Local brothers buy Richland Lanes, plan to turn it into a family entertainment center

JOHNSTOWN, Pa (WJAC) — Richland Lanes has been up for sale for well over a year, and recently, it was finally sold.

Richland Lanes opened its doors in 1961 but this year, it's turning into something new.

Chris Houge won first place at a bowl-a-thon at Richland Lanes when he was a teenager in the 90s.

Last week, Houge and his brother bought the place, and they're remodeling it into a space that is "right up their ally."

"Our plan is to renovate and remodel it. It's going to be a bowling-anchored family entertainment center. So, we are still going to have bowling, but we're going to upgrade that experience," Houge said.

That upgrade will include laser tag, escape rooms, an arcade, virtual reality, and even a bar and grille.

"Our vision is to create something that Johnstown’s never had. Even the surrounding counties have never had a complete family entertainment center that's going to have all of the new attractions that we have. You really would have to go to Pittsburgh or Philadelphia for an establishment like this."

Despite the changes, Houge said those who were in a league at Richland Lanes shouldn't worry, as they will be able to continue their traditions once they open.

Chris and his brother are the guys behind "Houge's fun factory,” which owns the bounce house in the Johnstown Galleria, and brings props to after-proms and other events.

The brothers say this is their biggest project so far.

"I’ve been an avid bowler; my brother and I are the partners that will be running the place daily. We've bowled our entire lives, and our parents have bowled."

Chris says to check out "814 lanes and games.com,” and to like their Facebook page for construction updates.

Chris adds that 814 lanes and games is expected to open later this year.

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