BOISE - After nearly 60 years of strikes and spares, a Boise bowling mainstay will close its doors at the end of June.
20th Century Lanes announced on its Facebook page that its lease offer has been rejected by the property's owners, and that a new tenant would be moving into the building.
The family owned and operated bowling alley will go dark at the close of business on June 30. In its place - a roller skating rink and fun center operated by Treasure Valley Skate.
20th Century Lanes opened its original location in downtown Boise in the 1930s, but moved to its current spot near the corner of State Street and Collister Drive 57 years ago.
"It's a staple in this community," said Lucas Hohnstein, general manager and great-grandson of the original owner. "It's a bittersweet day and its a big loss not only for us but for the whole community.
Hohnstein added that they've received overwhelming support from their customers who will miss the good times at the bowling alley.
"It's a special place where the community can come together," he said. "And it's just really going to be missed."
As for the new tenants, Treasure Valley Skate said in a Facebook post that it hopes to keep alive the fun, family-friendly atmosphere 20th Century Lanes has been known for.
Currently, the only roller skating rink in the Treasure Valley is the Rollerdrome in Nampa, which has been in business since the 1940s. Treasure Valley Skate has yet to announce an opening date, but its website indicates that it will open this coming fall or winter.
20th Century Lanes is planning a big community celebration for its last day of business on June 30.
"We just want to tell all of Boise and the Treasure Valley we appreciate them over the last 60 years," Hohnstein said. "All good things come to an end, and we just want to say thank you."