Architects present four fairgrounds building options with $4.4M–$5.4M cost range; commissioners ask for refined analysis

Studio Southwest Architects presented four schematic options for a new multi-purpose building at the county fairgrounds. The largest option would add about 22,500 square feet adjacent to existing barns and carry an estimated full-construction cost of roughly $5.4 million, while a smaller option that preserves more of the existing covered arena was estimated at about $4.4 million. Architect Laurie Anderson explained that a close north wall alignment would require a masonry firewall unless a fire‑suppression system were installed, which could save approximately $180,000 in structural firewall cost by substituting sprinkler systems. "You will not need the firewall if you have a fire suppression system in the new Multi‑Purpose building," Anderson said.

The firm provided a schedule projecting schematic design, ten-week construction documents, and roughly a year of construction, with procurement timelines affecting potential start dates. Commissioners asked for a blended option that reduced demolition of existing covered areas while maintaining workable 30‑foot clearances in key zones; Chair Schwebach and others asked the manager's office to compress procurement where possible to meet appropriation timing windows for phased funding.