Bowling Alleys in New York State Allowed to Reopen

New York's bowling alleys are about to come back to life after a five-month shutdown because of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Governor Andrew Cuomo on Friday announced bowling will be permitted if certain regulations are followed. The establishments will be able to reopen on Monday.

Beckie Ripic, who acquired the former Laurel Bowl on Binghamton's West Side with her husband just over a year ago, is looking forward to getting back in business.

The bowling alley is now known as Ripics Carousel Lanes. Ripic said she expects the place will be open from 9 a.m. to midnight Monday.

Ripic was surprised by Cuomo's announcement. She had expected bowling might not be able to resume until September or October.

Ripic said bowlers had been calling in recent weeks "begging us to let them in."

The state's guidelines will permit bowling alleys to operate at 50 percent capacity with every other lane remaining closed. Rental equipment like bowling balls and shoes will need to be sanitized.

Face coverings and distancing rules also will be in place at bowling alleys to reduce the spread of the coronavirus.

The snack bar at Ripics Carousel Lanes on Laurel Avenue has been open for takeout while the bowling alley remained closed.( Photo: Bob Joseph/WNBF News)