The Ponderosa Lounge & Grill, a country bar that has operated at the Jubitz Travel Center in North Portland since 1969, on Thursday kicked off a three-day celebration of recent upgrades. R&H Construction has completed a major renovation of the space, which has gained better sound and sight lines, a larger stage and a new dance floor and bar.

Mildren Design Group was the architect for the project, which began in May with demolition and structural improvements. A large wooden truss was replaced with a steel beam to increase head room, portions of the slab were demolished and replaced, and a gaming room was removed to create an elevated VIP lounge area. The entire space has been opened so there are sight lines to the stage from throughout the bar.

The stage was relocated to a corner and tripled in size, and a new green room for performers was added. Along with new lighting and sound systems, the space has been outfitted with a new DJ booth, a sound desk and a video display wall. The space also features a new white oak dance floor, a live-edge burl wood bar top milled from one large piece of maple, and repurposed wood paneling.

Capacity at the Ponderosa has increased by about 100 people to 548. The bar will now host around six touring acts per month, along with live local music shows four nights a week. The grand reopening celebration will continue through Saturday.

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