Project designers, Design Workshop, presented three concept ideas for a new design of the Boulder County Fairgrounds — with hope of creating a final plan by June.
On Monday night, Boulder County Parks and Open Space along with Public Works hosted a virtual meeting with nearly 50 people interested in the future of the county’s fairgrounds.
The Fairgrounds were built in 1977, making several of its buildings over 40 years old.
While the area is used for many events, there have been complaints that a more diverse functionality is needed to address the needs of agricultural and other types of events.
The new design concepts include adding 137,000 sq ft to barn and livestock areas, 80,000 sq ft to the indoor arena, 30% more RV parking spaces, increasing horse stalls by 25% and adding 25,000 sq ft for administrative office spaces.
During the Monday night meeting, designers offered the community three options to choose from, stating no one design has been chosen. Spokespeople also stated that they expect a hybrid of the designs to end up as the final overall design.
Project Manager at Boulder County Public Works, Karla Shultz, said a budget will not be determined until a final plan is adopted by the county commissioners and the project will be phased in overtime.
Locals can visit the county’s website to view the proposed concept designs and weigh in on each of the options. Feedback is welcomed through March 31.
Each concept includes a featured “Main Street” concept with amenities around it so foot traffic and unloading are better able to access all the buildings.
Two of the concepts include moving the farmers market along Nelson Road, adjacent to the Longmont Humane Society.
Members of the public had concerns about moving the RV parking too close to Cattail Pond, which is also close to the osprey nest.
Design makers said the current concepts did not account for how to better utilize green spaces within the fairgrounds but did ask for community feedback during the meeting. They said these plans were still being considered and would show up in the final plan.
