Lebowski Bowl renovates building

Those walking into Lebowski Bowl in Washington might have noticed a bit change as a new dining area and performance stage now highlight an area of the business after a recent remodel.

'Our decision to remodel a portion of the bowling alley came about due to declining bowling numbers,” says owner Robert Gaal. 'When we purchased the facility in the fall of 2013, we had approximately 150 adult league bowlers. Starting the fall of 2019, we had approximately 50.”

Gaal says he chose to keep four lanes, which allows the high school team a place to practice, and continues to allow the local bowling leagues to continue playing, but that the new area made way for all new entertainment to come to the building.

'The space allow us to promote live entertainment, receptions and meeting space,” Gaal says,” As well as more seating for our growing food and beverage business.”

Lebowski Bowl has hosted a surprise 60th birthday party, a wedding reception, two class reunions and numerous other events that Gaal says would not have been possible to host without the remodel.

Lebowski Bowl's remodel began in late February of 2018 and was completed by April 2019. The alley utilized local businesses and contractors including Bretty Leyden of LW construction, Buddy Brown of BHI construction, Ed Calhoun of CW Flooring, Bruty's Carpet Corner, Marshall's Furniture and Flooring and Washington Lumber.

'We are proud to say 95 percent of this project was completed wih materials and labor from Washington Iowa businesses,” Gaal says. 'I also need to give a huge shout out to Steve Donnelly, our local building inspector (who) made himself available before work, during his lunch hour and after work to keep us moving forward.”

Gaal says he is exciting for the upcoming fall, as Leboski Bowl already has some music acts scheduled and ready to go, as well as a karaoke service. The alley is aso in talks with national touring comedians for late fall and winter shows, as well as a local playwright.

Gaal says the team at Lebowski Bowl is excited about the various opportunities the remodel offers, while still giving the community access to bowling. Open bowling is currently available but by reservation only.