Update About On-campus Parking and Bus Schedules
Earlier this week, Shane Conklin, associate vice chancellor for facilities and campus services, emailed students with an update on parking, bus schedules and avoiding transportation delays.
That email is as follows:
We wanted to share some important information about on-campus parking and PVTA schedules so you can make informed decisions about travel to and around campus during the first few weeks of the semester.
Below, you'll find information about:
- Modified and/or reduced PVTA Bus Schedules
- Limited On Campus Parking Permits and Local Parking Restrictions
- Additional Options for Travel to and Around Campus
We hope these tips help you get to campus on time and have a great first week of classes.
Thank you,
Shane Conklin
Associate Vice Chancellor for Facilities & Campus Service
PVTA Bus Schedules
Due to the Covid-19 pandemic and a shortage of qualified drivers, some routes have been modified from standard full service. Review detailed route information on UMass Transit’s website or from additional sources such as the Transit mobile app.
PVTA bus use is very high at the beginning of every semester and buses to campus tend to fill prior to the last stop before campus. Passengers are strongly encouraged to take buses much earlier than their classes begin in order to avoid overcrowding. Do not wait for the last bus to campus before class, or you may not get there on time. Those who live within walking distance to campus are strongly advised to walk or bike to campus. Full buses will not be able to stop to pick up additional passengers waiting at bus stops.
Please note, face masks covering mouth and nose are required at all times while riding public transportation.
For more information about PVTA routes, schedules, and student employment opportunities please visit UMass Transit’s website.
Questions regarding the PVTA can be sent to transit@umass.edu.
On Campus Parking
Parking Services experienced extraordinary demand for student parking this semester. At this time all student parking lots are sold out. Students still seeking on campus parking are welcome to join a waitlist for all student parking lots. If spaces become available, Parking Services will offer permits to waitlisted individuals on a first come, first served basis.
On campus residents without a parking permit should return their vehicle back home or secure parking off campus. Planning to park at a friend’s place or nearby street? Please note, all rental properties in Amherst and the local area have limited parking for tenants only as noted on their lease. Extra vehicles parked at a rental may be towed or result in fines to the tenants. Nearby streets and businesses have similar restrictions. Be sure to receive confirmation of your ability to park to avoid being ticketed or towed.
Off campus residents without a parking permit are encouraged to bike, walk, or use the PVTA, to get to campus. Students without a parking permit who drive to campus will need to park in the Campus Center parking garage or at metered spots around campus. Please note, high demand for metered parking is expected during the first few weeks of the semester. Metered spaces and the Campus Center parking garage may be at or near capacity during the day. Please plan to arrive to campus early in case you have difficulty finding a parking space.
Permitted parking lots will be staffed to help redirect drivers without permits and assist permit holders should a lot reach capacity. Parking in permitted lots without a permit will result in a ticket.
For more information about on campus parking, please visit Parking Services’ website. Questions about parking can be sent to parking@umass.edu
Additional Options for Travel to and Around Campus
Given the high demand for parking and bus use at the beginning of the semester we wanted to provide you with alternative ideas for travel to campus. The following suggestions also have the added benefit of reducing your carbon footprint and adding to sustainability efforts of our campus community.
- Walk to classes or campus if you live close enough
It’s the easiest way to get your steps in and you don’t have to wait for a bus or find parking!
- Bike to and around campus whenever possible
There are plenty of bike racks located around campus to secure your bike. Don’t have a bike? UMass and neighboring towns partnered with ValleyBike to bring a bike share to the region. View their website for pricing details, bike locations, and more.
- Use the PVTA to get to campus
Utilizing public transportation greatly reduces carbon emissions. Remember, if you live close enough to campus it’s best to bike or walk to avoid waiting for a bus that may be too full.
- Carpool to campus with friends and colleagues
Carpooling is a great option if a friend or roommate has a parking permit. It helps reduce carbon emissions and makes it easier to park.