Beacon Communities
CUSTOMER SUCCESS STORY
How Beacon Communities Strengthened Communication and Built Trust Online
Strengthening communication to encourage community support
When Beacon Communities proposed a mixed-use development in Amherst, MA, they knew that building consensus and earning community trust was going to be essential in order for the project to succeed. North Square at the Mill District was positioned to fill vital local housing and economic development needs, but community members had concerns about the project’s size and impact.
“With coUrbanize, we were able to build a buzz and resonate with the community early on in the process. The project page allowed us to communicate naturally from one place. coUrbanize gave a voice to busy people, and the resulting comments reaffirmed the project vision. We received approvals on schedule.”
Darcy Jameson
Beacon Communities
Activating Silent Supporters
Beacon started communications early, enabling silent supporters to contribute to the conversation from the beginning. Six months before formal hearings began, Beacon launched a series of community meetings and debuted the project with coUrbanize.
Activating Silent Supporters
Beacon started communications early, enabling silent supporters to contribute to the conversation from the beginning. Six months before formal hearings began, Beacon launched a series of community meetings and debuted the project with coUrbanize.
Building Online Support
Beacon Communities established coUrbanize as the single source for all project information, using it to educate and inform the community before in-person public meetings. Community members, including supporters who were unable to attend in person, shared comments and constructive ideas online.
In under five months, Beacon earned approval from the Amherst Zoning and other boards, and received a critical affordable housing tax incentive-the first of its kind in Amherst.
Saving Time & Financial Resources
Using coUrbanize, Beacon Communities shortened their approvals process, saving valuable time and resources.
By designing a project that met the Town’s goals and maintaining a platform of open communication on coUrbanize, Beacon significantly shortened their time frame for approvals. Now, they’re continuing to use coUrbanize to provide the community with regular construction updates, and to start marketing North Square’s new apartments and retail opportunities.
