Is Elmwood going to be landing another bank? That's what the buzz is. On the same block that is about to see a longstanding vacant restaurant filled, and an ex-Burger King remodeled into a taco and sub business, the newest addition might not be retail... but it is a longstanding business... Evans National Bank. Actually, another rumor that had been floated around a while back was that Greater Buffalo Savings Bank was eyeing the Sunoco station across the street. That would have been a real coupe for urban design proponents, but supposedly the price of the property was jacked up when owners discovered that a bank was on the prowl. As for Evans National Bank? I guess it's all about timing. The ETS location is a very high profile corner location.
It also looks like Bank of America is moving forward with their plans to convert the Pier 1 building into a branch. The Elmwood Village Association's design committee is working with the bank's architects to possibly add a faux second floor to enhance design continuity. Who knows… maybe the bank might draw additional businesses onto the avenue. The rest of that commercial stretch has been gaining strength with the news of NEO moving in. Unfortunately, the larger retail space opportunities are dwindling, but that might be good news for storefronts like the former DVD.Dot that can be found outside the major walking paths.
It looks like the burgeoning Elmwood District is attracting big money. Maybe having more borrowing options for small business is a good thing. Or banking options for the consumer? I would imagine that customers would also shop around for the best rates with so many bank options within walking distance. With all of the growth seen from banks such as Greater Buffalo Savings Bank, it is no wonder that Evans is looking to gain a foothold in such a commercial district. Currently Evans is located in Amherst, Angola, Derby, Evans, Forestville, Hamburg, Lancaster, North Boston, North Buffalo and West Seneca and New York.