Cardinal McCarrick/St. Mary's High School in South Amboy to close after 130 years

SOUTH AMBOY (WABC) -- After 130 years, Cardinal McCarrick/St. Mary's High School in South Amboy is closing its doors.

The Diocese of Metuchen announced on Wednesday that the school with 210 students will not reopen in the fall. Cardinal McCarrick/St. Mary's has the capacity for close to 500 students.

The decision will not impact Sacred Heart Elementary School, the diocese said.

The Diocese of Metuchen said a number of other factors influenced the decision, including capital improvement needs.

According to diocesan officials, over the past five years alone, the diocese has invested over $7.3 million in operating Cardinal McCarrick High School. The diocese said it could not sustain the cost.

"This is a very difficult and emotional decision and was not taken lightly by anyone involved," said Ellen Ayoub, diocesan Superintendent of Schools.

Current and incoming students will have the option to attend the Bishop Ahr High School in Edison, also a diocesan school.

Bishop Ahr will hold open house information sessions for Cardinal McCarrick students and their parents on May 28, June 3 and June 8. Parents can call 732-549-1108 for more information.