Buffalo, N.Y. (WBEN) – Demolition crews began work Tuesday at the former Voelker's Lanes in North Buffalo. The bowling alley at the corner of Elmwood Avenue and Amherst Street closed during the pandemic in 2021 and had since fallen into disrepair, becoming an eyesore.
The building was originally constructed in 1892 as a saloon and hotel, eventually evolving into a restaurant and bowling alley in the 1940s. It stood as a landmark in the community for over 130 years.
The site will be redeveloped into a five-story mixed-use building featuring approximately 230 rental units and ground-floor commercial space. Developer SAA|EVI, in collaboration with CJS Architects, plans to incorporate elements that pay homage to the former bowling alley, potentially including some bowling lanes in the commercial area.
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