specific roles and responsibilities, as well as
structures for ownership and taxation.
Phase 2: Development/Fundraising (3-6 months)
Create an engaging and financially sustainable program.
• Funding fixed costs: Apply for an additional public grant, such as
MassDevelopment’s Collaborative Workspace Grant Program, to cover
initial fixed costs related to equipment and retrofitting of a physical
space.
• Secure a physical space: Identify and sign a lease for a space which
can be retrofitted to serve industry needs. A ground floor location
offers downtown visitors an opportunity to view innovation at work in
downtown Northampton.
• Funding recurring costs: Develop a match program for recurring costs
such as rent, utilities, and insurance between the founding startups and
investors. Startups will benefit from receiving more than just a space
in their recurring costs, while investors form new relationships with the
budding enterprises.
• Funding variable costs: Variable costs such as programming can often
be supported by grants, academic institutions, or non-profits looking
to advance research or a mission. For example, UMass’s Amherst’s
Berthiaume Center for Entrepreneurship would be an ideal partner to
provide guest lectures from professors.
• Programming: Determine appropriate programming for the space, such
as recurring event series, workshops, design thinking challenges and
networking conferences.
• Determine/hire staff: Hire staff in preparation for launching the space.
Rapid Recovery Plan- Funding Assistance Report City of Northampton 24
Rapid Recovery Plan City of Northampton 89
Process, continued
Phase 3: Operations & Evaluation
Ensure ongoing success for the new space.
• Launch: Open the space for start-ups, offering
programming for both members and non-
members.
• Promote: Conduct a media relations campaign
to highlight differentiating features of the new
space.
• Recruit: Determine an appropriate process for
the recruitment of additional start-ups and
investors.
• Evaluate: Performance of the space should
be evaluated quarterly and include metrics
as shown in the ‘Key Performance Indicators’
Section.
Cyclists on the Rail Trail (Photo credit: Camilla Elizeu)
Rapid Recovery Plan- Funding Assistance Report City of Northampton 25
Create a new space dedicated to the training and
housing of start-up enterprises
The first step in creating an actionable funding plan is to define future projects and initiatives.
Through the development of a Rapid Recovery Plan (RRP), Northampton has identified the projects
the City would like to implement to catalyze recovery. The RRP Project Category type has also been
identified.
Recommended funding sources for each project are listed below and outlined in detail on the
following pages of this section. Funding sources were selected based on the following factors:
1. Relevancy to project
2. Ability to close funding gap
3. Timing of project in relation to active status of opportunity
4. Level of competitiveness of community in relation to popularity of opportunity
5. Level of effort to prepare application and successfully manage the project in the context of
community capacity
Project 1 of 2: Create a new space dedicated to the training and housing of start-up enterprises
Program Name Priority to
Pursue Grant Program Strategy
Peer to Peer
Technical Assistance
Program
1 Submit low-level of effort Training Request Form to receive immediate funding
for internal training.
Collaborative
Workspace Program 2 Work with local businesses to create a joint applicant/more competitive
application that promotes public-private partnerships.
EDA Public Works
and Economic
Adjustment
Assistance
3
Work with local institutions/universities to link the incubator program to the
colleges, therefore creating a collaborative effort between the City and local
collaborators. This could be promoted through an alumni association.
Economic
Development RNTA 4
Focus application goals on research needs and technical assistance to
promote the incubator program. Pursue after other programs with tighter
timelines given rolling deadline.
Good Neighbor
Citizenship Company
Grants
5
Application should focus on “community development” category of grant.
Pursue after other programs with tighter timelines given funding cycle start
date of October 2022.
Regional Pilot
Project Grant
Program
6
Although currently inactive, prepare application as the business incubator
project is competitive for this grant program. Ensure that there are no conflicts
of interest as noted in the “terms/requirements/notes” row on page 31.
Urban Agenda Grant
Program 7
Although currently inactive, prepare application as the funding maximum
of $250K could support the development of a incubator space/funding for
technical assistance (especially given the opportunity to receive funding for
consultants, partner agencies, and personnel).
Applicable Potential Funding Resources
Project
1
Rapid Recovery Plan- Funding Assistance Report City of Northampton 26
FUNDING SOURCE #1
Peer to Peer Technical Assistance Program
MassWorkforce/Department of Energy Resources
Purpose/Goals
The Peer-to-Peer/Training and Technical Assistance Grant (P2P/ TAT) is designed to
showcase innovative Massachusetts Workforce Development programs, projects,
and best practices via a national website where other states can review and request
training and technical assistance directly from the Massachusetts Workforce
Development system and its partners.
