Following a period of uncertainty, Pioneer Lanes in Platteville has re-opened and officials are optimistic about its future. The facility, located on Business 151, is currently owned by Mound City Bank, following a deed in lieu of foreclosure on July 8. Bank officials have hired W Lanes Management, LLC of Weston to handle the day to day operations of the bowling and banquet facility.
The responsibility of the management team will be to increase business at Pioneer Lanes and make it attractive to potential buyers.
As for changes on the horizon, John Meyers with W Lanes Management, said they will be performing some roof work on the building, improving some equipment and possibly doing some improvements to the parking lot.
Meyers met with bowling league secretaries recently and there will be no interruption to fall leagues. The facility will also be offering family, youth and university specials in the coming months. The details are being discussed.
The facility is now open 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. seven days a week. Jody Hinkins is serving as interim general manager at the facility. Frank "Biff" Borowitz will also be managing the facility.
As for any changes the casual bowler may notice when visiting Pioneer Lanes now will be an increase in the level of service and cleanliness, noted Meyers. "We are in the service industry," he said. "We want this to be a fun environment."
In addition to bowling, the facility also includes a banquet hall, which seats about 220 people.
According to Joe Witmer with Mound City Bank, they are committed to keeping the facility open and available for use by the community. He has received some initial inquiries about the facility; however, they are still in the early stages of the transition process.