GREENVILLE, N.C. (WNCT) — The first day of classes for ECU is less than three weeks away which means many Pirates are making their way back to Greenville. Businesses in the East are working to prepare for the students and the uptick they bring when they’re back in the area.

Some businesses have been using the down time to improve their Uptown Greenville locations.

“We put down new floors, we added extra air conditioning,” says Sup Dogs Owner Bret Oliverio. We added some new decorations around the restaurant. We’re really excited. It takes the energy inside of Sup Dogs to a whole new level.”

Over the summer months, Sup Dogs doesn’t necessarily slow down but hosts a different crowd.

“We’ve had more families and more people from Greenville hanging out downtown which is awesome,” says Oliverio. “So when the students get back we’re going to mix the students with the families and locals and it’s really going to fun.”

While some residents say they’re concerned with how the groups will mix, one young resident says she’s looking forward to fall which translates to Pirate Football season.

“It’s a little bit crazy but I like watching the football players tackle each other,” says 9-year-old Katie Satterfield.

Classes start Monday, August 22. The first ECU home football game is Saturday, September 3 against Western Carolina.