Summit County Council convened on May 24, 2023, to discuss the ambitious Fairgrounds Master Plan, focusing on the approval of a construction contract for the North Summit Recreation and Fairgrounds project. The meeting highlighted the collaboration between the county and North Summit Recreation, aiming to enhance recreational facilities in the area.

Charity Richardson from the Recreation Board and Tyler Orgel from the Fairgrounds presented the plan, which builds on a master plan established in 2017. The project includes the construction of a multipurpose field, four pickleball courts, and a basketball court, with an initial funding boost of $1.1 million from a recreation grant. The county has also allocated an additional $2 million from restaurant tax funds to support the project.

The council discussed the challenges of integrating a softball field with fairground activities, noting that the conditions of the existing field had deterred teams from using the facility. The new plan aims to relocate the softball field to a more suitable location, allowing for better maintenance and use during the fair.

Key features of the project include improved irrigation systems and landscaping to enhance the fairgrounds' usability and aesthetic appeal. The council emphasized the importance of creating a versatile space that can accommodate various community events, including sports tournaments and concerts.

As the council moves forward with the construction contract, the anticipated improvements promise to revitalize the fairgrounds and provide much-needed recreational opportunities for the community. The next steps involve finalizing the contract and commencing construction, with hopes that the new facilities will foster greater community engagement and tourism in Summit County.