Graham Park exhibition center FAQs
These FAQs were developed based on questions and input gathered during a Graham Park open house event on November 14, 2024. The event allowed the Olmsted County Fair Board, Olmsted County Board of Commissioners, and 4-H families, to learn about and provide feedback on the future of Graham Park and the planned exhibition center.
As the project progresses, these FAQs will continue to evolve, with new questions and updates added as more information becomes available. If you would like to submit a question, please email grahampark@olmstedcounty.gov.
General questions
When will exhibition center construction begin?
Construction is expected to begin in August 2025. The building is expected to be occupied in January 2027.
Will there be more opportunities for public input or review?
The team is discussing options for future information sessions. Updates will also be shared through platforms like the 4-H newsletter and Olmsted County website.
Who will manage the new exhibition center?
Olmsted County plans to partner with a private operator to handle scheduling, management, and other operational tasks for the exhibition center.
What is the purpose of the new exhibition center?
The exhibition center is designed as a multi-purpose facility to meet diverse community needs, including the Olmsted County Fair, trade shows, animal agriculture, horse shows, sports events, and concerts. It is not tailored for any single interest or market but meant to serve a wide variety of uses.
How will trailer access, traffic flow, and parking be handled?
The design team is working on these logistics, including turning radiuses and accommodations for semi-trucks and trailers. Additional information will be added when available.
Exhibition center design and use
Can more animals be stalled in the new exhibition center during the fair?
Yes, the exhibition center will provide some horse stalling and an indoor arena for shows and competitions.
Can the exhibition center host national shows for different animals?
Yes, the design allows for flexibility to accommodate such events.
Will the outdoor arena be used for shows during the fair?
The outdoor arena is intended for warm-up and practice during the fair and is sized accordingly.
Will the show arena accommodate 6-horse hitch shows?
Yes, the arena is being designed to accommodate this.
What about flexible access to bathrooms and arena connections?
The design team is exploring options to ensure flexibility for bathroom access and arena openings.
Livestock and facility needs
How will manure management work?
Manure disposal areas will be located near all livestock areas, including the north end of the exhibition center.
Will there be a vacuum for dairy milking?
Options for providing a vacuum for milking are being explored, but exhibitors will need to bring their own lines and tanks.
Where will wash racks be located?
Wash racks will remain at the north end of Graham Arena 3, with additional racks near livestock areas. Indoor washing options for horses are also under consideration in the exhibition center during non-fair times.
Stalling
Are 10’ x 10’ stalls adequate for horses?
The stalls will be 10’ x 10’ to maximize flexibility, but end panels can be removed to create larger stalls when needed.
Will there be enough space for all animals during the fair?
The team is working with the University of MN Extension and the Olmsted County Fair Board to ensure adequate stalling and exhibition space.
Will there be new pens for dairy and horses?
Yes, new pens and stalling will be provided.
Will outdoor tents be acceptable for draft horse owners?
Temporary stalls, similar to current setups, will be provided for draft horses during the fair.
4-H and Olmsted County Fair needs
Where will 4-H projects be displayed?
Several options are being explored, including using Toyota Arena inside the Graham Arena Complex.
Is Aune Hall large enough for 4-H static projects?
Aune Hall is large enough to display projects but not large enough for judging. Options for other locations are under review.
Can animal schedules during the fair be adjusted for better use of the new exhibition center?
This idea will be discussed with the Olmsted County Fair Board and University of MN Extension.
Graham arenas
Will the show arena size in Graham Arena 2 be improved?
Yes, the current size is being reconsidered to enhance usability.
What changes are planned for Graham Arena 1 Presented by Mayo Clinic?
The show ring may be relocated to the north side for easier access for dairy exhibitors.
Are there plans to upgrade power and stalling in existing Graham arenas?
Yes, upgrades to support fair needs are being evaluated.
Other features
What are the plans for the grandstands?
The Olmsted County Board of Commissioners is actively discussing this topic. A timeline is not yet available.
Where will the activity pad (area for activities like rodeos, equestrian shows, concerts, car shows) be located?
The pad is planned west of the exhibition center and will be oriented lengthwise from east to west.
Will bleachers be elevated for safety?
The design team is considering the use of an earthen berm to elevate bleachers.
What about traffic flow for commuters near Arena Drive?
Traffic management plans are being developed to address this concern.