Iowa State Fair unveils $20 million in upgrades
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Variety Star Playground was constructed as part of an Iowa State Fair partnership. Photo: Jason Clayworth/Axios
Over $20 million in upgrades are being made at the Iowa State Fairgrounds over the next two years, and many of the projects will be completed before next week when the 2025 fair begins.
Why it matters: With over 1 million visitors each year, the fair is the largest event in the state and generates a significant economic impact.
- Renovations help modernize and keep the experience fresh.
Here are the most noticeable changes, as highlighted by Iowa State Fair CEO Jeremy Parsons in an interview with Axios.
Variety Star Playground
The "Fun Forest" play area received a $500,000 update, making it accessible to people of all abilities.
- It will also be a year-round destination, serving as park space with free access during non-fair times.
State of play: The equipment comes with an agricultural theme with toy farm animals, complete with an accessible ramp and a smooth, easy-to-navigate surface.
Ron and Bev Shivers Family Plaza
The $1.1 million food court-style plaza has permanent restrooms, picnic seating and shaded areas for cooling off.
Zoom in: It is located in the old "Church Row" zone between JR's South Pork Ranch and Old West Roadhouse BBQ.
- That area had been used by nonprofit groups for decades as food vending spaces and even as a beer tent in the early 2000s.
Horse Barn renovations
The first phase of the $13.1 million Horse Barn renovation includes exterior painting, window replacement, masonry repairs and updates to its north restroom area.
- A second phase, which will be completed before the 2026 fair, includes roofing, enhanced ventilation and new concrete floors with radiant heat for use during cooler months.
Other notable upgrades
- A sidewalk was added on the east side of East 30th Street, between East University and East Grand avenues, where there was previously only a west side walk.
- A pedestrian entrance near the corner of East 30th Street and Maple Street was added to ease pressure from an area often used by park-and-ride users on the west side.
- Some additional paved accessible parking is available in Lot B.
- A new grounds-wide emergency announcement system is in place.