Design Review Board Mar 16, 2026

The Town of Amherst Design Review Board held a remote meeting on March 16, 2026, focusing primarily on a signage proposal for a new business, Zinnikin's Waffles, located in the Amherst Cinema Building. The board discussed the design and readability of the proposed storefront vinyl sign and hanging blade sign, ultimately approving the hanging sign and requesting the applicant to return with revised window sign options for better readability. The meeting also included a detailed presentation by consultants Dotson and Flinker on proposed updates to the town's downtown design standards, zoning changes, and streetscape improvements aimed at balancing historic preservation with new development and housing growth. The board discussed the challenges of parking, building heights, setbacks, and design compatibility across different downtown zones. No votes were taken on the design standards during this meeting, but the board planned further review and feedback in upcoming sessions. The meeting concluded with approval of prior meeting minutes and scheduling the next meeting for April 13 or 27, 2026.