The City of Mishawaka celebrated the ribbon cutting and grand reveal of the new outdoor Kamm Island Pavilion on Tuesday, July 14th, 2026. The ribbon cutting was held at 11:30 am at Kamm Island Park, 600 W Front Street.
The new Kamm Island Pavillion serves as the City of Mishawaka’s first permanent stage, costing just under $500,000. Mayor Dave Wood states that a significant portion of the pavilions funding was donated through the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (CARES Act).
Mayor Wood shares that the Kamm Island Pavillion design is inspired by the rich Mishawaka history. The stage takes inspiration from the former Tribe-O-Rea Drugstore that once stood at the corner of Byrkit and Lincolnway. Mayor Wood also states that the signage and other visual elements surrounding the drugstore inspired the final product.
Not only was the Kamm Island Pavillion inspired by Tribe-O-Rea, but the Pavillion was named and dedicated in the honor of previous Mishawaka Mayor, Jeff Rea.
“I’m really humbled by this.” states Rea. “Because it wasn’t about me. It was about our team who worked really hard to do better for Mishawaka. I’m really grateful.”
The Kamm Island Pavilion represents another investment in the City of Mishawaka’s commitment to improving the City’s quality of life. By honoring Mishawaka’s rich history while recognizing the contributions of former Mayor Jeff Rea, the Pavilion stands as a lasting symbol of the City’s appreciation for its past and its continued vision for the future.
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