SYRACUSE, N.Y. — For the fifth time, Syracuse is hosting the U.S. Bowling Congress Open Championships.

But, this year is particularly special: the Oncenter has a brand new layout.

What once was a four-wall room with concrete floors, is now decked with carpet, new technology and 48 lanes.

Many bowlers who have participated in the competition before were happy to see the improvements, saying it made for better bowling. 

"The lane conditions are different. Of course, the lanes are different. Everything is new and improved, so it's better. It's better for the sport of bowling itself," said Eva Hannam, of Bowlmor Lanes in Ohio.

The championships bring about 40,000 bowlers to the area, and runs through early July.