Bringing a unique venue to Fort Stockton that will attract tourism and retain residents is at the top of local attorney Albert Valadez’s to do list.

Valadez is working to transform the building that formerly housed the police department along Main Street. The establishment is slated to have a piano bar lounge on the first floor and room to expand the second floor into a dance floor with a DJ.

“I was just driving by one day and thought, wow, what a great location for another establishment,” Valadez said. “The building itself is appealing. It’s got a Roman style with the columns. I like the design and it’s a fortress of a building.”

Choosing the prime location for the Centennial Bar Lounge was vital for Valadez and downtown Fort Stockton seemed like the perfect place.

“At the time I decided to go forward with this, I knew that the Springhirst [Hotel] approached the city,” Valadez said. “I thought, well, what a compliment. People from out of town would stay at the Springhurst and find themselves in a location where they can just walk up the street and be entertained by some music, cocktails and walk back to their room.”

The former 83rd District Attorney is looking to fill the lounge with a similar ambiance to the Grey Mule Saloon, where it’s a quiet atmosphere so conversations can still be heard with music playing in the background. There will be a self-player piano programmed with at least 400 songs with the capability for talented musicians to play the instrument as well. DJ music is set to be played on the second floor on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays and live talent will be welcomed on some weekends to a dancing crowd.

A variety of mixed drinks, wine, cocktails, and beer will be served with the choice of various flavors. Valadez’s alcohol permit request was approved by city council back in June — a requirement since the business will be within 300 feet of a church, daycare and prayer location.

To maintain fire code and Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) compliance, Valadez had to move the opening date from late September towards the end of the year.

“I have a very capable contractor, but we found ourselves in a situation with a building that is over 100 years old,” Valadez said.