DOWNS – Accessibility, functionality and curb appeal have all been improved, and seating for more people is now available for the many public events held at Memorial Hall in Downs.

A new balcony railing system that utilizes horizontal wires that provide safety but don’t obstruct view of the stage has been installed, allowing the 250-seat balcony to be utilized again. The balcony had been closed to the public because previously only a single bar at a 22-inch height had served as a railing, which city officials had determined to be unsafe.

In addition, a new lighting and video system have been installed, as well as acoustic panels to improve sound quality, new flooring, a lift to allow access to the stage, outside landscaping, south side parking improvements and an entrance awning.

The building, which opened on Feb. 15, 1923, was built as a World War I memorial.