BUFFALO, N.Y. (WKBW) — The University at Buffalo says its Campus Dining and Shops (CDS) has developed a COVID-19 plan to serve students and other members for the fall semester.
“We understand these are certainly challenging times, but our goal is to make sure we provide food service in the safest way possible,” says Raymond Kohl, CDS marketing manager. “Our staff is ready to meet everyone and serve everyone. Guests might not be able to see it, but there certainly will be a smile underneath their masks.”
A website has been set up so students and families can find the most updated information on dining and other services.
A new mobile app called GET has also been developed which links students’ UB Cards right to their smartphones.
The app allows for a contactless transactions and can be used to order food, make reservations, add funds and pay.
UB says the Crossroads Culinary Center (C3) will be open from 4:30-8:30 p.m. nightly beginning August 22 and will function as an all-you-care-to-eat dining center. The dining center will use a zoned and timed reservation system through the app.
The dining center will be split into four zones with 50 seats each. There will be no buffet facilities, students will go to the stations and food will be served to them, they can then return to their tables and eat for 45 minutes.
A 15 minute window will be in place before the next group is allowed so the area can be cleaned, disinfected and sanitized.
Officials say individuals should remain six feet apart except for when accepting food and must wear a face covering in public spaces unless actively eating or drinking.
The dining areas at Governors Complex on the North Campus and Goodyear on the South Campus will operate as retail food locations and have limited seating available on a first-come, first-served basis.
Locations in the student union marketplace such as Tim Hortons, Jamba Juice, Moe’s and Champa Sushi, will be open for takeout. The dining area at Pistachio's will be closed. Bravo Pasta will be open for mobile orders and pickup only.
"UB Cards will be swiped to deduct meals, dining points, Campus Cash and FlexiBull Bucks at all locations. But diners are strongly encouraged to download the GET app and use the scan card feature for a contactless transaction," the university says.
The fall dining schedule begins August 22.
