DeWine announces 2050 Ohio Expo plan | Local News

Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine joined members of the Ohio Expositions Commission Dec. 8 to review the master plan framework that will serve as a launching point to modernize and enhance the Ohio Expo Center and Ohio State Fair.

The framework was created as part of the Expo 2050 Task Force work. DeWine created the task force in 2019 to develop a strategic vision for the 360-acre Ohio Expo Center property, which is home to the Ohio State Fair and hosts many other events throughout the year.

“The renderings you’re seeing today represent the initial vision for the future of the Ohio Expo Center and Ohio State Fair, which will remain here in the heart of Columbus, its home since 1886,” DeWine said in a news release. “The Ohio State Fair is something to be proud of, and we want to make the guest experience one that is comparable to – if not better than – other best-in-class attractions.”

The vision, which was developed by the Expo 2050 Task Force’s third-party master planning consultant Wellogy, includes a new overall organization of the Ohio Expo Center property, including the renovation, modernization or demolition of several buildings; the addition of new exhibition facilities, parking garages and other areas to enhance the guest experience; and improved access between the Ohio Expo Center and the nearby Ohio History Connection. The recommendations also include the development of a new town square and entertainment pavilion.

“The Ohio Expo Center and Ohio State Fair mean so much to our city, our state, and the agricultural community,” Virgil Strickler, Ohio Expo Center and State Fair general manager, said in the release. “Building on our facility’s unique history here in Columbus with improvements that will accommodate all Ohioans will lead us, our event holders, and everyone who knows and loves the Ohio State Fair, toward a bright future.”

The improvements will benefit the Ohio State Fair as well as many events held at the site throughout the year, such as the All American Quarter Horse Congress, Goodguys Car Show, Ohio Beef Expo, trade shows, consumer shows and more.

“As the largest single-breed horse show in the world and Ohio’s largest single convention event, we applaud the bold leadership of Governor Mike DeWine, the Expo 2050 Task Force and the Ohio Expo Commission,” Scott Myers, CEO of the Quarter Horse Congress, said in the release. “They have crafted a thoughtful, strategic, and transformational plan that will create a world-class venue at the Ohio Expo Center and Ohio State Fairgrounds.”

The proposed enhancements are recommended to occur strategically over a period of several years and do not yet have a specific timeline or estimated cost. The master plan framework will be used by the Ohio Expositions Commission as a guide for future development over the long-term as funding can be secured.