Eligible
Applicants
MA cities and towns with populations of under 50,000 that do not receive CDBG funds
directly from the federal Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD)
Eligible Use of
Funds
CDBG Technical Assistance Funds provide for grants of up to $1,000. Exclusively for
technical assistance related to community development and/or capacity building
related to community development at the local level
Grant funds may be used to pay for up to 30 hours ($900) of technical assistance and
up to $100 for reimbursement of travel, photocopying and/or the cost of incidental
materials. A maximum of 10 eligible applications are funded yearly on a first-come,
first-served basis.
Technical assistance providers will work with your team to develop a customized
technical assistance strategy that will support you in your development of a sector
strategy.
Loan or Grant
Maximum $1000
Terms
Requirements/
Notes
To request training/technical assistance on any of the projects listed please complete
the Training Request Form
Funding Cycle Rolling
Contact
Rosemary Alexander
PeertoPeer@MassMail.State.MA.US
Program/
Application
Website
https://www.mass.gov/national-peer-to-peer-technical-assistance-and-training
Level of Effort to Apply and Manage
Easy Difficult
CAPACITY
BUILDING
Project
1
Rapid Recovery Plan- Funding Assistance Report City of Northampton 27
FUNDING SOURCE #2
Collaborative Workspace Program
MassDevelopment
Purpose/Goals
The goal of the Collaborative Workspace Program is to accelerate the pace of new
business formation, job creation, and entrepreneurial activity in communities, by
supporting infrastructure that fuels community-based innovation.
Eligible
Applicants Owners and operators of coworking spaces
Eligible Use of
Funds
Owners and operators of coworking spaces may apply for either fit-out grants of up to
$100,000 for new equipment or building improvements, or seed grants of up to $15,000
for planning money to advance the development of new coworking spaces.
Loan or Grant
Maximum $100,000
Terms
Requirements/
Notes
Owners and operators of coworking spaces may apply for either fit-out grants of up to
$100,000 for new equipment or building improvements, or seed grants of up to $15,000
for planning money to advance the development of new coworking spaces.
Funding Cycle Recurring - currently inactive
Contact cowork@massdevelopment.com
Program/
Application
Website
https://www.massdevelopment.com/what-we-offer/financing/grants/collaborative-
workspace-program
Level of Effort to Apply and Manage
Easy Difficult
BUSINESS
SUPPORT/
ATTRACTION
Project
1
Rapid Recovery Plan- Funding Assistance Report City of Northampton 28
FUNDING SOURCE #3
EDA Public Works and Economic Adjustment Assistance Programs
US Department of Commerce: Economic Development Administration
Purpose/Goals
Under this NOFO, EDA solicits applications from applicants in rural and urban areas
to provide investments that support construction, non-construction, technical
assistance, and revolving loan fund projects under EDA’s Public Works and EAA
programs. Grants and cooperative agreements made under these programs are
designed to leverage existing regional assets and support the implementation of
economic development strategies that advance new ideas and creative approaches
to advance economic prosperity in distressed communities. EDA provides strategic
investments on a competitive- merit-basis to support economic development, foster
job creation, and attract private investment in economically distressed areas of the
United States.
Eligible
Applicants
State governments, County governments, Native American tribal governments
(Federally recognized), Nonprofits that do not have a 501(c)(3) status with the IRS,
other than institutions of higher education, Nonprofits having a 501(c)(3) status with
the IRS, other than institutions of higher education, Public and State controlled
institutions of higher education, Special district governments, Private institutions of
higher education, City or township governments
Eligible Use of
Funds
EDA fulfills this mission through strategic investments and partnerships that
create the regional economic ecosystems required to foster globally competitive
regions throughout the United States. EDA supports development in economically
distressed areas of the United States by fostering job creation and attracting private
investment. Under this NOFO, EDA solicits applications from applicants in order to
provide investments that support construction, non construction, planning, technical
assistance, and revolving loan fund projects under EDA’s Public Works program and
EAA program (which includes Assistance to Coal Communities and Nuclear Closure
Communities). Grants and cooperative agreements made under these programs are
designed to leverage existing regional assets and support the implementation of
economic development strategies that advance new ideas and creative approaches
to advance economic prosperity in distressed communities, including those
negatively impacted by changes to the coal economy and nuclear power plant
closures
Loan or Grant
Maximum $30,000,000
Terms/
Requirements/
Notes
$100K-$30M. Expected number of awards (3000)
Funding Cycle Rolling - currently active
Contact http://www.eda.gov/contact/
Program/
Application
Website
https://www.grants.gov/web/grants/view-opportunity.html?oppId=321695
Level of Effort to Apply and Manage
Easy Difficult
Project
1
BUSINESS
SUPPORT/
ATTRACTION
Rapid Recovery Plan- Funding Assistance Report City of Northampton 29
FUNDING SOURCE #4
Economic Development RNTA
US Department of Commerce: Economic Development Administration
Purpose/Goals
EDA provides strategic investments on a competitive merit basis to support economic
development, foster job creation, and attract private investment in economically
distressed areas of the United States. Under this NOFO, EDA solicits applications
from applicants in order to provide investments that support research and technical
assistance projects under EDA’s R&E and NTA programs.
