Amherst Studies Zoning Options for Hampshire College Campus
AMHERST — Amherst has begun a zoning study to determine future uses of the Hampshire College campus after the college announced it will end academic operations in December 2026, the town said this week.
TOWN HALL
The Town of Amherst initiated a zoning study to develop options for the Hampshire College campus property following the college's announcement that it will cease academic operations after December 2026. The study is intended to prepare the town for whatever comes next on the site.
Separately, the town detailed planned Bangs Community Center renovations, which include health and safety upgrades, improved accessibility, and improvements to the Senior Center and the area near Room 101. The building will stay open throughout construction, with completion expected in early 2027.
The town also launched a new Agenda and Minutes Center webpage, consolidating agendas, minutes, and video links for all town meetings in one location. And applications are open for All About Amherst: Civic Academy, a free eight-week program that lets residents learn how town government runs, meet staff, and take behind-the-scenes tours; the application deadline is Sunday, September 20.
COMMUNITY & ARTS
DinoMap Live, a program at the Beneski Museum of Natural History, is scheduled for Sunday, August 23.
ELSEWHERE IN THE NEWS
"UMass growing robotics program with $2M grant," reports Franklin County Now. UMass Amherst secured a $2 million grant that will fund expansion of its robotics research program, though the outlet's release did not detail specific projects (read it at https://franklincountynow.com/news/216612-umass-growing-robotics-program-with-2m-grant/).
COMING UP
Today, August 22, brings the Amherst Farmers Market, open-play pickleball at Mill River, and Ice Cream in the Park; it is also the last day to register to vote for the September 1 State Primary. Open-play pickleball at Mill River continues Sunday, August 23. On the municipal side, the Local Historic District Commission, Amherst Housing Authority, and Amherst Municipal Affordable Housing Trust all meet Monday, August 24; the Energy and Climate Action Committee meets Wednesday, August 26; and the Zoning Board of Appeals meets Thursday, August 27.
Compiled from official town feeds, community organizations, and local press. Outside reporting is attributed inline.