A Pavilion for Every Generation

The MSD of Decatur Township held a “Community Renovation Discussion” event on October 30, 2025. This meeting provided an overview of the upcoming Armstrong Pavilion Renovation project including funding, design, construction, and equipment. Dr. Scott Collins, Superintendent, shared that we are proud to enter into this renovation process, knowing that the Armstrong Pavilion will be updated to serve all generations of Decatur Township, including students and community members.

Chief Finance Officer, Kirk Farmer, shared that capacity for the renovation of the Armstrong Pavilion was created from the payoff of bonds from the construction of Blue & Gold Academies, the renovation of West Newton and Stephen Decatur Elementary Schools, and the extension of the preschool wing at Lynwood Elementary. 

As prior debt is paid off, new bonds will be issued so that the rate stays the same. Therefore, the Armstrong Pavilion Renovation will be funded without an increase to the current tax rate. In fact, the School Board of Education has been fiscally responsible by lowering two of the rates directly connected to local property taxes. The Debt Service tax rate is .6683 (decreased by 26.4% since 2021), which funds construction, and the Referendum tax rate is .2343, (decreased by 14.27% since 2021), which supports operational expenses.

 

The current Armstrong Pavilion structure was designed in 1987 and constructed in 1989. Therefore, issues have occurred due to inefficient mechanical systems (plumbing, HVAC, and lighting), as well as deteriorating roof and exterior walls and outdated technology. The Armstrong Pavilion is used for student and community programming. Decatur Middle School and Decatur Central High School utilize the space to support physical education, K-12 Decatur Township Athletics, DMS/DCHS Performing Arts, and Large Group Instruction. Community programming includes membership, health, wellness and fitness activities, as well as a community meeting location.

The architectural firm of Fanning Howey shared that the newly designed space will meet the needs of all users with a total refresh of the user experience including new wood courts, two classrooms, increased area for community fitness (separate cardio and strength), spectator seating, concessions, and more.

 

The general contractor, Patterson Horth, shared the renovation timeline, with construction predicted to begin in early April of 2026, with an estimated completion in September of 2027. Justin Dixson, Director of Operations, stated that the goal of Decatur Township is to keep the Pavilion open as long as possible, but when access is not possible due to safety during construction, alternate plans will be made to accommodate members. 

The meeting closed with questions and answers from community members. Look for further updates in the coming months as this project gets underway!