Foundation Hopes for Improvements to State Fair Buildings

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Published on August 16 2017 10:40 am
Last Updated on August 16 2017 10:40 am

BY JIM TAYLOR

There’s some character to the Illinois State Fairgrounds in Springfield and there’s some age too.

“The Grandstand was built in 1927, the Coliseum in 1901 and Exposition Building in 1894,” said John Slayton, chairman of the Illinois Fairgrounds Foundation. “So, we’ve got some historic buildings on the fairgrounds and that’s one reason the Illinois State Fairgrounds is considered a historic site. These are architectural gems and they need attention.”

The 11-member foundation board organized a year ago and wants to raise funds to make much needed repairs to both the Springfield and Du Quoin fairgrounds.

“And according to the Capital Development Board when they made the announcement of this foundation, there’s $185-million of necessary work, repairs and renovations that have to be made on both fairgrounds,” Slayton said.

There are 170 buildings on the Springfield fairgrounds and another 20 in Du Quoin.

The foundation gained tax exempt status last month and is now a 501(c)(3) corporation. A website has been created and information on making donations can be found at www.ilfairfoundation.com.

“We’ve got four conversations ongoing right now relative to naming rights on the Coliseum, on the Grandstand, on the Livestock Center and on the Swine Building,” Slayton said. “So, I think those will eventually come out this fall and maybe we can make some noticeable changes before next year's fair.”

In addition to serving on the Illinois Fairgrounds Foundation, Slayton has helped with the Illinois State Fair’s “Sale of Champions” for 27 years.