Ohio Expo Center’s Major Upgrade Moves Ahead Amid Fair Season

Construction continues to transform the Ohio Expo Center fairgrounds as part of a multi-year revitalization effort that’s already reshaping what visitors see when they arrive for the state fair and other big events.

On a recent episode of Ohio Ag Net, Dale Minyo offered a first-hand update on the progress. “Visitors will see big changes ongoing as the fair gets major upgrades in the multi-year update,” Minyo said, emphasizing that fairgoers can expect both new amenities and construction work still in progress.

Ohio Ag Net’s Joel Penhorwood also spoke with Melinda Witten, President and CEO of the Ohio AgriBusiness Association (OABA), who provided insight into the state’s role in funding these improvements and supporting the region’s agricultural economy. Witten noted the importance of consistent state investment to keep Ohio’s premier agricultural showcase facilities competitive and safe for exhibitors and guests.

“These investments are critical to keeping Ohio’s ag sector strong and connected,” said Witten. “We’re excited to see progress and to share these changes with our members and the public.”

The ongoing construction work includes upgrading livestock barns that have served the fair for generations, modernizing outdated infrastructure such as power, water, and HVAC systems, and building new multipurpose spaces to host events year-round. Accessibility improvements, better parking and traffic flow, and stronger Wi-Fi and digital amenities are also part of the plan.

State lawmakers have supported these improvements through targeted funding in the state budget, which Witten says is vital to ensure the fairgrounds remain a point of pride and economic driver for Ohio agriculture.

While construction fences and detours are part of the visitor experience this year, fair organizers stress that the short-term inconvenience will bring long-term benefits. They’re also working closely with exhibitors and vendors to minimize any disruptions during peak fair days.

Fair officials are encouraging visitors to plan ahead, watch for updated maps, and enjoy new amenities already open. Many families will see fresh surfaces, renovated restrooms, and improved pathways for livestock exhibitors and guests alike.

Outside the fairgrounds, local businesses are hopeful that the upgrades will bring bigger crowds and new opportunities for the surrounding Columbus community, which benefits from the tourism and spending that the Ohio Expo Center generates each year.

In addition to the physical improvements, the Expo Center’s leadership is exploring sustainability measures, such as upgraded waste management and energy-efficient building designs, which align with Ohio’s growing focus on agricultural innovation and stewardship

The fairgrounds project is just one piece of Ohio’s wider investment in its agricultural heritage and future. Over the next few years, visitors can expect continued improvements, from expanded event facilities to new spaces for educational programs, competitions, and year-round community events.

Organizers say the goal is not only to maintain the Ohio State Fair’s reputation as one of the largest in the country but also to position the Expo Center as a flexible venue for regional and national shows, boosting tourism and local jobs.

As Witten puts it, “Every dollar put into these fairgrounds supports thousands of Ohio families — from farm kids showing their animals to the agribusinesses that make our economy go.”

Originally reported by OCJ.