Eligible
Applicants
Eligible applicants for and recipients of EDA RNTA investment assistance include:
a District Organization; an Indian Tribe or a consortium of Indian Tribes; a State; a
city or other political subdivision of a State, including a special purpose unit of a
State or local government engaged in economic or infrastructure development
activities, or a consortium of political subdivisions; an institution of higher education
or a consortium of institutions of higher education; a public or private non-profit
organization or association acting in cooperation with officials of a political
subdivision of a State; private individual; or a for-profit organization.
Eligible Use of
Funds
Grants and cooperative agreements made under these programs are designed to
leverage existing regional assets and support the implementation of economic
development strategies that advance new ideas and creative approaches to advance
economic prosperity in distressed communities.
Loan or Grant
Maximum $1,500,000
Terms/
Requirements/
Notes
Expected number of awards (15). This NOFO employs a two-step application process:
(1) the Concept Proposal and (2) the Full Application. EDA will only review Full
Applications submitted by applicants who first submitted a Concept Proposal. Any
Full Application received from an applicant that did not submit a Concept Proposal
will be deemed ineligible and not considered for funding. For the Concept Proposal,
applicants may use the optional template available at https://eda.gov/programs/
rnta/resources/. Full Applications must be submitted through Grants.gov using the
link that EDA will provide with its response to the Concept Proposal.
Funding Cycle
Rolling - currently active. There are no submission deadlines under this NOFO.
Applications will be accepted on an ongoing basis until the termination of this NOFO
or publication of a superseding RNTA NOFO.
Contact rnta@eda.gov.
Program/
Application
Website
https://eda.gov/programs/rnta/
https://www.grants.gov/web/grants/view-opportunity.html?oppId=334079
CAPACITY
BUILDING
Project
1
Level of Effort to Apply and Manage
Easy Difficult
Rapid Recovery Plan- Funding Assistance Report City of Northampton 30
FUNDING SOURCE #5
Good Neighbor Citizenship Company Grants
State Farm Companies Foundation
Purpose/Goals Helping to build safer, stronger and better educated communities across the United
States with a focus on three areas: safety, education, and community development.
Eligible
Applicants
• Educational institutions.
• Programs conducted by Municipal, county, state or federal government entities
that align with the State Farm® charitable focus.
• 501(c)(3) Charitable nonprofit organizations.
• 501(c)(4) Volunteer fire companies.
Eligible Use of
Funds
Safety Grants - Auto and roadway safety; Teen driver education; Home safety and fire
prevention; Disaster preparedness; Disaster recovery
Community Development - Affordable housing; Job training; Neighborhood
revitalization; Small business development; First time homeownership; Financial
literacy.
Education Grants - Academic performance improvement programs that impact K-12
students; Education initiatives that more directly support underserved individuals
(13 years and older), helping them enroll in post-secondary education and obtain
the skills and credentials they need to be successful in today’s workforce; Service-
learning programs that provide students opportunities to connect and apply learning
skills from classroom to address unmet needs that exist in their community; Teacher
development programs.
Loan or Grant
Maximum No less than $5K
Terms
Requirements/
Notes
State Farm does not fund:
• Individuals seeking personal help or scholarships.
• Religious programs.
• Politically partisan programs.
• Organizations outside the U.S.
Funding Cycle Recurring - October 1-October 31 (new cycle in 2022)
Contact 800-782-8332
Program/
Application
Website
https://www.statefarm.com/about-us/community-involvement/community-grants/
good-neighbor-citizenship-grants
Level of Effort to Apply and Manage
Easy Difficult
MISCELLANEOUS
Project
1
Rapid Recovery Plan- Funding Assistance Report City of Northampton 31
FUNDING SOURCE #6
Regional Pilot Project Grant Program
Massachusetts Office of Business Development
Purpose/Goals
The project proposal must demonstrate how the organization/municipalities support
businesses and communities in stabilizing and/or growing their regional economy with one
or more of the recovery efforts under Partnerships for Recovery.
Eligible
Applicants
Any Massachusetts city or town, any public entity, or 501(c) organizations that are federally
tax exempt under the Internal Revenue Code may apply to the program for a grant. The grant
application must consist of two or more municipalities, or organizations representing said
municipalities. If lead applicant is not a municipality, a commitment letter from at least 2
municipalities is required.
