The closing of Red Carpet Lanes on Clay Street nearly four years ago as the city’s only bowling alley marked the end of Arvis Dennis’ career in league action.

But he says he’s ready to resume his bowling if another alley opens in the city and, the proposed developer says, he still has plans to build such a facility off U.S. 61 North.

“I’ll probably start back,” said Dennis. “I really do miss it.”

Henry Patel, the owner of Vicksburg Entertainment Group, which announced plans in 2008 to build a new bowling alley, said the project “is still in the works.”

“We’re waiting on banks for financing,” he said.

Patel said the decline in the economy was the reason for stopping the project before it was started.

The bowling alley is proposed to be on Holt Collier Drive off U.S. 61 North, near Fox’s Pizza Den and Sol Azteca Mexican Restaurant. Patel said the purchase of the property is complete and the plans have been drawn up for a $4.5 million, 20-lane complex.

“We’re planning on taking another look at things after tax season,” he said, “then we can see where we stand.”

Dennis is eager to see another bowling alley in Vicksburg.

“I think it is a good place for people to gather and an excellent recreational tool,” Dennis said. “I always enjoyed it and the friendships you develop mean a lot.”

He said he will not drive out of town to bowl.

“When I was younger I drove to Jackson, but it is just a long run,” he said.

Red Carpet Lanes, which operated on Clay Street near Hope Street for 48 years, was closed after structural problems with the building and a lack of bowlers were cited. The nearest bowling venue is Indian Lanes in Clinton.