Frederick Lanes gets a new lease on life

After the American parent company announced it would be closing Frederick Lanes in May, a pair of avid bowlers stepped up to breathe new life into the long-time Kitchener recreation spot.

Mason Tikl and Kassandra Ahlin were completely caught off-guard when an announcement over the PA at the bowling alley said the lanes would be closing in a week.

Tikl and Ahlin were members of the Monday Social League and regulars at Frederick Lanes. The couple were guests on The Mike Farwell Show, where Tikl explained that he was hoping to delay the closure by placing a bid to purchase the bowling alley equipment.

“I threw in an offer. I just wanted to slow it down because they were going to rip everything out real quick. And they actually got back to us within an hour or two; somebody from Virginia called us.”

Tikl explained the bid was accepted and conversations with the landlord were extremely positive. So much so that the landlord is thrilled to have the bowling alley back, according to Tikl.

Ahlin added that there is plenty of work to do, but they’re making progress.

“Our goal is to get it reopened as soon as possible, whenever that is feasible. There is still a lot for us to do, but with the goal being mid-July, knowing that could be pushed back a week or two weeks or so.”

Tikl mentioned the roof and the HVAC system were in rough shape, but work is already underway to get that sorted out.

Once patrons return, they’ll notice a few changes. Tikl and Ahlin said they plan to add a few personal touches to the space, like a new logo. Tikl also mentioned that the canteen will have a revamped menu that will feature classic bowling alley fare but also a diverse plant-based menu — Tikl and Ahlin are both vegetarians. Local breweries will also be on tap.

Tikl said they want to give the place a real local feel.

“It’ll be community-oriented. Kitchener-focused. We’re here with the people who bowl at the facility. We’ll be able to improve things pretty quickly. We’re just really excited.”

The revamped Frederick Lanes is expected to open mid to late July.

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