Kentucky Awards Record Grants to County Fairs

By Blake Jackson

The Kentucky Department of Agriculture has awarded a record number of county fair grants this year, supporting new construction and renovation projects across the state. Commissioner Jonathan Shell announced that ten county fairs will receive a combined total of $748,793.13 through this year’s funding cycle.

"For agricultural communities across the state, county fairs lie at their cores," Commissioner Shell said. "I’m thrilled to announce we were able to award grants to a record number of counties this year by providing funding to 10 local county fair boards for vital infrastructure improvements. These grants will allow county fair boards to enrich the fair experience for their communities and their agricultural partners."

This year’s grant recipients and their funded projects include:

• Ballard County - $44,117.19 for site preparation and installation of a horse barn and metal stalls.
• Boyd County - $62,233.50 for nine sets of bleachers and concrete work.
• Clark County - $15,984 for roof repair, a pageant room expansion, and replacement of the show ring fence and lighting.
• Clinton County - $75,859.30 for arena fencing, a new gate, concrete safety walls, guard rails, an announcer’s stand, speakers, a flagpole, and septic system replacement.
• Germantown Fair - $100,000 for major building renovations, including new windows, doors, insulation, HVAC, electrical, siding, and roofing.
• Hart County - $70,746.60 for reconstruction of the exhibit hall roof, new porch overhangs, walkway updates, lighting, fencing, and a public announcement system.
• Laurel County - $100,000 to build new restrooms and a concession facility.
• Oldham County - $100,000 for bleachers, new asphalt and concrete walkways, and an agricultural building.
• Pulaski County - $79,852.54 to upgrade an existing building and replace outdoor lighting and HVAC systems.
• Shelby County - $100,000 for renovation of a horse barn.

Through the State Aid to Local Agricultural Fairs Program, any incorporated fair board may apply for grants ranging from $10,000 to $100,000. Each award covers 75% of the project cost, with local boards contributing the remaining 25%. Projects must begin within 90 days of award notification and be completed within nine months.

Applications are due annually by October 1, submitted to the KDA’s Shows and Fairs Branch. Additional program details are available at the KDA website.

Photo Credit: kentucky-agricultural-board