Fort Worth has sued to have the Central Motel declared a common nuisance, but the East Lancaster Avenue property remains open while the court case proceeds, according to KERA.
The city says it is seeking court-ordered measures intended to reduce criminal activity and improve the motel’s management and security. The filing is a civil lawsuit, not a closure order or a final finding against the property.
What the city alleges
NBC 5 reports that the motel is at 5800 E. Lancaster Avenue and that the case invokes Chapter 125 of the Texas Civil Practice and Remedies Code. NBC 5 says the lawsuit alleges persistent activity involving prostitution, narcotics, weapons violations and a homicide investigation. Those claims are allegations and have not been adjudicated.
What could happen next
KERA reports that Fort Worth is seeking a receiver and a possible one-year closure. Neither remedy has been imposed.
The Fort Worth Star-Telegram reports that the civil suit was filed June 29 and that no hearing had been scheduled. The newspaper also reported that representatives of the property owner did not immediately respond to its request for comment.
For nearby residents, businesses and motel occupants, the present status is unchanged: the motel is operating, the allegations remain before a court, and any receivership or closure would require further action in the case.
