Florala Mayor Terry Holley said this week that renovations are under way at the historic depot, which will become a restaurant and event venue.

The city-owned property most recently was managed by the local historical society, Holley said.

“We leased the building effective January 1, and they are working daily on renovations,” Holley said. “I think this is going to be a great thing for Florala.”

The facility previously housed a museum and community room. Holley said the restaurant will be in the front portion of the museum.

“They are working every day,” he said.

A formal announcement and grant opening are slated for the spring, he said.

Meanwhile, the city is moving forward with the purchase of a former service station on Hwy. 331 for economic development, after the council voted in favor of the move Monday night.

“We have someone interested in leasing it, and they will be responsible for renovating it,” Holley said.

It is one of several projects under way, he said.