Coming Summer 2027!

In a major investment aimed at meeting the needs of Decatur’s rapidly growing older adult population, the Decatur Park District Board of Commissioners on Wednesday, March 18, approved a $10,330,000 construction bid from Boeren-Russo of Champaign, Illinois, for the development of a new 37,000+ square-foot Activity Center for Mature Adults. The facility will be located adjacent to the existing Scovill Park West Activity Center.

This transformational project comes as national trends show adults age 55 and older will soon outnumber those under 18, underscoring the increasing demand for dedicated spaces that support healthy, active aging.

This new center will significantly expand the Park District’s recreational offerings for adults age 55 and older, introducing innovative programs that promote active aging, physical wellness, and social connection. Designed as a vibrant and welcoming hub, the facility will provide a place where older adults can remain active, engaged, and connected while fostering a strong sense of community and belonging.

The facility will feature a spacious, welcoming lobby with a coffee bar designed to encourage social interaction. Eight large, flexible activity rooms will support both traditional programming and new, innovative offerings that leverage the Park District’s diverse departments. Additional amenities will include an indoor walking track, two indoor pickleball courts, a dedicated crafting space, and a game room equipped with billiards, shuffleboard, darts, and a golf simulator.

A 600-seat event space will accommodate large-scale senior programming and community events, including weddings and gatherings. This space will open onto a 2,800-square-foot outdoor deck overlooking Scovill Park West through large overhead doors, creating a seamless indoor-outdoor experience.

The center will also expand space for services provided by the Decatur Park District and its community partners, enhancing the District’s ability to meet the evolving needs of Decatur’s growing senior population.

Currently, the Decatur Park District offers a wide range of senior services to support health, independence, and quality of life. These include Senior Health Insurance Program (SHIP) counseling, Medicare Part D assistance, daily congregate meals, food vouchers for local farmers’ markets, adaptive communication devices, diabetic shoe fittings, annual fan distribution programs, driver’s license renewal assistance, and free tax preparation services, among many others.

Construction is anticipated to begin in May 2026, with completion expected in summer 2027.

“We are committed to providing seniors with the resources and opportunities they need to maintain their independence and lead vibrant, fulfilling lives,” said Clay Gerhard, Executive Director of the Decatur Park District. “This new Activity Center, combined with our strong programming and existing services, reflects the Park Board’s commitment to supporting the health and well-being of our community’s older adults. As the population of residents ages 55 and older continues to grow, this investment ensures we are prepared to meet their needs and keep them connected and engaged.”