Plans For Indoor Firing Range, Gun Shop Move Forward

Plans for an indoor firing range and gun shop at a 6th Street business took a step forward Tuesday.

The Oak Creek Common Council approved a zoning change that would allow Black Diamond Group to open such an operation at its facility, 6925 S. 6th St.

The company is planning a state-of the art shooting range with an emphasis on safety, education and enjoyment of shooting sports, owner Deborah Teglia said.

"This is something that is needed in our metropolitan area. There's a lack of available, clean and safe training facilities," she said.

In addition to the firing range, Black Diamond also plans to sell firearms and ammunition, as well as accessories such as clothing and ear and eye protection.

Black Diamond, which specializes in pavement and surfacing services, would house the new services in 17,000 square feet of empty space at its 6th Street building.

Specific plans still need Common Council approval, but city officials and aldermen say they are impressed with Black Diamond's proposal, particularly its safety measures.

"It's going to be a place where people are going to want to go to and relax and enjoy the training, and shoot in a quality place," said Alderman Steven Kurkowski, a retired law enforcement officer.

The zoning change allows indoor firing ranges, gun and accessory sales and firearms training in manufacturing districts, such as the Northbranch Industrial Park, where Black Diamond is located.

They would not be allowed within 1,000 feet of a residential district and would still need the Common Council to approve a conditional-use permit.

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