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The State Fair Times: WSF Explores an Exciting Potential Project

by Wyoming Livestock Roundup

The Wyoming State Fair (WSF) is currently exploring an exciting potential project to enclose the Silver Arena – one of its key facilities. 

According to WSF General Manager Courtny Conkle, the goal of this project is to enhance the fairgrounds’ capabilities and offer a versatile, year-round event space for visitors and the community. 

Following a series of public meetings, held at the WSF Fairgrounds in May, initial imagery and concepts were shared, generating widespread anticipation and interest.

Public discussion

Conkle notes a series of public meetings were held at WSF fairgrounds throughout the month of May, and during these meetings, fairgrounds officials, architects and project planners engaged with the community to present initial imagery and concepts for the enclosure of the Silver Arena.

“The presentations generated excitement among attendees, who were impressed by the possibilities and potential of the project,” she says. “Public feedback and input were sought, demonstrating the fairgrounds’ commitment to stakeholder communication and collaboration.”

Project benefits

“The Wyoming State Fairgrounds is a cherished institution which showcases Wyoming’s rich agricultural heritage and provides a platform for over 400 event days annually,” Conkle says. “The potential project to enclose the Silver Arena represents a significant opportunity to expand the fairground’s offerings and maximize its impact throughout the year.”

She further explains enclosing the Silver Arena will provide a fully indoor environment, ensuring event organizers and attendees can enjoy a comfortable and adaptable space, regardless of weather conditions. 

The project envisions state-of-the-art facilities, flexible seating arrangements and modern infrastructure, allowing for a wide range of events such as horse shows, rodeos, barrel race futurities, team ropings and various Western lifestyle events.

The potential project to enclose the Silver Arena represents a significant investment in the Wyoming State Fairgrounds and the surrounding community. It would create new opportunities for event organizers, attract a diverse range of events throughout the year and significantly boost the economic impact on local businesses and the state.

“We are thrilled about the potential of enclosing the Silver Arena and the positive impact it will have on the Wyoming State Fairgrounds. The initial public meetings allowed us to share our vision with the community and gather valuable feedback. We look forward to progressing with the project and continuing to engage with the public throughout the process,” Conkle concludes.

Updates and opportunities for feedback will be shared through the WSF Fairground’s website, social media channels and future public meetings. 

Hannah Bugas is the managing editor of the Wyoming Livestock Roundup. Send comments on this article to roundup@wylr.net.

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