Though there may be improvements in available transportation, as suggested in State Fair Hound’s Sep. 26 post, Travel Channel, many people will continue to walk the middle section of the Fair, where the midway runs along between Broadway on one side and the RV park on the other. The addition of more oases with shade, seating and amenities is needed and The Hound has a suggestion. Most of the rest stops this year were tables with umbrellas, which is fine as far as it goes. Bigger, sturdier structures would be a good idea, not only for the protection and comfort they provide, but to give that area a classier, neighborhood look.
Picture wooden pavilions like those in state park picnic grounds, covering tables along with snack or drink vendors and possibly some entertainment. Maybe some clever designer could make them easily assembled and removed to maintain the flexibility that the Fair cherishes.
That same concept may be a good idea for some the food vendors who occupied tents this year. