BUFFALO, N.Y. — If you ask board members or the president of The Colored Musicians Club about the current renovation happening, you will first see a smile and then hear excitement.
Board president Danny Williams is pleased with the access for those in wheelchairs and the additional 2,000 feet to the original building to handle all the new programming.
Kenneth Peterson, CEO of the Colored Musicians Club walked through the project underway with 2 On Your Side's Claudine Ewing and Pete Gallivan.
He pointed out where "the traditional space of the museum prior to that, it was the home of the Local 533 for years, and now with the help of the city and Empire State Development, we are investing $2 million for a complete renovation of the museum and all new exhibits."
Peterson said it is important to refresh exhibits.
"I think that they're more interactive so there are exhibits that help children and older learners understand how music is made and understanding the history of jazz," Peterson said.
He said it will be more interactive.
"The museum I think will have a greater impact externally, so we'll have programs that exist in schools, and we will continue to go to senior centers and engage with people where they are," Peterson said.
Upstairs is where you will find a bar and seating for 100 people.
Archived material will line some of the walls to help tell the story of the club's past, present and look ahead to the future.
He hopes the building will be ready for a soft open by the end of 2024.