DIGroup Architecture and James L. Evers are collaborating to design the new Montclair Veterans Service Center, which will transform the American Legion Crawford Crews Post 251 at 210 Bloomfield Ave. and provide supportive housing and vital resources for homeless, at-risk and aging veterans.
More than 1,100 veterans are homeless in New Jersey and the center is part of a statewide effort led by the American Legion to reduce veteran homelessness by rebuilding posts and integrating permanent supportive housing into their mission
Plans call for a multi-story facility that honors the legacy of Post 251 while creating modern, dignified housing for veterans, including 11 units along with space dedicated to community engagement, education and veteran services.
Crawford Crews Post 251 was originally founded in 1935 and is named after Crawford Crews, who served as one of the Harlem Hellfighters during World War I. The place has regularly hosted community events and served as a meeting place for Black veterans, including Tuskegee Airmen.
DiGroup siad it plans to preserve the building's storied past by incorporating original elements, such as its signature stonework, into the new design. The building’s legacy will be further honored through detailed documentation and a commemorative plaque on its exterior.
The project team has already secured key approvals and partnerships, including historic preservation review, state-level regulatory approvals, supportive services collaboration with Soldier On, guidance from Monarch Housing Associates, support from the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs and pre-development funding from the State of New Jersey.
Project leaders are currently advancing zoning approvals and housing voucher allocations to begin construction.
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