(Radio Iowa) – A small-town bar in northwest Iowa that’s scheduled for demolition is getting a second lease on life, thanks to its cult following and far-reaching popularity as a live music venue. This week, the Pomeroy City Council confirmed Byron’s Bar will close at the end of July due to structural damage. Owner Byron Stuart says there are now plans to construct a new building about a block away from the current location on Main Street.

“I want to keep live music going,” Stuart says. “It soothes my soul and it soothes a lot of other people’s souls. In order to keep it going. I’m going to need some more money.” A GoFundMe fundraiser that started earlier this year has brought in more than 76-thousand dollars for the project that’s expected to cost 200-thousand. Organizers say mailed-in donations take the total received over 105-thousand dollars.

“I’m overwhelmed with the love being thrown at me,” he says. “I certainly appreciate it. I didn’t know I affected that many people’s lives.” Byron’s was built in the 1890s and attracts musical acts from all over the country. The new location is expected to be ready to rock-n-roll by this fall. Until then, Byron’s will host events at the Pomeroy Community Center.

https://www.gofundme.com/f/build-byrons-in-pomeroy/