Decatur City Square Set for Overhaul Ahead of FIFA World Cup

Construction workers and equipment in Decatur City Square under renovation.

News Summary

The Decatur City Commission has approved a $9 million renovation for Decatur Square to create a vibrant hub before the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Key features include a new performing arts stage, children’s play area, and improved facilities. Construction will start in two months and last approximately 10 months, with the project’s total timeline spanning around 16 months. This ambitious renovation aims to enhance community engagement and aligns with a broader downtown master plan.

Decatur City Square Set for Major Overhaul Ahead of FIFA World Cup

In an exciting development for local residents and visitors alike, the Decatur City Commission has granted the green light for an ambitious renovation of Decatur Square. This monumental project, which is estimated to cost nearly $9 million (specifically $8.5 million), aims to transform the square into a vibrant hub of activity just in time for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Key Features of the Renovation

The renovation is meticulously designed to enhance the overall experience within the square. Among the major improvements planned are:

A new performing arts stage that will come complete with a green room, designed to host a variety of performances.
A new children’s play area that promises to be a delightful addition for families.
Extension of amenities onto North McDonough Street, broadening access and usability of the square.
New restroom facilities ensuring convenience for all visitors.

As part of the renovation, the current gazebo will be demolished, and the well-known “Celebration!” sculpture will be relocated from its current spot at the MARTA plaza to a new location on North McDonough Street.

Funding the Renovation

The city has selected JHC Corporation to handle the construction, with a contract valued at more than $7 million. Additionally, Ascension Program Management will be compensated $150,000 for providing crucial staff support and oversight during the construction phase. Funding for this expansive project will be sourced from Special Purpose Local Option Sales Tax (SPLOST) dollars, ensuring continuity of community investment.

Timeline and Expectations

Construction is anticipated to commence in approximately two months and is projected to last about 10 months, with estimates for the overall project duration—from demolition to grand reopening—suggesting it could take around 16 months. To ensure that everything runs smoothly, there will be biweekly meetings between the city and contractors throughout the construction process.

Community Engagement and Broader Vision

The renovation of Decatur Square forms a pivotal part of a broader downtown master plan, which aims to enhance open spaces and community events. The newly designed square will foster a more comfortable environment for daily activities and special gatherings, integrating seamlessly with the city’s push for improved green infrastructure and community engagement.

Prior to discussions on the renovation, the city held public hearings about a homestead exemption, further indicating the city’s commitment to inclusive community involvement. During the recent meetings—including regular and work sessions on March 17—City Commission members discussed budgetary considerations and construction contracts, ensuring all aspects are transparent and thoughtfully planned.

Looking Ahead

The vision for the square includes positioning the new stage closer to the MARTA station on Swanton Way, featuring a butterfly roof that will not only be structurally sound but visually appealing. The expectation is that this revitalized space will not only serve as a venue for FIFA World Cup-related events, but will also regularly host local activities year-round.

As Decatur moves forward into this new chapter, all eyes will be on the square, eagerly anticipating the transformation that promises to be a cornerstone of the community for years to come.