new purpose for big arizona state fairgrounds contemplated

The 88-acre site that makes up the Arizona State Fairgrounds in Phoenix may be redeveloped to allow for retail, office, and even some residential space.

Those are among the ideas current under study by State of Arizona officials, as well as various design specialists, as part of an effort to revive a site that is challenged with several aging buildings, some of which are in need of upgrading.

Members of the Arizona Exposition and State Fair Board say that they are open to allowing new developments on the site.

But it seems fairly certain that the iconic 12,200 square-foot State Fair Civic Building, which is a Works Progress Administration structure put up in 1938, will be a part of the site’s redevelopment.

Officials with the Arizona Exposition and State Fair Board, along with the Arizona State Historic Preservation Office and the Governor’s Office, are hosting a series of public input meetings this spring to discuss possible future uses for the site.

Located in 1826 W. McDowell Road, the site has hosted the popular annual Arizona State Fair since 1946.  

By Garry Boulard