City of Decatur breaks ground on new town square renovations

DECATUR, Ga. (Atlanta News First) - The City of Decatur held a groundbreaking today on Phase One of a plan to completely renovate its popular Decatur Square.

It’s part of the city’s plan, in place since 1982, to prevent the square from becoming “square”, and to keep businesses and residents satisfied.

New, modern public restrooms are being installed, but most notable is the removal of the gazebo, also known as “the bandstand”.

“The existing community bandstand really hides the historic Dekalb Courthouse, which is now The History Center,” said assistant city manager Andrea Threadgill.

A performing arts stage will be installed in its place.

“With the demolition of the bandstand, we’re going to level out the ground and open up (the area) with new turf and a gathering area,” Threadgill said.

That turf created a unique groundbreaking scenario on Thursday. The dirt had to be brought into the square for the ceremony, as the Decatur MARTA station sits directly below Decatur Square.

The 10-month project is welcomed by Parham Savadkoohi and his business, Raging Taco, which has been on the square for decades.

“The city is developing, and it’s nice,” Savadkoohi said.

Raging Taco sells “the biggest burritos you could possibly see,” but construction could make those profit margins a little slim.

“You’re always worried about what’s happening while it’s being renovated,” Savadkoohi said. “But I think, in the end, the project is going to be worth it.”

Aside from the bandstand blocking the courthouse view, city officials noted that it was also an issue for bands, who felt that the sound and visual setup did not work well for musical acts.

Construction is expected to start by early May.