Union Rack and Roll to close May 8 for summer renovations

WEST LAFAYETTE, Ind. – Union Rack and Roll is scheduled to close Monday (May 8) for renovations. Located in the basement of the Purdue Memorial Union and considered a hidden gem on the West Lafayette campus, it has offered bowling opportunities to the Purdue community since 1936.

Last summer, the facility’s billiards and arcade area underwent renovations, which included the addition of Boiler Game Mine and an assembly room for conferences, meetings and parties. This summer’s renovations will close just the bowling lanes and will refresh and update the bowling concourse area. Improvements will include:

• New pinspotter equipment for increased reliability and a more fluid bowling experience.
• A new bowling game technology called HyperBowling.
• Functionally diverse furniture for academic and social environments.
• Contemporary design and a fresh look throughout.
• Renovations to lighting, fixtures, the ceiling and flooring.

Luke Versprille, director of operations and events for the Purdue Memorial Union, says the renovated space will expand the social and communal spirit of the Union into the basement’s recreational areas.

Boiler Game Mine and the billiards tables inside Union Rack and Roll will remain open and available for use from noon to 8 p.m. daily. Equipment for billiards, usually rented at Union Rack and Roll, will be available to rent at Boiler Game Mine during construction. To make reservations for billiards or Boiler Game Mine, visit the Purdue Memorial Union website.

“I’m excited for the transformation the renovations are going to bring to Union Rack and Roll, especially the new string pinspotters and the addition of HyperBowling,” said Travis Huston, manager of Union Rack and Roll and Boiler Game Mine. “HyperBowling combines the fun of bowling with video games, and it’s action-packed, bumper bowling fun for everyone.”

Union Rack and Roll’s bowling area is set to reopen Aug. 20. Reservations for bowling or bowling parties can be made through May 8 and after Aug. 20. For current and future hours for Union Rack and Roll and Boiler Game Mine, visit the Purdue Memorial Union website.

For more information about the renovations or reservations, contact Union Rack and Roll at unionrc@purdue.edu or 765-494-8990.