VALLEY STREET ROAD CLOSURES TO CONTINUE AS SCHOOL BEGINS

The traffic problems we have had to endure for the past few weeks due to Valley Street construction and repair by New Jersey American Water were supposed to end after today.

But new word from the Township and the school district indicates at least some of it will continue and likely disrupt students walking to the first days of classes this coming week.

Notices from both entities below indicate parents and motorists need to brace for continued problems.

From Maplewood Police:

From the school district:

SOMSD Families:

The Maplewood Police Department has informed us that the Valley Street project will not be concluded before school starts, and that work is planned for Maplewood Avenue in September as well, which may impact transportation to and from school. The Police Department is working with us to minimize disruption to school traffic, including scheduling remaining work between 9am – 2:30pm. Their Traffic Alert is attached.

Please allow extra time traveling to and from schools affected by this construction.  You may wish to think of alternate routes in advance, in case your normal path to school is blocked.

If your child takes a bus, there may be delays.  Please be patient, and wait at your child’s bus stop until the bus arrives. 

All school administrators are aware of these potential delays, so that they can appropriately respond to late arrivals.

Thank you for your continued cooperation as we work together to ensure the safety and well-being of all of our students, both on and off campus.

We hope you have a safe and relaxing Labor Day weekend.  We look forward to welcoming students and families back to school next week!

South Orange Maplewood School District