If you've ever thought that it would be nice to see more college students heading off campus to explore their surrounding neighborhoods, then I have good news for you. Buffalo State College now has a Bengal Bucks Off-Campus Program that allows its students to use the 'declining balance dollar' system at local shops and restaurants. The first three businesses to accept the Bengal Bucks are Zonies and Elmwood Taco and Subs (photo: on Elmwood) and Subway (on Delaware). Buffalo State Dining is looking for additional businesses that are interested in taking advantage of the campus dollar program, and I would imagine that there are plenty of them out there that may not be aware of the opportunity. If you are aware of a business that you think might be a good fit, let the owner know that they must send in a request.
Allowing Bengal Bucks to be used off campus is a win-win scenario. Not only does this promote the student to explore his or her surroundings, it enables the business community to reap the rewards of being located in a college town. In recent years, the on-campus food, cafe, restaurant, dining options have become 'so good and so many' that some students don't feel the desire to head into town at all. Especially when all they have to do is whip out a loaded card to pay. The ease of using Bengal Bucks at collegiate amenities is hard to compete with, since Bengal Bucks are generally fueled by the wallets and the purses of the student's parents. I'm happy to say that the system is changing, and commercial districts such as Grant Street, Amherst Street and Elmwood Avenue should start to see more young people heading out to take advantage of the convenience.
Maybe they should partner with Buffalo First, and structure a more macro relationship that would encompass a lot of local establishments.