Whoa! Look at What’s Happening at the Williston Fairgrounds
Sometimes all it takes is a quick conversation to remind you that things are changing quickly, right in our backyard.
A friend of mine stopped by the station the other day to record something, and during our conversation, the fairgrounds came up. This is someone I served with on the Williston Fair Board for several years, so when she said, “You should see what’s going on out there,” you can probably guess what happened next.
She had my attention.
As many people in the area know, Williams County purchased the Fairgrounds from the Fair Board back in February, and it certainly looks like things are moving quickly.
So, I decided to take a drive out there last night and see it for myself.
I was amazed at how much has already changed.
The Fairgrounds Are Getting a Makeover
One of the first things I noticed was the work on the west side of the property. The parking lot has been leveled, giving the area a completely different look. Sadly, this also means the end of an old fairgrounds tradition: Lake Nelson, the giant puddle that seemed to make an annual appearance whenever it rained before or during fair week.
There is also new asphalt on the road and around the Fairgrounds. It may not sound like the most exciting thing in the world, but if you've spent any time out there over the years, you know what a difference a smoother road and improved surfaces can make.
And then there are the buildings.
Three older buildings have been taken down, opening up even more space around the Fairgrounds.
What Comes Next?
Walking around the Fairgrounds and seeing the changes firsthand got me thinking about just how different this place could look down the road.
The Fairgrounds have been part of Williston for a long time, hosting everything from the annual fair to community events, gatherings and plenty of memories for local families.
Williams County took ownership earlier this year, and if the work we've already seen is any indication, there could be plenty more changes ahead. Maybe some new buildings, or things reconfigured? Time will tell I guess.
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After seeing how much has happened in just a matter of months, I have to admit, I'm pretty curious to see what comes next.
And if these improvements continue at this pace, the Fairgrounds could look like a very different place the next time the fair rolls around.
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