New Traffic Plan for the Opening of Amethyst Brook Elementary School
Architect's rendering of the new Amethyst Brook Elementary School. South drop off. Photo: amherstma.gov
Source: Amherst Regional Public Schools
The new Amethyst Brook Elementary School will open on Wednesday, August 26. The Amherst School District and the Town of Amherst are working together to help students, families, staff, and neighbors travel safely near the new school. The new school may bring more traffic to South East Street between Route 9 (Belchertown Road/College Street) and Main Street. Traffic may be busiest when students arrive in the morning and leave in the afternoon.
For the first few weeks of school, drivers should plan for extra travel time. Drivers may also want to use a different route when they can.
“We are very excited to welcome students and families to Amethyst Brook Elementary School,” said Superintendent Dr. E. Xiomara Herman (Dr. Xi). “Safety is our first priority. We are working closely with the town to help everyone get to and from school safely. We ask our families, neighbors, and drivers to please be patient as we all learn the new traffic plan.”
APD and DPW Will Help With Traffic
The Amherst Police Department will have officers near the school at the start and end of the school day. They will help drivers and buses move safely through the area.
The Amherst Department of Public Works also plans to add temporary traffic lights at one or both school entrances. The town will work to coordinate these lights with the traffic lights at Main Street and College Street.
The school district and town will watch traffic after school begins. Changes may be made if they are needed to help keep everyone safe.
How to Enter the School
Amethyst Brook Elementary School has two entrances on South East Street. Each entrance will have a different use.
- North Entrance: Parents, guardians, staff, and visitors should use this entrance when driving onto school property.
- South Entrance: Only school buses/vans may use this entrance.
- Walking from South East Street: Students and families walking to school from the front of the building should use the south entrance.
- Walking from Pelham Road: The walking path from Pelham Road to the back of the school will stay open. Students and families from nearby neighborhoods may continue to use this path.
Families should follow all signs and directions from police officers and school staff when arriving at or leaving the school.
“We know it will take some time for everyone to learn the new routine,” said Dr. Xi. “We can all help by following the traffic plan, giving ourselves extra time, and watching out for students who are walking to school.”
The Amherst School District thanks families, neighbors, and drivers for their patience and help as the new Amethyst Brook Elementary School opens for the 2026-2027 school year.
