Imagine a quiet neighborhood street suddenly becoming a battleground between a college’s safety concerns and residents’ daily routines. That’s exactly what’s happening in Springfield, Massachusetts, where Springfield College is once again pushing to close a portion of Wilbraham Avenue—despite fierce opposition from locals. This isn’t the first time the idea has surfaced, but it’s the latest chapter in a debate that pits student safety against community convenience. And this is the part most people miss: while the college cites a recent student injury as a critical reason, neighbors argue they’ve already voiced their strong disapproval—loud and clear.
Here’s the full story: Springfield College is petitioning the city to shut down Wilbraham Avenue between Hickory and King Streets, claiming it’s a safety hazard after a student was struck by a car earlier this year. The college’s director of facilities, Kevin Roy, points to a commissioned study that highlights frequent accidents, particularly at the intersection of Wilbraham and Alden Streets. The study concludes that closing the street would significantly reduce risks. But here’s where it gets controversial: residents of the Old Hill and Upper Hill neighborhoods aren’t buying it. They’ve been here before—about 2½ years ago—when the same proposal was met with a resounding ‘no.’
‘Folks were not excited with this,’ City Councilor Justin Hurst recalled, referencing the earlier petition. Hurst and other councilors are now questioning whether closing the street would unfairly burden residents who rely on it as a key route. ‘As far as I know, it’s a unanimous ‘heck no,’ added City Councilor Malo Brown, who represents the area. ‘I can assure you no one in the community wants it.’
The proposal has already cleared one hurdle: the city’s Board of Public Works (BPW) recommended its approval, citing improved public safety. If approved, the road would be turned over to Springfield College, which owns the surrounding property, though easements would be needed for utilities. The college has pledged to maintain storm drains and sidewalks for the safety of both students and residents.
But the debate doesn’t end there. College President Mary-Beth Cooper shared a personal anecdote about the dangers of crossing Wilbraham Avenue, recalling a student who was severely injured at the intersection. ‘I cross that street every morning when I walk to the gym, and it is the most dangerous thing I do every day,’ she said. Yet, Cooper clarified the college has no plans to close any part of Alden Street.
When Hurst suggested sending the proposal to a subcommittee for further review—and to give residents a chance to weigh in—Cooper didn’t object. However, she emphasized that every day the street remains open, the danger persists. Other councilors agreed, stressing that the neighborhood deserves a say, especially since they’ve already expressed concerns.
And this is where it gets even more complicated: City Councilor Zaida Govan sees this as an opportunity to revisit the issue of payments in lieu of taxes (PILOTs). With colleges, healthcare facilities, and other nonprofits exempt from property taxes, the city is pushing for voluntary contributions to ease residents’ tax burdens. Could this proposal be a bargaining chip in that larger conversation? It’s a question worth asking.
The council unanimously voted to send the proposal to its general government committee on February 2, but there’s no timeline for further action. Meanwhile, Wilbraham Avenue remains a flashpoint, with the college advocating for safety and residents fighting to keep their route intact. Is closing the street a necessary safety measure, or an unnecessary inconvenience? We want to hear from you—share your thoughts in the comments below.