Eligible Use of
Funds
The project proposal must demonstrate how the organization/ municipalities support
businesses and communities in stabilizing and/or growing their regional economy with one
or more of the recovery efforts under Partnerships for Recovery.
Get Massachusetts Back to Work: Partnerships for Recovery recognizes that good jobs
are critical to economic recovery and growth, for local economies and the Commonwealth
broadly. Projects that support job creation, transportation solutions which unlock the
ability to work, childcare for children of workers with no other option, could all be innovative
approaches to getting people back to work.
Support Small Business: The COVID-19 pandemic has had dramatic impacts on our
small business communities. Innovative projects to support small businesses might
include regional marketing efforts, collaborations to support key sectors across multiple
municipalities, or an online catalogue for Main Street businesses.
Revitalize Downtowns: Main Streets and downtowns have experienced decreased foot
traffic and economic activity throughout the pandemic. Partnerships for Recovery promotes
innovative ways to drive new business in a COVID-19 safe format; examples might include a
digital tour tool that highlights community landmarks.
Foster Innovation: Partnerships for Growth recognizes that, in addition to short-term
economic needs, our innovation economy is a long-term asset and can be a key part of the
recovery strategy. Innovative projects in this space would be welcome.
Loan or Grant
Maximum Unspecified
Terms/
Requirements/
Notes
This funding should not be used to fund projects or purposes for which there is already
state or federal funding available (i.e. Shared Streets and Spaces Grant Program, Paycheck
Protection Program, Small Business Grant Relief programs). In addition, no capital-related
projects will be funded. Grant proposals should define the communities they serve and
provide clear performance benchmarks and metrics. Grant proposals should not encompass
areas that have other sources of funding. Any current contracted REDO must specify the
specific project or initiative that they want to expand.
Funding Cycle Recurring - currently inactive (2021 funding cycle complete)
Contact Nhat Le - Nhat.Le@mass.gov
Program
Website https://www.mass.gov/info-details/regional-pilot-project-grant-program
Level of Effort to Apply and Manage
Easy Difficult
Project
1
BUSINESS
SUPPORT/
ATTRACTION
Rapid Recovery Plan- Funding Assistance Report City of Northampton 32
FUNDING SOURCE #7
Urban Agenda Grant Program (One-Stop)
Executive Office of Housing and Economic Development
Purpose/Goals
In December 2019, the Administration released a new economic development plan
for the state entitled: Partnerships for Growth: A plan to enable the Commonwealth’s
regions to build, connect and lead. The plan aligns the administration’s economic
development programs, funding, and legislative efforts within four central pillars
– Respond to the Housing Crisis, Build Vibrant Communities, Support Business
Competitiveness, and Train a Skilled Workforce – to address challenges and foster
opportunities over the next four years. The Urban Agenda Grant Program is one of
the state’s most important tools to partner with community based organizations to
pursue these opportunities.
Eligible
Applicants
Municipality or Community-based organization. All Massachusetts cities and towns
proposing to create or expand a community based coalition and/or to develop/
implement a coalition-based project are eligible to apply. In all cases, the application
must be led by the municipality in partnership with a main community organization,
either of can act as the lead applicant. Each community may submit only one
application to the program, except for cities with a population over 150,000. In those
cases, the city may submit either one citywide proposal or multiple “neighborhood”
proposals. Priority will be given to urban communities with median household income
that is less than 90% of state average.
It is also important to note that the program is intended to support the work being
done by a community, not by any individual agency that happens to be working in the
community. The idea is for projects to be developed and agreed upon by a community
coalition or consortium. It is not meant to support or expand the reach of the
municipality or any one organization.
Eligible Use of
Funds
As outlined, this program is designed to support community economic development
that is grounded in collaboration and local leadership development. Generally,
applicants should base their project proposal on locally significant economic
opportunities. The key is that the project be in direct response to a need or opportunity
that the community group has identified and deemed important. The primary
funding priorities of the program, based on the development continuum outlined in
the Community One Stop for Growth, will be the Creation or Expansion of a Cross
Sector Community Consortium or Coalition, Early Stage Strategy Development, and
Community Led Strategy Implementation.
Level of Effort to Apply and Manage
Easy Difficult
CAPACITY
BUILDING
Project
2
Rapid Recovery Plan- Funding Assistance Report City of Northampton 33
Eligible Use
of Funds
(continued)
In the case of strategy implementation, projects have generally been focused
on workforce development and/or support to small business and entrepreneurs.
