Wyoming State Fairgrounds & Event Complex Releases Expanded Master Plan
For the past year, a dedicated team has worked collaboratively to shape the next phase of planning and development for the Wyoming State Fairgrounds and Event Complex. The newly released expanded Master Plan represents the eighth Master Plan in the Fair’s 120 year history and builds on the progress made since 2020—continuing a long-standing commitment to reinvesting in facilities that serve Wyoming communities year-round.
At one point in its history, the Fairgrounds accommodated up to 60 structures simultaneously, ranging from stalls and storage sheds to large equine and multi-purpose facilities. Today, the complex supports more than 400 events annually in addition to hosting the Wyoming State Fair.
Since the release of the 2020 Master Plan, 23 major projects have been completed, with several additional initiatives, including the Dairy Barn and Silver Arena, advancing through the Level I and Level II state processes for potential Level III construction funding. Notable completed projects include the Fort Fetterman remodel, demolition of the condemned Fort Washakie building, and replacement of the Rodeo Office and Crow’s Nest.
WSF Board Chair Shawn Steffen reflected on the progress made since the last Master Plan, “I was on the board when the 2020 Master Plan was released, and it’s been incredible to see those projects come to life. The improvements made over the past six years have strengthened daily operations, increased fairtime capacity, and elevated the entire grounds. I’m excited to see this next chapter begin.”
Wyoming State Fair General Manager Courtny Hinds shared, “Our traditions are timeless, but the infrastructure that supports them must evolve. This Master Plan ensures we are investing in fairgrounds that honor our heritage while creating the capacity, safety, and functionality needed for the future.”
The Process
The planning team prioritized projects that support long-term sustainability while preserving the Fair’s historic character.
The team behind the updated Master Plan includes the Wyoming State Fair Board, WSF General Manager Courtny Hinds, WSF Operations Supervisor AJ Deines, Project Manager with the State of Wyoming Construction Department Ryan Scranton, Jared Hoffman with Plan One Architects, Chip Overton of K/O Fairground Planners, along with additional stakeholders and supporting partners.
Ryan Scranton, Project Manager with the State of Wyoming State Construction Department, shared insight into the planning process, “My role has been connecting the technical and visionary sides of this project. Every decision is grounded in real operational needs. By involving the right partners early, we’re ensuring future projects are realistic, sustainable, and built to serve Wyoming long-term.”
The Approach
Following meetings with a wide range of community and statewide stakeholders, the Master Planning team completed a comprehensive inventory of the Fairgrounds, identified priority projects, and conducted facility assessment evaluations. Using these findings, the team began drafting recommendations with careful consideration of operational needs, infrastructure conditions, and long-term sustainability, ensuring proposed improvements are both practical and aligned with the Fair’s mission.
Jared R. Hoffman, AIA, with Plan One Architects, emphasized the forward-looking vision of the plan, “The Master Plan focuses on strengthening facilities, expanding year-round programming, and enhancing the visitor experience—ensuring the Fair remains a vibrant, welcoming, and economically sustainable destination for generations to come.”
Highlighting the broader impact of the plan, Chip Overton of K/O Fairground Planners stated, “This Master Plan is about more than upgrades—it’s about unlocking what’s possible. By modernizing infrastructure and improving accessibility, the Fairgrounds can attract new events, welcome larger crowds, and continue serving as a cultural and economic anchor for Wyoming.”
The newly released expanded Master Plan sets a clear path forward, honoring more than a century of tradition while positioning the Wyoming State Fairgrounds & Event Complex for continued growth, innovation, and community impact. To view the expanded rollout of the Master Plan visit our website at WWW.WYStateFair.com!
For media inquiries or interviews please contact:
Kota Provence | Wyoming State Fair, Marketing and Communications