TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — The Taiwan Center of Greater Los Angeles held a groundbreaking ceremony on Saturday for a new building for the organization.

Located in Rosemead, California, the Taiwan Center first opened in 1998. After 27 years serving as a social hub for the Taiwanese-American community in Southern California, the organization has raised enough funds to construct a new facility, per CNA.

The center is investing nearly US$20 million (NT$615 million) to build the new structure and develop the surrounding property, thanks to generous donations from residents and supporters of the Taiwanese community.

Local officials, members of the US Congress, and Taiwan’s representatives in Los Angeles gathered in front of the old Taiwan Center building for the ceremony. Taiwan Center Chairman Tian Yi-hong (田詒鴻) said he hopes the new facility will continue to serve the community and help preserve and pass on Taiwanese culture and identity to future generations.

US Representatives Ted Lieu (劉雲平) and Judy Chu (趙美心) attended the event to offer their congratulations and support. Taiwanese Legislator Wang Ting-yu (王定宇) and Overseas Community Affairs Council Chairwoman Hsu Chia-ching (徐佳青) were also present to represent Taiwan.

In his remarks, Lieu called for stronger US-Taiwan diplomatic and trade ties and voiced support for legislation to eliminate double taxation between the two countries.

Lieu said the Taiwan Center remains a vital institution for the Taiwanese-American community and will continue to promote and preserve Taiwanese culture for generations to come.