Facility to be available to rent for winter storage, 2020 fair
Not only will a new show arena be complete in time for next year’s Logan County Fair, but the building will start paying dividends yet this year after work is complete early next month in time for the winter storage season.
The 80-foot by 150-foot structure is expected to be enclosed on or about Nov. 1, and will be utilized for winter storage. Fair board members have estimated the building could generate some $5,000 by functioning as a storage facility between November and next April.
Progress on the building was showcased Thursday during a check presentation event staged on the fairgrounds by board members and Logan County Commissioners. The commissioners made good Thursday on a $100,000 donation promised to the fair board towards completion of the building.
Construction began on the facility last week. All-Win Electric out of Delaware was awarded the work for Phase I at a cost of $211,174. Ongoing work will outfit the new building with electricity, as well as lining and insulation for the walls and ceiling.
The previous show arena dated to around 1970, was no longer safe for use, and had to be replaced despite its “history and heritage,” Commissioner Joe Antram said.
“It is our duty as commissioners to provide a facility that our community, children and adults alike, can participate in safely,” Antram said.
The new building will also provide for greater versatility, county officials said.
“The new show arena will be a multi-purpose space for agriculture and community use,” according to promotional and fundraising materials circulated by the fair board. “During the fair, it will host a greater number of livestock shows and exhibitor activities.
“In the offseason, the building will provide opportunities for additional revenue for the Ag Society; open livestock shows and sales, community events, weddings, reunions, or winter storage rental.
Fair board members also project some growth in their livestock by programs by doubling the size of it the show arena.
Contributions are still being accepted for the new building, and may be made by contacting the fair office.