Handicap accessibility and the ability to host larger events are the driving forces behind planned additions at the American Legion Hall in Cedar Bluffs.
The Sons of the American Legion are spearheading the project, which will add 1,400 square feet to the existing American Legion Post 158 building. Construction is expected to begin in the spring.
"We're basically going to double our size," said Jason Thiesen, commander of the Cedar Bluffs Sons of the American Legion.
Thiesen said planning for the addition has been in the works for the past two years. The American Legion post gave its approval to the project in December.
Mailers have been sent out seeking donations to help with what are projected to be just more than $100,000 in costs.
"We're hoping that donations are going to take care of a pretty good chunk of that," Thiesen said.
The 35-by-40-foot addition will hook onto the south end of the existing building, which was built in the late 1940s.
The new addition will be one level and will have an elevator platform that will allow wheelchair access to the old building, including the bar area.
"People have been pushing for it," Thiesen said. "It seems like handicap accessibility is becoming more of an issue all the time."
While Thiesen said it is still trying to be determined how to best use the new building, he hopes the extra space will allow the American Legion to host larger functions, including parties and get-togethers.
Harvey Callahan, the Legion's adjutant, said the Sons of the American Legion already have done other projects at the post, including a remodel of the bar, installing new flooring and a new roof and painting.
"They've just done a lot of work and they've never asked for any compensation or anything," Callahan said.
Alden Thiesen, another member of the post, said he also appreciates the work Jason Thiesen and other Sons of the American Legion have done over the years.
"They're doing a terrific job," Alden Thiesen said. "We wouldn't have much of a Legion here if it wasn't for the Sons of the American Legion."
While Callahan said Legion members will benefit from the renovations, he also believes Cedar Bluffs will be able to be proud of the new building.
"It keeps the town alive and gives them a place to gather," Callahan said. "It's good for the American Legion and the community, too."
