Editor’s Note: This story was updated on July 11, 2024, at 2:45 p.m. The original version included information about money from the state’s One-time Strategic Community Investment Fund. The Knox County Fairgrounds did not receive any money from the OTSCIF.
MOUNT VERNON — A $106,831 state grant will help the Knox County Agricultural Society complete safety improvements at the Knox County Fairgrounds.
The money flows through Ohio’s County and Independent Fair Grant Program. The program helps county and independent agricultural societies improve their fairgrounds.
Improvement projects range from parking and camping sites to restroom upgrades or dilapidated building replacements.
Ohio House Bill 33 set aside $10 million for the program. Ohio’s 94 county and independent fairs received $106,831.54, except for two, which requested a lower amount.
“Investing in Ohio’s county and independent fairs means investing in some of Ohio’s most beloved traditions,” Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine said in a statement. “These improvements will ensure that our fairgrounds remain safe and accessible for everyone.”
‘A lot of things in the works’
‘The Knox County Agricultural Society can use the money.
“We have a lot of projects to do. A lot of things are in the works,” Ag Society Board President Jim Ruhl said.
He said safety drives priorities such as new asphalt and fixing trip hazards.
The major project underway at the Knox County Fairgrounds is running underground electric across the race track infield to eliminate cords and wires.
“Any money that is left over from that project will go toward the grandstand, replacing the wall and repairing the flat concrete where people walk,” Ruhl said.
“Next year we’ll work on making [the grandstand] more handicap accessible.”
Ruhl estimates the electric and concrete work cost will top $100,000.
The Knox County Fair will celebrate its 175th anniversary in 2024 and run from July 20 to 27. Entry is free on Saturday, July 20.
The Ohio Department of Agriculture’s website provides a complete list of Ohio’s fairs.
