Development of Decatur Commons
Decatur Commons is a proposed public commons or central park for the area known as Dry Creek that runs from the Tennessee River south to Gordon Drive. The site currently contains a shallow creek surrounded by floodplain and upland areas that include a series of underutilized cotton warehouses near West Moulton Street.
The upland portions of Decatur Commons present an opportunity to develop an in-town "business and mixed-use park" along the east side of the creek. The "Commons" would provide a clear developable site with infrastructure that is developer ready. Decatur Commons is also expected to attract new businesses to downtown, including high-tech companies.
Goals for this project as outlined in the strategic plan are:
- Using the ADM property as a catalyst, develop a plan and marketing package to acquire the remaining warehouse properties to be developed as Decatur Commons
- Assist in the development of The 21st Century Academy campus
- Create a TIF district to help facilitate new downtown development
- Create a technology oriented Business Park in Decatur Commons
- Help create transportation linkages from West Town Village to the City Center
- Advocate pedestrian linkages through the new development known as Decatur Commons
- Create a campus-like setting for an assisted-living center in Decatur Commons
Other proposed elements of the Decatur Commons project include:
- Downtown business park and technology center
- Dry Branch Creek floodplain reclaimed as downtown waterside park
- Passive multi-use trails and open play spaces on west bank
- Water activities and active recreation on east bank
- Downtown full-service recreation/adventure sports center
- Central Avenue extended as parkside address street for new businesses
