Kentucky Venues Announces Major Progress on Historic Expansion and Renovation Project

Major Progress at Kentucky Venues

Kentucky Venues has made remarkable strides in its $460 million expansion and renovation project at the Kentucky Exposition Center, an effort that began with a groundbreaking ceremony at the 120th Kentucky State Fair a year ago. As fairgoers and equestrian show participants visit this year’s fair, they can observe firsthand how the visionary renovations are unfolding. The first phase of this ambitious project is now well underway, aiming to enhance the facility's capacity and usability for various events.

The Significance of Phase I

This first segment of the development comes with a hefty investment of $180 million, paving the way for a 350,000-square-foot multifunctional space. This area, which is about six football fields large, is tailored for livestock competitions, equine showcases, sporting tournaments, and numerous trade shows and conventions. Earlier this year, Newmarket Hall, historically associated with livestock sales, was demolished to pave the way for this state-of-the-art facility.

Once completed, the new space will boast modern amenities including dedicated restroom facilities, a milking parlor suite, several major entrances, food service areas, and adaptable meeting rooms designed to accommodate agriculture-related events and conventions. It is anticipated that keys for this building will be handed over on December 31, 2026, ready for major events to utilize the space in 2027.

Workforce and Community Involvement

The project is being propelled forward by the collaborative efforts of about 3,500 to 4,000 tradespeople along with a dedicated design team of 150 members from Kentucky and other states across the nation. Their combined expertise is crucial in ensuring that the renovation melds top-tier functionality with Kentucky's diverse event portfolio.

This summer, visitors to the 2025 Kentucky State Fair have enjoyed the initial enhancements to the venue, including the newly rebuilt Gate Four entrance situated off Crittenden Drive, which now accommodates 50 percent more traffic lanes, expanded pedestrian areas, and improved digital signage. This revitalization also offers the largest queueing capacity of any entrance on-site, significantly easing congestion on surrounding roads. Renovation efforts for Gate Two are also set to commence before this year concludes.

Looking Ahead to Phase II

The upcoming Phase II entails a $213 million redevelopment, focusing on the West Wing, West Hall, and Pavilion. This phase will add another 249,000 square feet of interconnected Class A exhibition space, expansive pre-function lobby areas, additional meeting rooms, and enhanced food and beverage facilities spanning 40,000 square feet. Construction of this segment is projected to take between 18 to 24 months, slated to begin after the completion of Phase I.

According to David S. Beck, President and CEO of Kentucky Venues, “These enhancements represent more than just structural improvements; they symbolize an investment in Kentucky's future. They open doors to opportunities for farmers, enterprises, athletes, and families, solidifying the Commonwealth’s stature as a national leader in agriculture, events, and tourism.” He also expressed gratitude to the Kentucky General Assembly for their commitment to these vital projects, recognizing the substantial economic returns the venues provide for Kentucky.

The renovation initiative is keenly aimed at maintaining the Kentucky Exposition Center's stature as one of the largest exposition centers in the nation, ensuring it continues to draw world-class events and contribute to lasting economic benefits over the long term.

Discover More

For additional insights and renderings of the ongoing renovations, you can visit the official Kentucky Venues website, which showcases the latest updates on this transformative initiative.