COLUMBUS, Ohio (AP) — The Columbus Museum of Art in central Ohio expects to break ground this spring for a $37.6 million expansion project.

Museum officials presented renderings of the project to the Columbus Downtown Commission this week.

WBNS-TV in Columbus (http://bit.ly/SxXYWb ) reports the expansion will add 50,000 square feet to the building's east end and include renovation of one wing and a lobby.

The addition will be used for special events. It also will feature a full-service restaurant and more space for the museum's permanent collection.

Museum officials say that money raised through a capital endowment program will pay for the expansion.

The project is the third and final phase of a multi-year expansion plan.