News

Decatur City Council Unanimously Approves Option B for Modaus Road Sportsplex

The Decatur City Council unanimously approved Option B for the Modaus Road Sportsplex project on Monday, December 15, 2025, allowing the City to move forward with a redesigned plan that balances cost, functionality, and long-term community use.

The decision follows months of review, collaboration, and evaluation following the pause in construction in September of 2024. At that time, city leaders paused to reassess costs and completion strategies after it became clear the original $18 million budget did not reflect current construction realities. To date, approximately $15 million has been invested in site preparation, utilities, and core construction at the Modaus Road site.

Over the past three months, the City has worked closely with its construction manager, architect, finance team, and Parks and Recreation Department to identify viable paths forward. That work resulted in two completion options being presented to the City Council, with Option B emerging as the most responsible. Funding for the completion of the project will be provided by the 2025 GO Warrants fund.

Option B is a significantly modified design that preserves the Sportsplex’s core purpose while reducing costs through design changes and scaled-back amenities. The plan includes:

● Eight softball and baseball fields
● Two multi-purpose fields
● One main restroom and concession facility
● Reduced concrete footprint
● Modified shade structures
● Consolidated batting cages
● Removal of decorative steel fencing
● An optional $650,000 add-alternate for an additional restroom facility

The base cost of Option B is $15.1 million, offering a practical way to complete the project while maintaining quality and usability for residents and visitors.

Mayor Kent Lawrence said the vote reflects a shared commitment to finishing what the City started. “This project has taken a longer road than any of us expected, but the goal has never changed,” Mayor Lawrence said. “We owe it to our residents to finish this Sportsplex the right way and deliver a facility our families can enjoy and be proud of for years to come. This vote shows we are united in moving forward.”

City leaders emphasized that stopping the project entirely would leave millions invested without a usable public facility. Approving Option B allows Decatur to complete the Sportsplex, activate the site, and provide new recreational opportunities that support local families, youth sports, and community events.

Construction timelines and next steps will be shared as the project moves into its next phase.