Decker Auditorium Remodel

MODUS served as the MEP (Mechanical, Electrical, and Plumbing) engineer for the transformative remodel and addition of the Decker Auditorium Center for Performing Arts, located on the Iowa Central Community College campus in Fort Dodge, Iowa. Renowned for its exceptional acoustics and ability to host a wide variety of performances and events, the Decker Auditorium stands as a vital cultural and entertainment hub for both the college and the greater Fort Dodge community. The project’s scope involved a two-story addition for vocal classrooms, set creation spaces, restrooms and lobby gathering space and the renovation to the auditorium upgraded and modernized the facility’s systems to enhance functionality, comfort, and user experience for performers, staff, and patrons alike.

The electrical system now supports the integration of a cutting-edge 6,000-channel lighting control system and the installation of 50 new speakers that deliver state-of-the-art audio performance. An advanced audiovisual system was also implemented, featuring a large video screen and seamless integration to accommodate diverse event requirements. The remodel included the addition of two new catwalks to improve stage lighting access and functionality, as well as the replacement of all stage curtains, ensuring the space remains visually impressive and adaptable for multi-use events. In terms of mechanical upgrades, the HVAC systems were optimized for quiet, efficient operation, ensuring audience comfort without disruption to performances. Plumbing improvements included the addition of 16 new toilet fixtures, modernized dressing rooms, and the installation of an ADA-compliant elevator, providing universal access to the stage and seating areas. The updated orchestra pit and flexible stage design allow for seamless adaptability to a range of events, from dance and theatrical performances to corporate gatherings and professional touring productions.

The Decker Auditorium remodel exemplifies MODUS’s commitment to enhancing performance venues through innovative, client-focused MEP design. By delivering cutting-edge solutions that prioritize comfort, functionality, and accessibility, the auditorium now provides an elevated experience for every visitor, ensuring its status as a centerpiece for cultural enrichment in Fort Dodge for years to come.