Big changes are on the horizon for South Bend’s Morris Performing Arts Center.

From upgraded facilities to enhanced performance experiences, phase two is set to begin late summer.

The building, wrapping up with phase one, has city leaders eager for the next stage of improvements.

“I think investing in the Morris is investing in our community,” said Jordan Gathers, Venue Parks and Arts Interim Director.

Renovations in phase one, costing $10 million dollars involved new seats, roof, fire alarm system, carpet, HVAC, boiler and pump replacements, LED lighting, and repainted handrails.

Phase 2 will cost $16.5 million and will be adding new space.

“We are looking forward to providing an additional 20,000 ft. of floor space for special events of all kinds,” said Gathers.

Also providing more restrooms and storage space right in between the existing Morris and Lasalle building.

Officials say to fund this phase, no local tax dollars will be used.

$9 million is coming from the Professional Sports Convention Development Area funding from the state.

“Very grateful for the South Bend common council, approving the general fund appropriation, which would be in terms reimbursed from the professional sports convention and development area,” said Gathers.

This will bring in $2.5 million each year to repay the 9 million transferred from the General Fund Account.

In addition, $6 million in private donations have already been collected and $1.5 million from READI Grant funding.

Totaling $16.5 million for phase 2, expected to last 16 months.

Gathers shares Phase 3 will include a potential parking garage for visitors making the Morris Performing Arts Center even more attractive to performers.

“we also secured the 71st spot amongst the top 100 US theaters so this project is going to be able to add up on that to be able to continue to hold over hundreds of events year after year,” said Gathers.

Phase three construction is set to begin in 2026 and has already secured $9 million in private donations.