Examples of projects that have received past favorable reviews, include: a
commercial kitchen training at-risk residents for culinary careers in a region with
a growing hospitality sector; and business training and entrepreneurial supports
for women-, minority- and veteran-owned businesses in response to new local
business opportunities. Given the impact of the pandemic, additional examples
may include technical assistance and/or coaching to minority business owners on
accessing state/federal assistance; workshops/webinars to help parents improve
homeschooling skills; and creation of a network to support ad guide low-income
families facing evictions; etc.
Loan or Grant
Maximum $250,000
Terms/
Requirements/
Notes
Applicants may request general operating funds to cover any and all reasonable
expenses associated with the implementation of the proposed project plan. Generally,
the budget should include the costs for personnel, consultants, partner agency
subcontracts, supplies and materials, etc. The budget may include an allocation for
indirect overhead costs. While not required, applicants are also asked to identify
match funds, if any. Additional consideration is given to applications that include in
kind and/or cash support from the municipality, other organizations, and/or private
sources. Program should be completed within one year
Funding Cycle Recurring - next funding cycle not yet active
Contact Onestop@mass.gov
Program/
Application
Website
https://www.mass.gov/service-details/urban-agenda-grant-program
Rapid Recovery Plan- Funding Assistance Report City of Northampton 34
Funding success for Northampton is contingent on several factors. Coordination with state
agencies and local and regional partners is critical. The City bears some, if not all, financial
responsibility for several project areas presented in this Plan. In some cases, third parties have
contracts with the City to deliver services and build public infrastructure. It is in Northampton’s
best interest to align funding activities with key stakeholders to maximize access to shared
resources and minimize duplicative efforts.
General Observations and Level of Support Needed
The following are key programs to further investigate and activities Northampton can take in the
next six months to one year to secure funding to advance initiatives.
Create a new space dedicated to the training and housing
of start-up enterprises
Funding Application Process
Project
1
Funding Name: Collaborative Workspace Program (Funding Program #2)
How When
Step 1.
Determine local collaborators and businesses to create a
joint application. Promote program across the Downtown
business community and highlight how this program can
support a business incubator program.
As soon as possible
Step 2.
Once collaborator is finalized, work with them to determine
the potential incubator space and refine fit-out /equipment
needs.
Upon announcement
of new funding cycle
Step 3.
Prepare application materials, including cost estimates,
collaborator letters of support, and specific equipment
needs.
As part of application
Funding Name: Peer to Peer Technical Assistance Program (Funding Program #1)
How When
Step 1.
Select the type of peer to peer technical assistance and
training program and determine the technical assistance
needs/key considerations.
Winter 2022
Step 2.
Work with community partners to create an inventory of
individuals who should attend training programs related to
marketing initiatives.
Winter 2022
Step 3.Prepare Training Request Form and submit application. As a part of
application
Rapid Recovery Plan- Funding Assistance Report City of Northampton 35
Funding Name: EDA Public Works and Economic Adjustment Assistance Programs
(Funding Program #3)
How When
Step 1.
Determine local collaborators and institutions to create
a joint application. Promote program across alumni
associations and highlight how this program can support a
business incubator program.
As soon as possible
Step 2. Once collaborator is finalized, work with them to determine
partner expectations/responsibilities Early 2022
Step 3.
Prepare application materials, highlighting how the business
incubator program can support Downtown economic
development strategies
As part of application
Funding Name: Economic Development RNTA (Funding Program #4)
How When
Step 1.
Refine project goals to align with RNTA program -
particularly focusing on how the business incubator project
will support economic development, foster job creation, and
attract private invest within Northampton and neighboring
communities.
As soon as possible
Step 2.
Determine the detailed concept proposal to focus on the
technical assistance/setup of the business incubator, or
development of the physical space.
Early 2022
Step 3.Prepare application materials for both the Concept Proposal
and Full Application (both are required for submission). As part of application
Funding Name: Good Neighbor Citizenship Company Grants (Funding Program #5)
How When
Step 1.
Determine project goal to align with State Farm program
- particularly focusing on Safety Grants, Community
Development, or Education Grants.
Prior to Oct 2022
Step 2.
Assess need to collaborate with local educational
institutions and nonprofit organizations to boost application
competitiveness.
Prior to Oct 2022
Step 3.Prepare application materials. As part of Oct 2022
funding cycle
Rapid Recovery Plan- Funding Assistance Report City of Northampton 36
Funding Name: Regional Pilot Project Grant Program (Funding Program #6)
How When
Step 1.
Determine project goal to align with program - particularly
focusing on “Get Massachusetts Back to Work”, “Support
Small Businesses”, “Revitalize Downtowns”, and “Foster
Innovation”. Refine project components and streamline
timeline/timeframe and action items.
As soon as possible
Step 2.
Upon announcement of new funding cycle, review terms/
requirements/notes to ensure that Northampton’s
application do not conflict. Coordinate with other RPAs or
municipalities to create a joint application.
