“Strikes and gutters, ups and downs,” observed noted philosopher Jeff “The Dude” Lebowski (in the 1998 cult film), crystallizing the vicissitudes of life into an immortal bowling metaphor.
The SouthSide Works has seen its share of strikes and gutters. The former site of a massive steel mill was transformed into an equally massive mixed-use town center with offices (American Eagle’s headquarters), retail and residential units. In recent years, though, it’s been mostly gutter balls since most of the original retail tenants (H&M, Joseph-Beth Booksellers, Claddagh Irish Pub) have disappeared.
However, new owners SomeraRoad have been trying everything to change SouthSide Works’ trajectory with a $137 million redevelopment — and it looks like they’ve rolled a strike.
The Box Office developement — a high-tech office project in the former SouthSide Works Cinema — will host Pins Mechanical Co., a 30,000-square-foot entertainment complex that pairs duckpin bowling, classic pinball and arcade games with cocktails and local beer.
“Pittsburgh has been on our radar for quite some time, and we are thrilled to bring exciting entertainment and alternative fun to the South Side,” says Troy Allen, founder of Pins Mechanical.
Columbus-based Rise Brands operates several Pins Mechanical locations, as well as Columbus’ famed 16-Bit Bar+Arcade, an early mover in the arcade-plus-beer revival.
Pins Mechanical’s Pittsburgh location will also feature bocce and other games on outdoor patio spaces, an event space, and even a carnival slide (a first for the Pins concept). It’s expected to create 125 jobs and open in the third quarter of 2022.
“Adding Pins Mechanical Co. to the SouthSide Works project adds a new level of entertainment to the area and will be a huge success as we continue to grow and develop this historic Pittsburgh neighborhood,” says Jonathon Reeser, director of acquisitions for SomeraRoad.
