ELLSWORTH, Maine (WABI) — The Eastward Plaza on Route 1 in Ellsworth has a new owner.
The building, which houses a bowling alley and three other small businesses, had been somewhat neglected in the past.
Ryan Lounder, 22, bought the property in mid-September and has a vision beyond a maintenance backlog.
“I’m excited for this place to finally get the love and attention it needs.”
The Eastward Plaza building began as a bowling alley in the 1970s with additions to accommodate other businesses along the way.
“I think that many things can be done here, but they have not been maximized for a long time. I think a lot of good things can be done,” he said.
“What he’s going to do with the place is really going to take it to where it needs to be because this place has so much potential, but I feel like it really just needs someone to see it, and I feel like it’s him, so I’m pretty excited,” Autumn said. Mowery, owner of D’Amandas Bowling Alley.
Lounder, who also has 207 collectibles on the plaza, hopes to turn the entire property into a community center and family-friendly destination.
“In the front yard, where all the shed buildings are, I want them moved to the side so I can put a bunch of bounce houses out there as well. I’m looking into trying to start food trucks, have picnic tables out there . I’ve got a lot of open grass next to here that I’m looking at putting in like a rock wall and a batting cage, but those are things that are a little further away,” Louder said.
“Everything he’s going to do with the place is going to be great for business and for this whole plaza to reach its full potential and have a place where families can enjoy something here in Ellsworth,” Mowery said.
Lounder says repaving the 70,000-square-foot parking lot will be a priority before he can take the plaza where he wants to take it. It’s just one of the boxes the 22-year-old entrepreneur aims to check.
“It wasn’t like I just woke up one day and decided to buy it. It was something I thought about, the idea of what could be done around here. I am very excited,” he said.
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