Hello everyone!
On Wednesday, May 6th, 2015 at the NYS Fairgrounds in Syracuse, NY, there will be a meeting regarding possible improvements to the fairgrounds. The state is looking to potentially allocate fifty million dollars to this project, which would include major improvements to equestrian facilities. As of right now, the idea is to remove the current grandstands, which will leave over 70 acres of free space to work with. Plans would include a brand new equestrian facility (potentially climate controlled for year-round use), an indoor and stabling for 1,000 horses.
The NYS Fairgrounds is home to many shows in our region, Welsh or not. As far as Welsh shows go, we have NYS Horse Breeders, NEWPA and NYS Fair currently on the list of gold pointed shows for 2015. A revamp of the facilities could mean big things for the Northeast and open up opportunities to have a really high class, multi use horse facility for our shows, especially larger shows like Eastern Nationals etc. Depending on the vote for the American National location, this could potentially be another quality site like Tulsa for a large, beautiful show in the future.
So, where do you come in?
The meeting for this allocation will be held at the NYS Fairgrounds in Syracuse, NY on May 6th, 2015. The group is asking that anyone willing to attend this meeting in support of the monetary allocation wear equine related attire to designate you as a supporter. In addition, polite, friendly attitudes are a must. It is very important that the equine community shows their support of a new venue such as this one.
If attending the meeting is not possible for you, please consider writing a letter to Mr. Troy Waffner:
Mr. Troy Waffner
Director, NY State Fair
581 State Fair Blvd., Syracuse, NY 13209
Or email him at: troy.waffner@agriculture.ny.gov
If you are interested in finding out more information, Mr. Waffner can be reached during business hours at: (315)-487-7711 x 1200
A recent article about the project can be seen here: http://www.syracuse.com/politics/index.ssf/2015/03/drawings_of_mahoneys_reimagined_new_york_state_fair.html
Thank you!
Best,
Kristy M. Wilkinson
