With spring break in the past and on the heels of April, thoughts of summer are starting to enter Bucknell students’ minds. Before returning to Lewisburg each fall, we look forward to the start of campus activities, seeing our friends after months apart, and sunny Saturdays downtown before cold weather strikes. Despite our excellent dining facilities, it can be hard to leave behind our usual chain picks. Although we love our local spots, including Mercado Burrito and the new Amami Kitchen & Espresso Bar (seriously try the bacon and Nutella panini), there has always been a gaping hole in the hearts of thousands of college students in Lewisburg for usual favorites. With fake Yik Yaks confirming that Chipotle was not replacing Stream Cafe last year, more Mexican food and coffee options are often on our minds. Brace yourselves, Bucknellians; our prayers have been answered.
A few weeks ago, The Daily Item, a local newspaper, confirmed the opening of a new shopping center near Evangelical Hospital. The shopping center will be located on Route 15 near Big Lots, and will include a Verizon store, Supercuts, Starbucks, and Chipotle. While there is no exact opening date, we expect both restaurants to open in the next few months near the beginning of fall semester. The opening of Starbucks means collegiettes will no longer be limited to the Bison, Panera, and Dunkin’ Donuts for coffee.
The new restaurants also bring new possibilities for Bucknell students in the future. With the opening of a new dining hall and more options off campus, this could be the start of more dining variety in what is often described as a “small college town.” The new additions also add the possibility for more University involvement in the local area. Sophomore Holly Grosholz ’17 adds, “I think it’s something the students want and have been asking for, although it would be nicer if they were on Market as opposed to Route 15 because it will be limiting to students who don’t have cars. It would be great if the shuttle could add it to their stop like they did with Panera and Weis.” Perhaps with these new additions, Bucknell will start to take action to assist students with taking advantage of these new options.
With this news, we begin our countdown to Fall 2015 when we can go to class with real Starbucks coffee in hand. Thank you rural Pennsylvania. We Bucknellians are most appreciative.