VIDALIA, La. &045; Vidalia might be getting a Wal-Mart soon, but that’s not the only change going on in the town’s commerce.

Vidalia Mayor Hyram Copeland said the town has been in talks with a West Monroe businessman to build a new motel in the city slated to open next summer.

&uot;We’ve had some interest from some people in opening another motel in Vidalia,&uot; Copeland said.

Fred Bayles, whose wife owns the Concordia Square Shopping Center, said his company is planning to build a Best Western motel on property adjoining the center.

&uot;The plans are done. We’re just waiting for approval from the fire marshal and all that,&uot; Bayles said.

The 62-room motel should start construction in September or October once a construction loan has been finalized. Construction should be complete by next summer, Bayles said.

&uot;We’re hoping to open about the time they open the convention center next year,&uot; Bayles said.

Bayles said he looked at building a motel in Vidalia at least twice &045; including plans for a 40-room motel about five years ago &045; in the last few years but decided against it.

&uot;We came to the conclusion at that time that it wasn’t the thing to do,&uot; Bayles said.

But with the imminent construction of the Vidalia Gateway and Convention Center, Bayles said he felt there was a need for this type of business.

The city has advertised for bids on the Gateway Center and plans to accept one Aug. 9. Construction would then begin within 30 days.