Student driving, parking contribute to school’s local reputation

Street sign at the intersection of Buck Lane and Panmure Road – Connor Pinsk ’23

Since the first metaphorical brick was laid for the foundation of this school in 1884, Haverford has affected nearby communities, from helping local churches to packing parking lots for sports games. 

However, the close neighbors of the school are affected the most. At every hour of the day, Fords drive to school, sports, and other events. 

With Haverford’s reputation at risk every day with the possibility of a student driving carelessly, this naturally begs the question: What is Haverford’s driving and parking reputation to the community?

Some students acknowledge the tension. 

“There’s constant traffic—kids walking and driving everywhere,”

Mookie Dombar ’27

“There’s constant traffic—kids walking and driving everywhere,” Fifth Former Mookie Dombar said. “It’s kind of annoying because there are a lot of kids doing whatever they want, and it lines up with the complaints the school gets.”

Others have run into problems with parking itself. 

“I’ve had to use two-hour parking zones before when I couldn’t get to Panmure [Road] in time,” Sixth Former James Friel said, though he noted off-campus parking hasn’t caused him major problems.

For students without campus spots, finding a place can be difficult and time-consuming.. 

“There are so few spots on campus and they’re only for seniors,” Fifth Former Ezra Walters said. “The rest of us either get to Panmure early or move our car every two hours, which the teachers hate because they think it’s unnecessary and disruptive. Also, parents sometimes take parking spots in the morning.” 

However, the tight parking space does not affect everyone. 

“I live on the other side of Panmure, so the parking situation hasn’t really affected me,” Fifth Former Hugh Williams said. “However, students should only be able to park if they’re careful while driving in the neighborhood.” 

As Haverford continues to grow, the relationship between students and the surrounding neighborhood will depend on awareness, caution, and respect. The school’s reputation doesn’t stop at its gates—it follows every car that pulls out of the lot.