Crime and Pollution in Amherst
The following data and statistics on crime, pollution, and overall safety in Amherst are derived from a combination of trusted public sources and insights gathered from over 5 user contributions.
This comprehensive approach helps provide a balanced view of the city's crime rates, environmental concerns, air quality, and public safety. By aggregating information from government reports, environmental studies, and direct feedback from residents, we aim offer an up-to-date and thorough analysis of key factors impacting quality of life in Amherst.
Crime Data in Amherst
Crime Perception and Concerns
In 2024, Amherst presents a reassuring picture with its low crime index, indicating a generally safe environment. Concerns about crime are minimal, with a significant number of residents feeling secure in their community.
Amherst residents enjoy a high sense of safety, both during daylight and nighttime, reflecting a strong public confidence in community safety efforts.
Some notable concerns include:
- Property Crimes - Property crimes in Amherst are perceived to be of low concern, with residents expressing confidence in their safety against theft and home burglaries. Public sentiment suggests effective preventive measures in place.
- Drug-Related Issues - Concerns related to drug-related crimes are relatively low but warrant monitoring to maintain the current safety levels. Community vigilance and local law enforcement can continue to keep these issues in check.
- Violent Crimes - Violent crimes are not a significant concern for the residents of Amherst. The public's confidence reflects the city's effective law enforcement and community outreach programs.
- Public Safety - Most Amherst residents feel very safe both during the day and at night. The community's low worry about assault and robbery highlights success in public safety measures and community policing efforts.
Crime Trends and Safety
- Rising Crime Concerns - While some residents note a slight increase in crime perception, particularly around minor offenses, the overall sentiment remains confident in the community's security measures.
- Specific Fears - Despite low overall fears, certain populations may have concerns about specific crimes, such as theft. There is minimal worry about harassment based on race or religion due to the city's inclusive community values.
Summary of Crime in Amherst
Amherst's crime rates are low, and the strong sense of safety contributes to its reputation as a secure place to live. Continued focus on maintaining this safety through community programs and law enforcement support is essential for future improvements.
Crime Rankings
The crime ranking by city for the United States is based on a continuously updated index, incorporating data up to 36 months old and calculated twice a year. Cities are ranked on a scale from "very low" to "very high" crime levels, with safety being the inverse, where a high safety index indicates a safer city.
Pollution Data in Amherst
Air Quality and Pollution Levels
Amherst showcases excellent air quality, benefiting from a low pollution index. The city prides itself on maintaining a breathable and healthy environment.
Residents express high satisfaction with air quality, emphasizing the city's commitment to environmental health and sustainability.
- PM2.5 (Fine Particulate Matter) - The PM2.5 levels in Amherst are well within safe limits, affirming the community's efforts to maintain clean air and minimize pollution sources, particularly beneficial for all age groups.
- PM10 (Coarse Particulate Matter) - With PM10 levels also low, Amherst ensures a healthy environment conducive to outdoor activities, essential for the residents' well-being.
Waste and Noise Pollution
While waste and noise pollution are not major issues for Amherst, continuous efforts in waste management can enhance community satisfaction.
Residents might rate garbage disposal and noise issues as neutral, highlighting room for improvement and sustained focus on urban planning.
- Garbage Disposal Satisfaction - Residents' perception of garbage disposal indicates a neutral stance, suggesting adequate services but with potential for enhancements in waste management practices.
- Noise and Light Pollution - Noise and light pollution are maintained at low levels, fostering a peaceful living environment in Amherst, although ongoing monitoring can help maintain these satisfactory conditions.
Green Spaces and Water Quality
Amherst’s commitment to maintaining quality green spaces is evident, providing residents with opportunities for recreation and relaxation.
The community values water quality, though further enhancements in accessibility and sustainability could be prioritized.
- Green and Parks Quality - Green spaces in Amherst are appreciated for their aesthetic and recreational value, though community feedback suggests more development could increase public benefit.
- Drinking Water Quality - Water quality in Amherst is perceived neutrally; maintaining regular checks and improvements can ensure continued public health satisfaction.
Pollution Rankings
The pollution ranking for the United States is based on a combination of visitor perceptions and data from institutions like the World Health Organization. The Pollution Index estimates overall pollution levels by considering air and water pollution, garbage disposal, and other factors, with air pollution given the highest weight, while the Pollution Exp Scale uses an exponential function to highlight extremely polluted cities.
"Key Takeaways"
Amherst continues to maintain a strong stance on safety, with low crime concerns and high public confidence in both urban and suburban areas.
Pollution issues, particularly air quality, are managed effectively, contributing to a healthy environment praised by residents.
To optimize urban living, maintaining low crime rates and improving waste management practices are essential, while Amherst's green spaces and air quality remain strengths to be capitalized on in future planning.