A milestone will be reached in Western New York when Subway Restaurants officially opens its 100th store in downtown Buffalo on May 3.

The 100th store, located at 410 Main Street, is owned by Mike and Patty Colletti of Orchard Park, who became franchisees in 1990 and are the area’s longest tenured Subway owners. Originally from Western New York, the Collettis own four other Subways in the area. The Collettis’ two children, Michael and Melissa, are also part of the company’s operation.

To celebrate the 100th Subway, Buffalo’s Mayor Byron W. Brown and common council members have been invited for a ribbon-cutting ceremony. Subman will also make an appearance, and customers will be able to win prizes from the prize wheel.

“Opening the 100th Subway in Western New York is an honor for our family,” Mike Colletti says. “It is exciting to be a part of Subway’s great success. Our goal is for continued growth and to provide convenient locations for our valued customers.”

The region’s first Subway opened in 1988. By 1995, the number rose to 20 stores. In the past 15 years, 80 locations have been added. Area stores employ over 1,000 people across four counties. Moreover, Western New York Subways continue their community giving. Recently, Subway raised over $10,000 for the Muscular Dystrophy Association, and will donate sandwiches for The Ride for Roswell, Tour de Cure, and Walk for Summit.

“Despite an economic downturn in Western New York, we continue to grow and opening 100 stores is testament to the strength and profitability of the brand,” says Stephen Stewart, development agent for the territory. “With our strong core of franchisees, who work very hard on behalf of the brand, Subway continues to be a very attractive business choice for entrepreneurs who want ownership of their business. We have aggressive growth plans and expect to open 35 new stores by 2014.”