In defense of the Allentown Fairgrounds’ appearance
As president of Lehigh County Agricultural Society, I write on behalf of the board of directors in response to Tony Iannelli’s Sept. 8 “Talking Business” column in which he called for more visual appeal to the fairgrounds that “look a bit tired” so that it has “the future it deserves.”
We are sorry that Mr. Iannelli thinks the fairgrounds “look a bit tired” and believe that we need to paint a different picture from our point of view.
As we embark upon our 168th year of existence, we are proud of our accomplishments and — thanks to our strategic plan — look forward to a future of bright promise. Some of our improvements to the infrastructure are not visible to the casual observer.
Since 2013 we have replaced the roofs on all fairgrounds buildings and many of the wooden grandstand seats, updated our electrical systems and installed new lighting in Agri-Plex, performed water and sewer upgrades, and replaced the old chain-link fence with an attractive wrought iron fence with brick pillars and lights to make the perimeter more welcoming and inviting. We also repaved many acres of our parking lots.
Speaking of parking lots, we provide parking for Allen High School, Lehigh Valley Health Network and Phoebe Ministries. We allow the annual Halloween and St. Patrick’s Day parades to be staged on our fairgrounds. The city of Allentown is permitted to use our infield parking for snow emergencies. Both Allentown and Lehigh County have used the Agri-Plex as an evacuation center when a disaster has occurred.
The fair may come but once a year, but it’s important to note that the fairgrounds are an economic generator year-round. We host trade shows and special events virtually every week at the Agri-Plex — everything from model trains to antique arms to dog shows.
These shows, plus the Allentown Fairgrounds Farmers Market, draw an estimated 600,000 to 700,000 people each year. Plus, the Agricultural Society owns the property that The Main Gate, Pines Dinner Theatre, Fairgrounds Hotel, Ritz BBQ and the two banks sit upon. Imagine what our attendance numbers would be if we included all visitors to those establishments.
This year, over 300,000 people attended the Allentown Fair. These folks viewed over 10,000 exhibits, saw over 1,000 animals and watched entertainment at the grandstand each evening. They learned where their food comes from and the importance of agriculture through hands-on experiences.
The commonwealth of Pennsylvania estimates that between lodging, services, food and retail expenditure, local fairs annually generate upward of $126 million in fair-related spending.
There are some who question the relevance and value of a fair in this day and age, when less than 2% of the population is involved in production of agriculture. The Agricultural Society believes that our fair is more important than ever. As our population continues to shift to a more urban demographic, it is our responsibility through the fair to remind the public of the role that agriculture plays and will continue to play in our economy and daily lives.
Our fair not only promotes agriculture, but also supplies jobs; it gives our youth, especially those who participate in 4-H programs, a showcase to exhibit the fruits of their labors, whether it be livestock, crops, clothing or newer projects like photography or scrapbooking. These young people learn hard work and effort still matter while gaining major life skills such as communication and responsibility.
We invite you to join with us. Volunteers are always needed and very welcome.
If you have never visited the fairgrounds, please make it your mission to do so at least once. Make a resolution to attend next year’s fair. You will discover that the fair embraces the future while honoring our past.
The Lehigh County Agriculture Society’s mission is one of continued improvement and advancement.
Our pace might not be as fast as some would like, but we believe slow and steady wins the race. It has served us well for 168 years and will serve us well as we embrace the future one step at a time.
Beverly Gruber is president of the Lehigh County Agricultural Society.