Duckpin bowling in downtown Macon awaits conditional use approval by Macon-Bibb P&Z

A new duckpin bowling alley, featuring smaller equipment than traditional tenpin bowling, is being proposed for 476 Second Street in downtown Macon.

MACON, Georgia (41NBC/WMGT) — A duckpin bowling alley could soon be in operation in downtown Macon.

A conditional use application for the business at 476 Second Street is listed on the December 11 Macon-Bibb Planning and Zoning draft hearing agenda. The applicant is David Thompson, representing MacTown Properties.

What is duckpin bowling?

According to bowlingforbeginners.com, duckpin bowling features smaller, lighter balls without finger holes and shorter, fatter pins compared to regular tenpin bowling’s larger balls with finger holes and taller, slender pins. Additionally, duckpin players get three rolls per frame versus two in tenpin bowling.

Renovation and partnership

While set to undergo both interior and exterior renovations, the proposed facility involves no new construction, according to the application. Instead, it focuses on repurposing the existing 4,200 square-foot structure.

It would serve as a food service partner to adjacent business Bearfoot Tavern, and the applicant’s goal is to share hours with Bearfoot. In addition to entertainment and food service, the applicant is also seeking to serve alcohol.

The project has already cleared a hurdle by receiving a Certificate of Appropriateness for Historic Districts from the Design Review Board in September for the addition of a new aluminum storefront.