Brochin Opposing Liquor License at Towson Lanes

State Senator Jim Brochin is siding with the Campus Hills community in it's fight against AMF Towson Lanes obtaining a liquor license.

Campus Hills residents have complained about disruptive activity occuring outside the bowling alley, and are petitioning against the license. An attorney representing Towson Lanes said management has found no evidence supporting the residents' accusations.

Towson Lanes is scheduled for a liquor board hearing on Monday.

Brochin, who represents Towson, sent the following letter to liquor board Chairman Charles Klein on Friday.

Dear Chairman Klein,

I am writing today to express my opposition to the liquor license application for AMF Towson Lanes located at 701 Southwick Dr in Towson.

AMF is located in the heart of a residential neighborhood, Campus Hills, which is a quiet community in Towson made up of 369 post-war era homes with residents of all ages, from very young to senior citizens. AMF is bordered on both sides by residential homes, a community pool behind it, and Cromwell Valley Elementary School nearby. It is my understanding that a bowling area in a residential area or in close proximity to facilities used primarily by children and families has never received a liquor license of this kind.

Additionally, AMF management did not reach out community input prior to the original hearing date, September 10. Moreover, it is my understanding that AMF management was not aware of prior police-related incidents at the location. According to the community resident, neighbors have repeatedly called the bowling alley manager to report issues of crime and violence, and in most cases, their concerns were never addressed.

As the State Senator for this area, I value AMF Towson and its contributions to the community, from jobs to entertainment. However, given the concerns mentioned above, I do not believe granting AMF Towson Lanes a liquor license is in the best interest of the community.