The former Stow Kent Family Entertainment Center bowling alley at 3870 Fishcreek Road is getting a complete transformation into a modern entertainment venue featuring Vans Pizza restaurant and bar, according to plans approved by Stow City Council on September 25.
Developer DP 146 LLC will invest approximately $2 million to renovate the 20,000-square-foot building, which has sat largely unchanged for years despite continued operation as a bowling alley.
Complete Building Overhaul Planned
Architect David Pelligra told council the project will strip the building down to its basic framework, removing the existing roof and siding from what is essentially a pre-engineered metal building underneath.
The exterior will receive all new facade materials, lighting and an updated entryway. Inside, the space will be reconfigured to include a Vans Pizza restaurant and bar, a large arcade area, multiple bowling lanes, and private party rooms.
Construction is expected to begin after the first of the year, with demolition work starting in early 2026. Pelligra estimated the project will take approximately eight to nine months to complete, targeting a Halloween 2026 opening.
Jobs and Economic Impact
The entertainment center commits to creating approximately 89 jobs with $1.75 million in total payroll across the business operations, according to Planning Director Zach Cowen.
The job creation represents a significant employment boost for the area, with positions ranging from restaurant staff and bartenders to arcade attendants and party coordinators.
Outdoor Amenities Preserved and Upgraded
The development will retain and renovate the existing miniature golf course on the property, giving it a fresh look to match the building’s new aesthetic. The sand volleyball court will also remain as an outdoor recreation option.
Parking will be expanded to accommodate the increased traffic expected from the combined restaurant, arcade and bowling operations. The site will add 15 new trees and 93 shrubs as part of a comprehensive landscaping upgrade approved by the city arborist.
New parking spaces will measure 9 feet by 18 feet, requiring a variance from the standard 10-foot by 20-foot requirement. The site plan includes 108 parking spaces with an additional 34 landbanked spaces that can be installed if needed in the future.
City code allows developments to install 70% of required parking spaces as long as the remainder is landbanked. The project meets this requirement with 99 installed spaces, exceeding the 70% threshold.
Lighting and Safety Upgrades
The property will receive new 20-foot shielded light poles in the parking area, along with exterior wall lighting and decorative lighting. All lighting has been designed to not exceed one-half foot candle at property lines, meeting city code requirements.
Fire department and engineering comments must be addressed before building permits are issued, though Planning Director Cowen noted most comments are minor revisions that won’t affect the overall site plan.
Council Enthusiasm for Project
Council members expressed strong support for the transformation of the aging bowling alley.
Councilman Cyle Feldman praised the extensive renovation plans, saying “what a great property” and listing the features: “Private party areas, many bowling lanes, arcade area, Vans Pizza restaurant and bar. Then exterior, new lighting, entry, facade materials, outdoor seating, mini golf renovation, sand volleyball court. Thank you.”
Feldman told the developer to pass along thanks to Bill Diamond of Diamond Properties “for investing in Stow,” adding “I can’t vote yes fast enough.”
Councilwoman Kelly Coffey asked about the anticipated opening date. When told it would likely be around Halloween 2026, she responded positively to the timeline.
City Administrator thanked Planning Director Cowen publicly for his work on the project, stating “without Zach’s total leadership on this project, it wouldn’t have been there. He has really spearheaded this single-handedly.”
Long-Awaited Upgrade
The bowling alley building has been a fixture in Stow for decades, operating as a family entertainment center but showing its age. Multiple council members referenced the building’s wear and tear, with one noting he “spent a lot of time in there as a kid and as an adult” and was “aware of the wear and tear in the building to put it mildly.”
The complete renovation represents a significant investment in upgrading aging commercial property along the Fishcreek Road corridor. The project received unanimous approval from council, moving forward without opposition.
Diamond Properties has a track record of successful commercial developments in the region. The Vans Pizza entertainment center continues the company’s pattern of transforming underutilized properties into modern, multi-use destinations.
Related: For more coverage of Stow City Council’s September 25 meeting, including tax abatements for the Kent Road development and infrastructure projects, read our full council meeting report.
Related: Stow Planning Commission Approves Aldi Store, Marsh Road Rezoning, Chicken Coop Regulations
Related: Stow Police Report: Thefts, OVI Arrests and Protection Order Violation
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