A "Fair" Price for Improvements

[XLFD]

On March 26, 2011, the LDN reported on two projects being done at the Western Michigan Fairgrounds.

Capital improvements: Plans are to renovate the entrance with new lighting, a digital sign, fence and landscaping; asphalt the grounds’ roads and walkways to make the grounds and buildings more accessible; add an interpretive nature trail. The cost is $427,000. A $320,000 grant would pay for the bulk of the project, with $107,000 from the community. $5,500 has been raised for the matching money so far.

Grandstand Roof: The grandstand roof had to be removed as it was deteriorating and was a safety concern. Plans are to put on a new roof at a cost of $175,000. So far, $25,000 in grants have been received, $15,000 from Consumers Energy and $10,000 from the Rollin M. Gerstacker Foundation.

 

The following link supplied by WMF explains a little more about the two projects on its home page:

Fair Projects

 

For the Capital improvements , isn't it rather extravagant to spend nearly a half of a million dollars in such projects at a time when our area (city, county and state) is in such dire financial problems?  Accessibility is great, but let's remember how long the ADA has been in effect (21 years) and wonder why the powers that be in this county have not addressed this before.  And can you imagine an 'interpretive nature trail' at the fairgrounds-- it's pretty much an open field with buildings!  I really don't understand why the State DNR money continues to be used for projects like this and for constructing city marina docks, it really goes beyond the scope of that agency, in my opinion.

 

For the roof, lets consider this.  The grandstand is used during the fair, and perhaps once or twice during the rest of the year for a special event or two.  Maybe ten days a year.  If this $175,000 roof is made like the last roof, it will be basically flat, be burdened with snow and ice for a third of the year, and would likely last about 30 years, with any luck.  So effectively we are spending around $6000 per year, that is $600 for every day that this roof is actually above heads. 

But this is of little importance to those who spend our tax money; instead of considering whether this roof is actually necessary (remember, much of the events that use the grandstand seating would be postponed due to nasty weather), or of whether a canvass roof which could be taken down and put up with little effort and cost on the existing supports (and not have to weather the off-season) might be a better alternative. 

Get the grants, match the money, and raise more taxes and fees on the people to offset the impact.  When you next check out the cattle pens at the Western Michigan Fair, just realize that's how our county government must look at us

[Sweater Cows!]

I wondered why the roof was gone. I like your canvas Idea but I think the height may be an issue. Long term they would have to rent or own a lift of some sort to be able to mount it. That expense may out weigh the cost of the roof.

[XLFD]

I'm going to check up on what they have, but I'm thinking they might just be able to attach such a covering at just above head level in the back, and then rig up a flagpole-style pulley in the front uprights to hoist and secure it, obviating the need for any lift or ladder. 

Then bring it down the same way, after the event.  Half hour of prep either way, and the event coordinator can deem whether the extra shelter is needed or not the day of the event.

[AQUAMAN]

I see where the arch at the entrance was also damaged severely recently by a waste hauler. They claim they are going to fix that now, due to it's architectural and antique relevance. I liked the old arch, but somehow don't see it as significant. Some others recently have asked why this large plat of land is still being used for a fair grounds, when other plats could be substituted in a better area. Where? And what would we use that land for in the future if not this? Maybe someone else can point me to the new train of thoughts on this? Thanks.

[XLFD]

The damage came at a convenient time, but with a digital sign and other improvements at the entrance, the nostalgic look is likely to be passed over by a more attention-grabbing sign or two.  As this is a county project, maybe that sign project will have some fairly-awarded competitive bids, LOL.

I am as much in the dark about where that person was wanting to go with the fairgrounds.  When it was established, that was the smart place to go with it, I believe.  If we were placing it now, we might want to establish it closer to Scottville in Amber Township, but I still think it fits nicely where it's currently at.