Upon announcement
of new funding cycle
Step 3.Assemble application materials.As part of application
Funding Name: Urban Agenda Grant Program (Funding Program #7)
How When
Step 1.
Determine project goal to align with program - particularly
focusing on supporting economic development. The project
goals should highlight how the incubator program is a
direct response to a need or opportunity that the Downtown
community has identified and deemed important.
As soon as possible
Step 2.
Upon announcement of new funding cycle, review terms/
requirements/notes to ensure that Northampton’s
application do not conflict. Coordinate with other RPAs or
municipalities to create a joint application (as municipalities
can submit multiple “neighborhood” proposals).
Upon announcement
of new funding cycle
Step 3.Assemble application materials.As part of application
Rapid Recovery Plan- Funding Assistance Report City of Northampton 37
Project 2: Restructure parking management
strategies to increase vacancy rates for
on-street parking
Lowell
Source: Stantec
Rapid Recovery Plan- Funding Assistance Report City of Northampton 38
Rapid Recovery Plan City of Northampton 68
Category Administrative Capacity
Location Downtown Northampton with an emphasis on Main Street and
municipal parking structures
Origin • LRRP Stakeholder Interviews, May 2021
• Downtown Northampton Parking Study (2015)
Budget
Low (Less than $50,000)
Potential funding sources:
• Coronavirus State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds
• Existing staff capacity
Timeframe Short Term (Less than 5 years)
Risk
High
• Political will
• Tension surrounding parking management on Main Street
Key Performance Indicators
• Increase in average on-street parking space availability
rates, by block
• Change in average duration of on-street parking space use
on Main Street
• Change in average off-street parking space occupancy rate,
by facility
• Adoption of updated parking regulations into code
Partners & Resources
• City of Northampton Office of Planning and Sustainability
• City of Northampton Transportation & Parking Commission
• City of Northampton Mayor’s Office
• Downtown Northampton Association (DNA)
• City of Northampton Department of Public Works (if
ordinance is needed)
• Toole Design Group (“Picture Main Street” consultants)
.
Restructure parking management strategies to
increase vacancy rates for on-street parking
Rapid Recovery Plan- Funding Assistance Report City of Northampton 39
Rapid Recovery Plan City of Northampton 69
Description
The evolution of parking management in the downtown study area will
allow the City of Northampton to better serve the needs of its base
of customers and employees while addressing concerns over parking
availability in the downtown.
Diagnostic • The “Downtown Northampton Parking Management Study” by Walker
Parking Consultants (2015) outlines a series of recommendations to
help improve parking in the Downtown, the majority of which have not
yet been implemented. Recommendations include modifications to
pricing, hours of operation, and further incentives to transfer on-street
parking to off-street lots and structures.
• Sixty percent of businesses believe that changes in parking availability,
management or policy are “important” or “very important” to their
continued operations following the COVID-19 pandemic.¹
• Businesses believe that parking regulations are the largest current
obstacle to their business operations (33%) when compared to other
policy improvements, such as outdoor dining (19%) and signage (17%).¹
• There are currently 2,096 public parking spaces in the Downtown area
of focus – 828 are on-street and 1,268 are off-street (Source: LRRP
Baseline Data, April 2021).
• In a full year, the E.J. Gare Parking Garage is only at capacity (430
spaces) 1% of the time. For 87% of the year, there are more empty
spaces in the E.J .Gare Parking Garage than all of the possible on-street
parking spaces on Main Street (136 spaces). There is an abundance of
available spaces on weekends in Smith College’s privately-owned lots,
which can also serve to help mitigate demand for on-street parking
(Source: Northampton Transportation and Parking Commission).
• The Walk Bike Northampton Master Plan by Alta Planning and Design
(2017) outlines opportunities to encourage more trips by walking and
biking within a 15-minute threshold, reducing the reliance of parking for
local residents when shopping Downtown. The Downtown also benefits
greatly from walkable access to an Amtrak Station and the Mass
Central, New Haven, and Northampton Rail Trails.
¹ Source: LRRP Business Survey, April 2021
Action Item • Use a combination of parking and transportation demand management
strategies to accommodate customer and employee activity.
• Adjust enforcement and regulatory mechanisms, paired with a
marketing campaign, to improve parking space turnover.
Rapid Recovery Plan- Funding Assistance Report City of Northampton 40
Rapid Recovery Plan City of Northampton 70
Process Phase 1: Convene a Working Group (1-3 months)
• Utilize the recurring monthly parking meeting with key stakeholders
to unravel and reconcile parking considerations based on proposed
designs for the downtown, as well as float unified messaging prior to
broader public engagement.
