Hamilton County leaders and community members got a first look this week at the newly renovated 4-H Exhibition Building and Llama Barn, marking the first major upgrades to the county fairgrounds in more than 25 years.
Unveiled during a preview event on Monday, April 28, the renovations are part of Phase One of a three-phase redevelopment plan aimed at modernizing the 40-acre campus. The updated facilities will officially open to the public on June 1 and are expected to expand the site’s capacity for large-scale events and year-round community programming.
“These improvements will provide accessible public space for more community events, support the Hamilton County Extension, agricultural and life science industries, provide world-class learning space, and act as a catalyst for economic development,” said Susan Peterson, Purdue Extension Hamilton County Director.
Renovations to the 24,000-square-foot Exhibition Center, managed by construction firm Skender, include a new roof, flooring, restrooms, and upgraded audio/visual technology. The Llama Barn, updated by Hagerman Construction, received a 2,117-square-foot expansion, new restrooms and catering prep area, heating and cooling upgrades, large air fans, and AV enhancements.
The Hamilton County Council and Board of Commissioners invested $15 million in the first phase of the project.
“The County understood the need for a long-overdue investment in this vital community asset,” said County Council President Sue Maki. “We saw this as an opportunity to not only support 4-H but to create a high-impact venue that brings lasting value to Hamilton County residents.”
A new Bicentennial Pavilion—replacing the O.V. Winks and Annex Buildings—is slated to open in time for the Hamilton County 4-H Fair, set for July 17–21. A ribbon-cutting ceremony is expected to be announced soon.
Future phases, dependent on additional funding, could include a new Show Arena, two landmark silos at the campus entrance, and upgrades to outdoor structures. Supporters are currently seeking donors to help move the project forward.