Whether it’s driving to school or getting dropped off, the upcoming bond construction will make getting to Berkley High different from anything we’ve seen before. From Mar 17 all the way through Oct 2026, different parking lots and drop-off spaces will be majorly reduced or closed due to construction fences. The purpose of this construction will be to give Berkley additions of things like the choir room/black box theater, auditorium, BEAR complex, and much more. Because of these upgrades, they need space for construction equipment and vehicles. Although this construction will ultimately result in more parking and considerable upgrades for BHS, during this time there will be some inconvenience in students, staff, and parents’ everyday lives.
Senior Lot – Off of Sunnyknoll
The lot off of Sunnyknoll, known as the “Senior Lot” hosts a majority of the licensed student body and some staff members. But, starting the week of Mar 17, it will be reduced by at least half to accommodate the construction fence for the choir room/black box theater addition. It will remain reduced throughout the entirety of the school year, but next school year a majority of those spots should be opened up as the bulk of the construction should be finished by then. Parking in this lot will be on a “first come, first serve basis,” states Principal Mr. Meloche, explaining that, “Parking passes will no longer be enforced and students may not park in the staff lot near the gymnasium.”
Pull Through Drive – Off of Catalpa
Starting the week of May 1, the pull-through drive in front of the courtyard used primarily for parent drop-off, will be closed for the construction fence for the auditorium addition. It will remain closed until Aug when that construction should be completed. Mr. Meloche states that they are “asking parents to drop students off in the lot across the street during this time because you cannot stop on Catalpa Drive”.
Trash Lot – In Front of the Practice Field
The other student parking lot, located on Catalpa in front of the practice field and referred to as the “Trash Lot”, hosts the other part of the student body. Starting in April, this lot will be closed to accommodate the fence for the BEAR complex and will remain closed through Oct of 2026. Although this is a long time, Mr. Meloche believes this construction will remain a positive change to our school because “when it reopens, there will be much more student parking than there currently is now”.
“Students are highly encouraged to carpool, plan ahead, and overall try to minimize the number of vehicles on campus,” Mr. Melcohe recommends. “Should students choose to legally park in the street, we ask that they follow all traffic laws and be good citizens to our surrounding neighbors.” Mrs. Alpert, head of Student Service Center, also explains how there was a “community discussion” informing neighboring residents that students will be lining the nearby streets soon to avoid any potential conflicts. Although this will have a major impact on students and staff alike, it’s important to remember to have grace and patience, especially regarding arrival and dismissal. Again, if you are able, please consider carpooling, walking, or biking to school during this time.
