NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WTVF) — The Tennessee State Fair Commission voted on Friday that a search should begin for a new site that can accommodate the future growth and goals of the State Fair.
The fair has been held at the Nashville Fairgrounds since 1906. However, this acreage is now being developed for a new major league soccer stadium as well as retail and residential spaces.
Metro Nashville still contends that the area and facilities that are reserved for the State Fair in the redesign of the Fairgrounds are adequate for the annual fair festivities, the State Fair Commission and the nonprofit responsible for producing the Fair each year (The Tennessee Fair Association) do not agree.
Jeff Aiken, a member of the State Fair Commission and president of the Tennessee Farm Bureau said that a principle mission of the Fair should always be showcasing the state's agricultural industry. He went on to say that with the plans now set for the Nashville Fairgrounds he doesn't believe that there is "adequate space" to execute this mission now or in the future.
Some of the concerns raised by members of the State Fair Commission involve parking, a location for the carnival and midway, and having enough space and facilities for farm animals and agricultural exhibitions.
The commission also asked recently-appointed Tennessee Agriculture Commissioner Charlie Hatcher, to convey to Governor Bill Lee its interest in finding a new location for the Fair.
The Tennessee State Fair will be held in September this year.