Phase 2: Implementation (1-2 years)
• Goals and metrics: Adopt formal parking goals and metrics. Collect
and track data annually to support ongoing management and increase
transparency of decision making for policy changes.
• A set of formal goals will guide parking management and use
of revenue in support of downtown Northampton’s unique
needs. Potential focus areas: availability (85%) and turnover,
citations, customer friendliness, employee access, safety, equity,
neighborhood preservation, and economic vitality.
• Establish internal and external data sharing protocols, including
making data “open source” via a data dashboard.
• Parking enforcement: Implement consistent and equitable parking
enforcement. Raise citation rates from $15 as recommended by the
2015 parking study to effectively deter motorists from violating parking
regulations.
• Update downtown-specific enforcement metrics and schedule. For
example, shift enforcement to better accommodate evening use,
from 11am to 8pm, making appropriate changes to regulation and
signage.
• Consider progressive parking rates on-street. For example, $1/hr for
the first two hours, then $2/hr up to a maximum duration of 4 hours.
In any case, the first hour should remain as-is to deter pushback
from the community.
• Revise training programs as needed for downtown-specific rules
and programs.
• Consider including information on public parking lots on the back of,
or along with, tickets that are placed on vehicles.
Introduce a reduced-rate monthly pass for Downtown employees at
the E.J. Parking Garage (Photo credit: Camilla Elizeu)
Masonic Street Parking Lot (Photo credit: Camilla Elizeu)
Rapid Recovery Plan- Funding Assistance Report City of Northampton 41
Rapid Recovery Plan City of Northampton 71
Process, continued Phase 2, continued
• Regulations: Adjust regulations on Main Street.
• Adjust hours of on-street parking enforcement on Main Street
to 11am – 8pm to better reflect hours demanding parking space
turnover.
• Concurrently, a marketing campaign for the E.J. Gare Garage’s free
first hour may encourage more visitors to divert from Main Street,
and should be a focus prior to construction commencement that
will reduce capacity.
• Communications and outreach: Develop communications program,
defining key messages, collateral, and tools. Roll-out in coordination
with on-street hours enforcement changes and in anticipation of Main
Street reconstruction. Key elements could include the following.
• Downtown-specific website and social media channels.
• User-friendly maps, brochures, and FAQs on the City website.
• Messaging and collateral at meter kiosks/apps.
• Ongoing trainings, pop-up events, and informational sessions with
merchants, employees, and residents.
• Information on transit and multimodal options.
Digital parking counters downtown that point drivers to the nearest
parking garage
E.J. Gare Parking Garage
Rapid Recovery Plan- Funding Assistance Report City of Northampton 42
Restructure parking management strategies to increase
vacancy rates for on-street parking
The first step in creating an actionable funding plan is to define future projects and initiatives.
Through the development of a Rapid Recovery Plan (RRP), Northampton has identified the projects
the City would like to implement to catalyze recovery. The RRP Project Category type has also been
identified.
Recommended funding sources for each project are listed below and outlined in detail on the
following pages of this section. Funding sources were selected based on the following factors:
1. Relevancy to project
2. Ability to close funding gap
3. Timing of project in relation to active status of opportunity
4. Level of competitiveness of community in relation to popularity of opportunity
5. Level of effort to prepare application and successfully manage the project in the context of
community capacity
Project 2 of 2: Restructure parking management strategies to increase vacancy rates for on-
street parking
Program Name Priority to
Pursue Grant Program Strategy
Massachusetts
Downtown Initiative 1 Assemble Parking Management Implementation Plan/Key
Recommendations components for inclusion in application
Community Planning
Grant Program 2
Detail past planning efforts and highlight expected changes to
parking system/parking management which emphasize the need
for an implementation plan
Applicable Potential Funding Resources
Project
2
Rapid Recovery Plan- Funding Assistance Report City of Northampton 43
FUNDING SOURCE #1
Massachusetts Downtown Initiative
Massachusetts Department of Housing and Community Development
Purpose/Goals
The Department of Housing and Community Development’s Massachusetts Downtown
Initiative (MDI) offers a range of services and assistance to communities seeking
help on how to revitalize their downtowns. The primary mission of the MDI is to make
downtown revitalization an integral part of community development in cities and
towns across the Commonwealth. MDI’s guiding principle is that the most effective
approach to downtown revitalization is a holistic one that addresses economic and
community development needs, and provides a framework of interrelated activities
that promote positive change in a downtown to keep it healthy and prosperous.
Through the Technical Assistance Program, MDI provides consultant services to assist
communities with its downtown revitalization efforts.
Eligible
Applicants
All municipalities, although some fundings is set aside for non-entitlement CDBG
communities.
Eligible Use of
Funds
Funds would be used as technical assistance in the form of consulting services.
