SUNY Erie Community College Board of Trustees has given the green light to a new location for the school’s south campus in Orchard Park. The approved lease for the site at 50 Cobham Dr. marks an exciting development for the college, pending the final approval from the state’s Department of Education.
The upcoming campus, situated slightly east of its current address at 4041 Southwestern Blvd., is set to offer a modern and spacious facility spanning approximately 37,000 square feet. This new space will cater to various needs of students, faculty, and staff, featuring multiple classroom areas, a science lab, a library, a computer lab, a student services office, a food pantry, faculty offices, and a student lounge.
Dr. Adiam Tsegai, President of SUNY Erie, expressed enthusiasm for the approved relocation, stating, “This has been in the works for a long time. I believe this new location will benefit our students, faculty, and staff. This decision speaks to my commitment and the board’s commitment to fulfilling the college’s fundamental principle of Institutional Sustainability, which aims to enhance the experience of learning and student services by creating spaces that inspire pride in the institution.”
The decision to move the south campus was not influenced by the construction of the new Buffalo Bills stadium, which is near the current campus on Southwestern Boulevard. SUNY Erie Board Chairman Jeff Stone clarified, “This decision was an analysis of what our current buildings were doing for us and what they were not doing for us. The buildings on Southwestern Boulevard served us well in the past, but now our needs are different. This would have happened whether the Bills had chosen to build a new stadium or not. We’re very grateful to the Bills for being a good neighbor and for their partnership.”
The new facility is expected to be handed over to SUNY Erie by mid-summer of 2025, with classes commencing in the fall of the same year. In the meantime, classes for the fall semester of 2024 will continue at the Southwestern Boulevard campus, ensuring a smooth transition for students and faculty.
### Benefits of the New Location
The approval of the new campus location in Orchard Park brings forth a multitude of benefits for SUNY Erie Community College. The upgraded facilities and strategic positioning are poised to enhance the overall educational experience for students and contribute to the growth and development of the institution.
With modern amenities such as expanded classroom areas, a science lab, and a library, students will have access to state-of-the-art resources to support their academic pursuits. Additionally, the inclusion of a computer lab, student services office, and faculty offices will facilitate a conducive learning environment and streamline administrative processes.
The introduction of a food pantry underscores SUNY Erie’s commitment to supporting student well-being and addressing food insecurity within the college community. This initiative aligns with broader efforts in higher education to create a more inclusive and supportive campus environment for all students.
Furthermore, the provision of a student lounge offers a designated space for students to relax, socialize, and engage in extracurricular activities, fostering a sense of community and camaraderie among the student body. Overall, the new campus location promises to be a hub of academic excellence, innovation, and student engagement for SUNY Erie Community College.
### Community Impact and Engagement
The relocation of the south campus to Orchard Park not only benefits the college but also has a positive impact on the surrounding community. By establishing a presence in a new area, SUNY Erie is poised to contribute to the economic development and vitality of Orchard Park and its residents.
The influx of students, faculty, and staff to the new campus location will bring increased foot traffic and activity to the area, potentially creating opportunities for local businesses and service providers. This symbiotic relationship between the college and the community fosters collaboration and mutual support, creating a thriving ecosystem where both entities can thrive.
Moreover, the presence of SUNY Erie in Orchard Park presents opportunities for community engagement and collaboration. The college can partner with local organizations, schools, and businesses to offer educational programs, internships, and outreach initiatives that benefit both students and community members.
By being an active and engaged member of the Orchard Park community, SUNY Erie can cultivate relationships, foster a sense of belonging, and contribute positively to the social fabric of the area. This alignment with the local community underscores the college’s commitment to being a responsible and responsive institution that values community partnerships and collaboration.
### Future Growth and Expansion
The approval of the new campus location in Orchard Park sets the stage for future growth and expansion opportunities for SUNY Erie Community College. The state-of-the-art facilities and strategic positioning of the campus provide a solid foundation for the college to build upon and enhance its academic offerings and student services.
As SUNY Erie continues to evolve and adapt to the changing landscape of higher education, the new campus location offers flexibility and scalability to accommodate future growth and innovation. The modern amenities and resources available at the new facility position the college to attract and retain top-tier faculty, students, and staff, further enhancing its reputation as a leading educational institution.
Moreover, the relocation to Orchard Park opens up possibilities for collaboration with local businesses, industries, and community organizations, fostering partnerships that can drive innovation, research, and economic development. By leveraging its new location and resources, SUNY Erie can position itself as a hub of creativity, entrepreneurship, and academic excellence in the region.
In conclusion, the approval of the new campus location for SUNY Erie Community College in Orchard Park represents a significant milestone in the institution’s growth and development. The modern facilities, strategic positioning, and community engagement opportunities offered by the new campus promise to elevate the college’s academic offerings, student services, and overall impact on the community. As SUNY Erie prepares to transition to its new location, the college is poised to embark on a new chapter of innovation, growth, and excellence in higher education.