Valley County residents are being asked to weigh in on what the future of the county fairgrounds should look like.
On Tuesday, the Board of County Commissioners released a survey that will help guide the development of a master plan for the Valley County Fairgrounds in Cascade.
“This is an exciting opportunity to invest in a space that is not only a hub for community events, but also a potential catalyst for local economic growth,” Commissioner Katlin Caldwell said. “Community input will be essential as we work together to shape the future of the Fairgrounds.”
The survey can be completed by clicking here.
Once complete early next year, the master plan will chart the future of the fairgrounds and recommend improvements to the eight-acre site at 520 S. Front St.
In April, the county awarded a $58,000 contract to Clearwater Financial to develop the master plan.
The fairgrounds currently host the Valley County Fair and Rodeo each August, which features 4-H events, vendors, and classic rodeo competition. The site currently has a rodeo arena, bleachers and several outbuildings.
Road Department to move out
The fairgrounds are also home to the Valley County Road and Bridge Department, which uses the site for office space, a mechanics shop and equipment storage.
That arrangement, however, requires the Road Department to relocate vehicles and equipment during events at the fairgrounds.
The county recently began construction on a $4.6 million facility at 55 Gold Dust Rd. that will become the Road Department’s new headquarters. That work could be done as soon as next year, Valley County Clerk Doug Miller said.
The new shop is about three miles south of Cascade and will include three repair bays for large equipment, storage space, a welding shop, five offices, a conference room, bathrooms, a lobby and reception area, and a break room.
Moving the road department from the fairgrounds was recommended by the Valley County Facilities Master Plan, which recommended creating an individual master plan for the fairgrounds.
