The economy won’t “spare” a local bowling alley.
After 70 years, Mercury Lanes in Dearborn will permanently close. The bowling alley is sparking fond memories from those who’ve bowled there.
“It’s pretty emotional. It’s hard,” said Suzy Nile, one of the owners. “My brother and husband they are ready to retire, so we decided it was time to go out.”
Two weeks ago, a man came in with an offer to turn the building into a warehouse.
The family owns four other bowling alleys, but have seen a decline in revenue at Mercury Lanes for the past 10 years, with less people interested in bowling leagues.
“The bigger centers are turning into entertainment centers, family fun with video games, with laser tag, that type of thing. We are too small to convert to something like that.”
Nile’s grandfather opened the business back in 1948. He named it after the Ford Mercury car.
Over the years, Suzy and her family called this place a second home.
“They literally grew up here because we brought them in to work with us when they were newborns.”
When they made the announcement of Facebook, Suzy was overwhelmed at the community’s support.
“Shows the loyalty of our customers.”
The doors close on June 27.
