Howard G. Buffett Foundation gives $7.6 million to Decatur amphitheater

The Howard G. Buffett Foundation has awarded $7.6 million to the Devon Lakeshore Amphitheater in Decatur, Ill., the Decatur Park District said on October 21, according to WAND.

The money will pay for an expansion of the outdoor venue, including 1,600 additional seats in the lawn section, more ADA seating and a new accessible entrance at the upper parking lot. A concession stand and restroom building will also be added near the lawn.

The park district said the work is intended to improve the experience for concertgoers and to help the amphitheater book larger acts.

Construction is scheduled to begin in 2027 and to be completed before the 2028 concert season.

"This remarkable gift will allow us to build upon that success, attract even larger performers, and provide an exceptional entertainment experience for generations to come," said Chris Harrison, president of the Decatur Park Board, in a statement. He described the grant as an investment in the city's future rather than only in buildings.

This story was first reported by WAND.