A new program aims to make Downtown more appetizing to Binghamton University students.

Every week different Downtown businesses will offer weekday lunch discounts to students who present their BU IDs. This week, nine restaurants on Court and Washington Street will offer specials from 11:15 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.

“It’s a partnership between the Student Association and the City of Binghamton to get more students involved in the City, in particular the Downtown area,” said Student Association President David Bass.

The program is in its second week and Bass expects participation to increase as the weeks pass.

“It’s a great thing, you know, you can even get an early dinner, and there are some major discounts,” Bass said. “Next week could add even another five restaurants.”

Last week both Dillinger’s Celtic Pub & Eatery and Java Joe’s participated. This week’s participants include Nirchi’s Pizza, Old World Deli, On the Roxx, Rolando’s Diner and Pepe’s BBQ.

“I thought it was a great idea, you know it can’t hurt to try it,” said Steve Shaffer, the owner of Pepe’s.

Shaffer said that he hopes this program will improve daytime business for the sub shop and pizzeria.

“Parking’s a real problem during the day, so any business we can get is a good thing,” he said.

Flyers announcing the week’s specials will be available on Off Campus College Transport buses.

“My goal is to get students to know that it’s happening, and to get them to go out and get some food,” Bass said.

The discounts are just one part of the City of Binghamton’s larger goal to increase student presence Downtown and bolster the local economy. As part of another initiative, much of Downtown Binghamton has been equipped with wireless Internet so that students can do work while patronizing local businesses.

“In the good weather, it’s nice to find some places Downtown and just sit out and relax with your computer,” Bass said.