DECATUR, GA —The DeKalb County Board of Commissioners approved a combined $879,000 in investments on Tuesday (Sept. 22) for the Sugar Creek Golf & Tennis Center and the Porter Sanford III Performing Arts & Community Center. 

The investments, brought forward by District 3 Commissioner Nicole Massiah, will improvefacilities that provide arts, recreation, and gathering spaces for residents across the community.

“These are investments in places where people come together,” Massiah said. “Whether it’s enjoying a performance at Porter Sanford or spending an evening on the tenniscourts at Sugar Creek, our residents deserve quality facilities right here in their community. I’m grateful we can continue improving these spaces and creating more opportunities for families throughout District 3.”

At Porter Sanford, $79,000 will fund equipment and technology improvements, including upgrades to the Flex Theater, a new digital marquee, wireless lighting equipment, risers, and other equipment. The 17½-year-old center serves local artists, youth, schools, community organizations, and performers. The improvements will help the facility accommodate more performances, programs, and community events.

Sugar Creek Golf & Tennis Center will receive an investment of up to $800,000 for additional lighting and construction of a retaining wall needed to support development of a third tennis court. The improvements are expected to increase safety, extend evening playing hours, and expand recreational opportunities for residents.

The two investments reflect Massiah’s broader focus on improving quality of life and creating more connected communities by strengthening the public spaces and amenities residents use every day.

“This is about taking care of the community assets we already have and making them better,” Massiah said. “When we invest in places that encourage people to gather, stay active and experience the arts, we are investing in the overall health and vitality of District 3.”