Exciting Changes Coming to Beaufort’s Former Bowling Alley Site
Residents of Beaufort, get ready for some big changes! The old bowling alley on Ribaut Road, which has been sitting unused for a while now, is about to get a major facelift. That’s right! The Planning Commission has just given a thumbs-up to a new project that will transform this once-loved spot into a vibrant mixed-use community called Ribaut Station.
Goodbye Bowling, Hello Offices and Apartments
So, what’s the plan? Instead of a recreational space, the new development will include 28 commercial office spaces at the front, along Ribaut and Firehouse Lane. These offices will vary in size—some as small as 10 feet by 10 feet—making them perfect for start-ups or small businesses. The back of the property will house personal storage units, while the second floor of the former bowling alley will feature two brand-new apartments.
Reviving Old Memories
The nostalgic maple bowling lanes from the old bowling alley have not been forgotten, either! They will be refurbished to serve as flooring for one of the condominiums. The father-and-son team behind the project, Doc and Andy Burris, have named their company Gutterball LLC as a nod to the site’s past. “We want to put a smile on people’s faces while also giving a new lease on life to this property,” Doc Burris shared enthusiastically.
A Community-Centric Vision
Doc describes Ribaut Station as a new “lifestyle community”. “This isn’t just about storage units. We’re creating a real community center here,” he asserted. The office spaces will feature amenities like conference rooms, break rooms, and even a recreation center loaded with fun activities, including a golf simulator and other games. Imagine taking a break during work to unleash your inner race car driver or perfecting your trap shooting skills!
From Bowling Alley to Modern Facility
The history of the bowling alley dates back to the late 1960s and early 1970s. After it closed its doors back in August 2021, many people in the neighborhood have been eagerly awaiting its transformation. The building had initially been sold to a plumbing company, but due to city code restrictions, that plan didn’t work out. The father-and-son duo even explored the idea of opening a similar bowling alley and recreation center but ultimately decided on something different when they realized that “fun parks” don’t usually thrive in Beaufort.
Adapting to City Code
The development is set to kick off construction by November 1. It’s noteworthy to mention that city codes played a significant role in shaping the project. Things like creating a liner building—a structure that camouflages unsightly uses—were crucial. Thanks to these innovations, the project aligns beautifully with the city’s requirements. According to Curt Freese, the city’s community development director, the addition of those apartments and the liner buildings transformed the project into a viable mixed-use plan.
Plants and Parks for a Fresh Look
Greenery will also surround the facility with beautiful landscaping and trees that will breathe new life into the area. Burris emphasized that the architecture will give the buildings a sophisticated look— “they’ll resemble a bank,” he said with pride. It’s clear that the team is aiming to make Ribaut Station not just functional but attractive as well.
The Bigger Picture
The closure of the Community Bowling Center left Beaufort without a general public bowling option north of the Broad River. With other bowling centers situated on Marine Corps bases, accessibility has been limited for most locals. Additionally, Port Royal, just down the road, is also tightening its regulations on personal storage units due to resident complaints. So, it seems like now is the perfect moment for Beaufort to refresh and revamp this prime piece of real estate!
With so many exciting developments on the horizon, it looks like Ribaut Station will soon become a hub of activity and community spirit. Stay tuned, Beaufort—your neighborhood is about to get a little more lively!
