Maplewood Parking Changes For New School Year May Cause Delays

MAPLEWOOD, NJ — As the new school year begins, staff at the Maplewood schools are limited in finding parking spots due to construction projects and COVID restrictions. The township is making changes to address the problem, said the town's police chief in an announcement.

The district construction projects will impact traffic, parking and pedestrians walking to and around schools in Maplewood, said Chief Jim DeVaul. Some district parking areas will be unavailable to the staff and public.

The Chief Noted These Changes:

• School district teachers and staff will be issued permits by the Township to park on the street during the day without timed parking restrictions.
• The Police Department, in support of the district needs and student safety, may implement temporary road closures in these areas as well.
• Residents should expect traffic delays, parking limitations, and/or temporary road closures and plan accordingly to avoid the area whenever possible.
• Parents, friends or guardians planning to drop off children should do so without causing additional delays. Parents, friends or guardians planning to bring their children into school should anticipate delays and be prepared to park a distance away and walk whenever possible.

Dr. Ronald Taylor, Superintendent of Schools for SOMSD, added, "We are so grateful to our Township Officials and Police Partners for working with our District Leaders and Principals to maximize the space on (and adjacent to) our grounds for expanded outdoor lunch and recess activities. Our Covid-19 health and wellness protocols, along with our current onsite construction, presented serious logistical challenges that we have been able to successfully address for the 2021-2022 school year."

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