SPRINGFIELD, Mass. (WGGB/WSHM) - With academic operations at Hampshire College ending this December, Amherst is launching a major zoning study to plan for the future of the campus.

It’ll look at infrastructure, housing demand, and economic development options with a goal of expanding uses on the site.

Amherst’s priorities include more housing, small business development, and protecting sensitive habitat and farmland.

Town officials stress they’re not buying the land or controlling who the college sells to. They also say the Eric Carle Museum, Yiddish Book Center, and Hitchcock Center are not closing.

Draft zoning changes and a final report are expected by January of next year.

A virtual information session on the study is set for 6 p.m. next Tuesday. Details can be found here.

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