Transportation in Amherst
Envisioning New Ways to Get Around Town
In Amherst, we walk, bike, drive, carpool, and take public transit. U.S. Census data shows us that Amherst residents' dominant means of commuting is driving alone, the dirtiest (GHG-heaviest) means of travel.
We envision a zero-emissions transportation future, one where we drive electric but also drive less, opting for alternative transportation. We're already on our way: Amherst's percentage of commuters who drive alone to work (42%) is more than 19% lower than the statewide Massachusetts average (61.5%).
Source: American Community Survey (2022)
Electric Vehicles
Locate EV Charging Stations Near You
Amherst is committed to making transitioning to an EV as accessible as possible for everyone. To that end, the Town plans to enhance and expand local EV infrastructure to support our community's transition away from traditional combustion engine vehicles.
The Town of Amherst currently offers multiple public EV charging stations for a total of 14 charging ports at the following locations:
- Town Hall
- Downtown parking garage (2 chargers)
- Anne Whalen apartment complex
- Pray St. parking lot
- Amherst-Pelham Regional Middle School
Use the map to find additional charging locations in our area →
Alternative Transportation
Take Advantage of Top-Notch Transit
To support safe, accessible, and low-carbon transportation in town, Amherst plans to continue developing a robust system that supports convenient and enjoyable alternatives to driving alone by car. For that reason, our community is fortunate to be a member of the Pioneer Valley Transit Authority, both an excellent service provider and Town partner.
Taking public transit instead of driving, whether it be by bus or train, is a great way to start cutting down the transportation emissions you produce from driving a gas-powered car.
Alternative Transportation
Borrow an E-Assist Bike Through ValleyBike Share
Feel like a kid again when you ride an e-assist bike from the ValleyBike share program! Afraid of hills? Don't sweat it (literally) because the bike will do most of the work for you! Simply register for a membership or pay as you ride. Use your app to unlock the bike and take it for a spin. Park it when you're done at one of the conveniently located hubs around the Pioneer Valley. This winter (2024-2025) bikes will remain available all season.
Biking is an emission-free way to get around town and the surrounding areas. Another bonus when more folks bike is less traffic! Help us reduce our emissions in Amherst by swapping out your car for that wind-in-your face feeling on one of the many ValleyBikes available in town.
Make sure to visit the ValleyBike website for FAQs, links to the app, pricing information, and more.
What You Can Do
Traveling Sustainably is Safe, Affordable, and Easy
Between Electric Vehicles and Public Transit, traveling sustainably is a breeze. Here are some resources to get you started!
