Fairgrounds projects completed

Construction work has wrapped up on a second phase of infrastructure improvements at the Flathead County Fairgrounds, just in time for the Northwest Montana Fair and Rodeo that opens Aug. 19.

The project included the installation of storm drains and new utility lines through the midsection of the fairground. New paved roads are now situated in front and back of the food court.

“The roads look really sharp,” Fairgrounds Manager Mark Campbell said. “The new road behind the food stands is mostly a brand new road.”

The addition of crossroads at strategic intervals will “help guests flow from one side to the other,” he said.

“One of the primary benefits is drainage,” Campbell added. “Water has a proper place to go now. It’s been a lot of work and lot of money to fix something needed for several years.”

The county had identified  areas that needed to come into compliance with the Americans With Disabilities Act. There are new entryways into the draft horse, llama and rabbit/poultry barns, as well as the shooting sports building. A new handicap ramp was installed at the floriculture building.

The improvements were budgeted at $690,000, but about $10,000 in final change-orders will push the total to $700,000, Campbell said. The disability-related improvements were paid for through a separate county fund.

AGC Inc. of Kalispell was the general contractor.

The infrastructure work is part of a $1.5 million upgrade to the aging fairgrounds. Last year a new roof was installed on the grandstand, and an initial round of stormwater system and utility work was done.

Features editor Lynnette Hintze may be reached at 758-4421 or by email at lhintze@dailyinterlake.com.