Throughout the summer, the MFTHBA showgrounds will see some improvements.  “The MFTHBA is unique in owning its own showgrounds,” shared Dr. Joyce Graening, MFTHBA President.  “As the showgrounds gets older there are some needed repairs.  These repairs will ensure that our showgrounds are available for the generations to come.”

“The Grounds Committee has a comprehensive list of items that need to be repaired in the coming years.  The Board requested that they prioritize these improvements,” shared Dr. Graening.

Over the next couple months, the following items will be addressed:

• New concrete on the south side of Barn 1 and north side of Barn 2: These areas of concrete posed a health and safety risk with considerable cracking and uneven ground.  In addition, many of the stall doors could not open because of the cracking.  Barn 2 was the very first barn built at the showgrounds.  Barn 1 along with barns 3-5 followed.  These initial barns were built between 1976 and 1977.  No records of repairs to the concrete being made since their original construction could be located.  Because of where the damage was located and the significance of it for both barns, it was determine that a patch or small repair was not possible.  Therefore, on both barns, the entire side needed to be torn out and new concrete poured.  This would provide the best long-term solution. Since this was a significant project, it was put out publicly for bid with the bid being sent directly to numerous construction companies in the area as well as being posted on the MFTHBA website and social media sites.  This bid specified that the project must be completed by early in August.  In addition, the bid was very specific on the standards to be met.  Only one bid was received following the open bid period.  This bid was reviewed and was determined to meet the specifications required.  The bid was from Cantell’s Concrete Construction.  This bid was accepted by the Board.  This contract was for $9100.  Work began on this project on July 18.
• Update of the Men’s and Women’s Showers in the Versatility Bathrooms: Those that attended the Spring Show will remember that the men’s restroom at the versatility arena was closed.  A leak in this restroom had caused mold within the showers.  While it couldn’t be corrected in time for the Spring Show, the Board is committed to having these restrooms open and safe to use for the World Show and Celebration.  Dan Tucker Construction LLC, the company providing maintenance on the showgrounds, will be completing this work.  This improvement will include correcting the leak and installing concrete block.  This complete repair will be $4500. Work began on this project on July 18.
• End Barn Lights: A number of the end barn light fixtures were not functioning at the Spring Show. Our maintenance contractor has done an assessment of which ones needed replaced.  These lights are being purchased and will be replaced by a MFTHBA member who is a certified electrician.  Utilizing a volunteer will save on installation costs.  The new light fixtures will not exceed $550.

The Grounds Committee is also organizing a volunteer work day on July 31.  During this event, volunteers will work on painting and other maintenance projects.  Anyone interested in volunteering should contact the MFTHBA office.

In addition, the Trail Committee is working on repairs to the trail obstacle course.