The CBAC oversees the Central Business Architecture Ordinance, whose purpose is to preserve and enhance the pedestrian-scale character, culture, economy of downtown Northampton by preserving historic and architecturally valuable buildings and features, and by encouraging compatible building design. A volunteer board composed of representatives from the real estate industry, the Chamber of Commerce, the Northampton Historical Commission, the building and construction trades industry and a registered architect come together as needed for technical assistance and public hearings for permit applications for downtown renovation and construction projects requiring design review.

Current members include:

Bruce Kriviskey,Chair (term expires 2013)
Joseph Blumenthal, (term expires 2015)
Robert Walker (term expires 2008)
Aelan Tierney (term expires 2014)
Barry Steeves (term expires 2015)
Rick Klein, Alternate (term expires 2010)