March 18, 2025

Decatur City Commission Reveals $7 Million Renovation Plans for Decatur Square

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News Summary

The Decatur City Commission has approved a $7 million renovation plan for Decatur Square, aiming to enhance urban development and community accessibility. Funded by local sales tax, the project will introduce a performing arts stage, children’s play area, and plaza improvements. The first phase of construction is set to start in six weeks, with completion aimed for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The initiative seeks community engagement and beautification of public spaces.

Decatur City Commission Unveils Ambitious $7 Million Renovation Plans for Decatur Square

The Decatur City Commission has officially set a bold vision into motion with its recent approval of a $7 million agreement with JHC Corporation for the much-anticipated renovation of Decatur Square. The master plan, which boasts a budget of approximately $8.5 million, promises significant updates aimed at revitalizing the heart of the city, making it more accessible, engaging, and equipped for community events.

Funding the Vision

Funding for this exciting project will come from the special purpose local option sales tax (SPLOST), demonstrating the city’s strategic approach to urban development. In conjunction with the renovation, plans are in place to issue general obligation bonds to borrow up to $10 million against future SPLOST proceeds – a financial strategy that is expected to be discussed further at the upcoming commission meeting in April.

What’s Ahead: Phase One Details

The renovation will occur in phases, with the first phase set to feature a plethora of enhancements. Among the most notable additions will be:

A new performing arts stage, complete with a green room for artists
A contemporary children’s play area designed for family-friendly fun
Significant plaza improvements, including aesthetic upgrades and functional enhancements
Expansion of Decatur Square into North McDonough Street, which aims to create a seamless pedestrian experience

Construction is estimated to kick off in just six weeks, with an ambitious timeline that projects a ten-month completion target. The goal is to have the renovations completed in time for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which will take place in Atlanta and attract visitors from around the globe, positioning Decatur as a pivotal locale for festivities.

A Focus on Community Engagement

The city’s downtown master plan, which guides this renovation effort, sets clear objectives for creating inviting open spaces, parks, and plazas that serve the community’s needs. Consultants MKSK, tasked with facilitating community input, emphasized the widespread support for a more accommodating and flexible Decatur Square that could better host daily activities and special events.

Notable Features of the Renovation

This renovation aims not only for aesthetic improvements but also for functional enhancements that can attract more visitors. Some key project elements include:

Upgrades to the MARTA plaza, featuring improved landscaping, hardscaping, and site furnishings
New restroom facilities to better serve patrons
The relocation of the Celebration sculpture from the MARTA plaza to North McDonough Street, aimed at enhancing visual presence
Demolition of the current gazebo to make way for modern facilities and features

Other Commission Highlights

In addition to the Decatur Square renovations, the City Commission approved a $150,000 agreement with Ascension Program Management for additional construction oversight, ensuring that the project remains on track and within budget. Also on the commission’s agenda was the approval of an alcoholic beverage license for the new owners of 9292 Korean BBQ, located at 225 E. Trinity Place, formerly D92 BBQ.

The commission also renewed City Manager Andrea Arnold’s employment agreement, extending her contract through 2027, with an updated salary of $229,500. Furthermore, a contract valued at approximately $90,300 was approved with the National Civic League for a much-needed city charter review.

As the renovation plans unfold, the Executive Director of the Decatur Land Trust, Vickeign Mitchell, announced that all cottages in the Oak Cottage Court development have now been sold, underscoring the ongoing demand for residential development in the area.

Looking Ahead

With plans for various events and activities surrounding the upcoming FIFA World Cup, the city is poised to make Decatur Square a prime destination for both locals and visitors alike. As community engagement remains a focal point, residents and city officials eagerly await the transformation of this critical urban space.