A historic pillar of the Montclair community is set for a “transformative” rebirth. DIGroup Architecture (DIG) and James L. Evers, RA (JLE) have unveiled designs for the new Montclair Veterans Service Center, a multi-story redevelopment of the American Legion Crawford Crews Post 251.
The project aims to tackle a sobering statistic: on any given night, more than 1,100 veterans experience homelessness across New Jersey. By replacing the deteriorating structure at 210 Bloomfield Ave., the new center will transition from a traditional social post into a modern sanctuary providing permanent supportive housing for at-risk and aging veterans.
Founded in 1935, Post 251 carries a storied history. It was named in honor of Crawford Crews, one of four Black Montclair residents—alongside Pvt. Alonzo Mills, Corp. Benjamin E. Smith, and Corp. Austin Barnes—who served with the legendary Harlem Hellfighters during World War I. Over the decades, the post has served as a meeting place for Tuskegee Airmen and provided emergency shelter for the neighborhood.
To honor this heritage, DIG’s design will incorporate original architectural elements from the site’s 1887 Italian Renaissance-style roots (formerly the Washington Hose Company No. 3), including its signature stonework and commemorative plaques.
“Through DIG’s Architecture for Change lens, we are evolving the traditional American Legion model into a forward-thinking sanctuary,” Principal Scott Hoffman said. “We are creating a holistic environment that honors the service of our veterans while providing the modern tools they need for a successful post-service transition.”
The new facility is designed to be energy-efficient and fully accessible, serving as a model for design-driven social impact. Key features include:
- 11 Supportive Housing Units: Dignified, permanent living spaces for veterans.
- Resource Hub: Dedicated areas for community engagement, education, and veteran-specific services.
- Strategic Partnerships: Collaboration with Soldier On for supportive services and guidance from Monarch Housing Associates.
The project has already cleared significant hurdles, including historic preservation reviews and state-level regulatory approvals. Pre-development funding has been secured from the State of New Jersey, with additional support from the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs.
Project Liaison James Evers noted that the team is currently advancing zoning approvals and housing voucher allocations. Once complete, the center will fulfill the Post’s long-standing motto, “Where Service Still Lives,” by providing a safe haven for those who served the nation.
