Town Explores Zoning Options for Hampshire College Campus
The town of Amherst is conducting a study to explore rezoning options for the 800-acre Hampshire College campus, which is for sale. The goal is to draft new zoning by January 2027, primarily to accommodate new housing units. Town officials indicated during a public session that data centers are not considered a preferred use for the site due to concerns about water and energy resources.
The town of Amherst held its first public information session on July 21 to discuss a study on rezoning options for the 800-acre Hampshire College campus, which is slated to close permanently. The study, initiated by the town with a grant from MassDevelopment, aims to understand developable areas, infrastructure capacity, housing demand, and economic opportunities for the campus, currently zoned almost entirely for education.
Town Manager Paul Bockelman emphasized that while the town's preference is for housing development, the study does not dictate the college's sale process. The study is a collaborative effort with MassDevelopment, Horsley Witten Group, U3 Advisors, and Dodson & Flinker Landscape Architects, and is coordinated with the town of Hadley, where part of the campus is located. The Amherst Planning Board and Town Council will make final decisions on zoning changes.
Consultants indicated that preliminary estimates suggest about 200 acres are suitable for housing, potentially accommodating over 2,000 new units without major stress on existing utilities, though infrastructure improvements and updated permitting for water and sewer would be required. The goal is to produce recommendations and draft new zoning by January 2027.
During a question-and-answer session, town officials addressed various topics including recreational uses, open space, and commercial development. When asked about data centers, Town Manager Bockelman and Director of Planning Jeff Bagg stated that the town has not taken a formal position but is