Restoration Company to Move into Former Bounce Fun Center
The former Bounce Fun Center at 18 Knollwood Drive is about to take on a new life. On Aug. 8, members of the Planning and Zoning Commission (PZC) voted to approve an application to allow a restoration company to move into the space.
Jason Walker, president of Paul Davis Restoration of New Haven, attended the Aug. 8 meeting with his application to convert the former bounce house center into a warehouse and office space. No members of the public spoke either for or against the proposal, and the public hearing was closed. PZC unanimously approved the application.
In the application, Walker said that he is in contract to purchase the property at 18 Knollwood Drive and move Paul Davis Restoration of New Haven into the premises. The business is currently located in Branford.
“Paul Davis is a restoration company that helps restore residential and commercial property damage due to water damage, fire, mold, and weather. We provide the initial emergency services in addition to the general contracting work to restore property back to pre-loss condition,” the statement of use said.
Walker told the Commission he anticipated the business being open Monday through Friday with some weekend work since part of the business deals with emergency work. Walker said that the business has 26 employees and 14 commercial vehicles.
Per the statement of use, Walker said that minimal work will be required for the property. There will be renovations to create about 4,000 square feet of office space as well as HVAC window and lighting upgrades.
The property’s previous occupant,Bounce Fun Center, was a popular destination for families with young children. The center housed themed house castles, an arcade, slides, and a party area making it a popular birthday party destination. Last August, however, the center announced it would be closing its indoor operations “temporarily.” A message on its website states that the indoor section of the park is closed but outdoor rentals are still available.
Kathy King, the zoning enforcement officer for the town, told the Harbor News she was not sure exactly when the fun center closed permanently since the town isn’t notified of that information.