Bowlers get temporary reprieve at Pinon Plaza

Bowlers at the Pinon Plaza Hotel Casino are getting a temporary reprieve.

Clark Russell, owner of the hotel-casino in Carson City, said a decision concerning the bowling center there is being delayed until December. The company is, however, sticking with the decision to find another use for the space.

"We've come to the conclusion that our bowling center does not generate sufficient revenue to justify its continued existence," Russell said. "We will continue to explore our options, and when we make a final decision, our bowling center customers will receive a minimum of 90 days notice."

Ed Bischoff, president of the Monday Morning Senior League, said he's pleased with the decision. He bowls five times a week.

"I wish they'd just leave things alone," he said. "My bowling days will be just about over if they close. I won't drive to Gardnerville, Reno or Fallon and I won't bowl at Carson Lanes."

He said other options have been proposed at the Pinon in the past, including a freestanding bowling alley where the RV park stands and a bowling lane reduction.

Catering to about 1,200 league bowlers, the 32-lane, 33,000-square-foot center occupies roughly one-third of the casino's entertainment and casino space.

The Pinon opened in 1995 with a casino, restaurant and bowling center. An RV park was added in 1997 and the 65-room hotel opened in June of 1998. Located at 2171 Highway 50 E., the casino will face the proposed interchange of the Carson City Highway 395 bypass.

Capital City Inc. also owns the Carson Station Hotel/Casino and the Station Grill Rotisserie on South Carson Street.

Contact Susie Vasquez at svasquez@nevadaappeal.com or 881-1212.