Eligible activities can include defining district management approaches (such as a
Business Improvement District), design issues (including streetscapes and signage
programs), economic issues such as feasibility studies, strategies to increase housing
stock, downtown mobility needs (such as a parking study or multimodal plan), small
business support, and assistance with wayfinding and branding.
Loan or Grant
Maximum $25,000, with funding for up to 20 awards in the 2021 cycle
Terms
Requirements/
Notes
Applications will be reviewed to determine overall consistency with the goals of the
MDI, support of the Department of Housing and Community Development’s (DHCD)
and the Commonwealth’s priorities and initiatives, and impact on local downtown/
town/village center revitalization efforts. DHCD will evaluate applications based on
an achievable project scope, project leadership, timeline, budget, expected outcomes
and impact, progress to date, and responsiveness to the Commonwealth’s Sustainable
Development Principles.
Funding Cycle Annually; the most recent cycle opened in January 2021 with full applications due in
June 2021
Contact
Elizabeth Hahn
elizabeth.hahn@mass.gov
Program/
Application
Website
https://www.mass.gov/service-details/massachusetts-downtown-initiative-mdi
Level of Effort to Apply and Manage
Easy Difficult
CAPACITY
BUILDING
Project
2
Rapid Recovery Plan- Funding Assistance Report City of Northampton 44
FUNDING SOURCE #2
Community Planning Grant Program
Massachusetts Department of Housing and Community Development
Purpose/Goals
The Commonwealth of Massachusetts introduced a new grant program in 2021 to
support technical assistance for community planning projects. Eligible projects are
aimed at supporting the public realm, such as through the creation of a housing
production plan, supporting transit-oriented development, corridor studies, zoning
revisions, and parking management plans.
Eligible
Applicants Municipalities
Eligible Use of
Funds
Eligible projects should support Massachusetts Sustainable Development Principles.
These include aspiring to concentrate development and mix uses, advance equity,
make more efficient decisions, protecting land and ecosystems, using natural
resources wisely, expanding housing opportunities, providing transportation choices,
increase job and business opportunities, and promoting clean energy.
Community planning processes are covered under this program, including master
plans, housing production plans, zoning review and updates, urban renewal plans, land
use plans, downtown plans, parking management plans, feasibility studies, and other
strategic plans.
Loan or Grant
Maximum Grants are awarded between $25,000 and $75,000
Terms
Requirements/
Notes
Applications are submitted through the Community One Stop for Growth. DHCD
reserves the right to reduce the amount of the award from the original request.
Funding availability is subject to approval of state budgets. A project description and
budget must be provided, along with a letter from the municipal CEO outlining support
for the applicant and/or the proposed project.
Funding Cycle The 2021 application cycle closed on June 4 for projects which must be completed by
June 30, 2022.
Contact onestop@mass.gov
Program/
Application
Website
https://www.mass.gov/service-details/planning-and-zoning-grants
Level of Effort to Apply and Manage
Easy Difficult
CAPACITY
BUILDING
Project
2
Rapid Recovery Plan- Funding Assistance Report City of Northampton 45
Funding Name: Massachusetts Downtown Initiative (Funding Program #1)
How When
Step 1.Determine focus of implementation plan by selecting key
parking recommendations. Define intended project goals.By early January 2022
Step 2.
Assemble targeted interventions to address in a study,
conversion of parking area for other uses (permanent or
seasonal), curbside management, time regulations, and
pricing, and shared parking.
By late January 2022
Step 3.
Prepare application materials, presenting cohesive
community vision of what a parking management
implementation plan should address and how it will be
executed.
As a part of
application
Funding Name: Community Planning Grant Program (Funding Program #2)
How When
Step 1.
Define intended project goals, including how improved
parking management implementation plan will support
economic development efforts in Downtown Northampton.
By winter 2022
Step 2.
Document past planning efforts and define upcoming
changes to Downtown, specifically related to parking
improvements/projects.
By early spring 2022
Step 3.
Prepare application materials, presenting cohesive
community vision of what a parking management
implementation plan should address and how it will be
executed.
As a part of
application
Funding success for Northampton is contingent on several factors. Coordination with state
agencies and local and regional partners is critical. The City bears some, if not all, financial
responsibility for several project areas presented in this Plan. In some cases, third parties have
contracts with the City to deliver services and build public infrastructure. It is in Northampton’s
best interest to align funding activities with key stakeholders to maximize access to shared
resources and minimize duplicative efforts.
General Observations and Level of Support Needed
The following are key programs to further investigate and activities Northampton can take in the
next six months to one year to secure funding to advance initiatives.
Funding Application Process
Restructure parking management strategies to increase
vacancy rates for on-street parking
Project
2