Many businesses surrounding the College of Saint Rose that rely on purchases from the student population will be greatly affected by the college’s closure in 2024.

Businesses now face a task of filling in the gaps.

Among them is Joe Bonilla of Motor Oil Coffee. This was the worst possible outcome for businesses and students, he said.

“I’ll tell you this. It’s a 30% difference when students are not here to when they are here. We’re expecting a 50% drop when the school closes,” Bonilla said. “We’re hoping that city, state and community leaders will get together and figure out a solution, hopefully, to reimagine this campus, so therefore, this neighborhood can thrive.”