Saturday, March 30, 2013

Walkway could bridge gap with Buff State

By Michael Mazzuto and Mike Provenzano
BengalNews Reporters
          A potential walkway in Buffalo State College’s future could connect the campus to Amherst Street across the Scajaquada Expressway. 
       The college included the walkway proposal in its 2010
Source: Buffalo State Facilities Master Plan
Facilities Master Plan, which has provided a roadmap for the campus growth and change period from 2013 to 2023.  
          According to Dr. Daniel Velez, assistant to the Vice President of Student Affairs, easier access between the college and Amherst Street would cut down on parking congestion and create accessibility to local businesses. 
          The walkway would extend the campus’ footprint, with the hopes of providing students with access to Grant Street and other neighborhoods. “It would be great for students to have easier access to the neighborhoods,” Velez said.
           Before the project can move further, the college has to explore issues of safety and security.
           “We want to make sure it’s safe for students and well-lit,” Velez said. 
          Mark Kubiniec,  owner of Joe’s Service Center at the corner of Amherst Street and Elmwood Avenue and  head of the Grant/Amherst Business Association, says he and fellow Amherst Street business owners would welcome a direct contact with Buffalo State. He sees the walkway not only as a way to bring students from Buffalo State to Amherst and Grant, but something that makes living in the neighborhood more attractive.
       “Right now, it’s awkward for students to get to school from Amherst,” Kubiniec said.  “There are just all the bridges in the way, which makes the commute not the easiest. But there really is no down-side to it.”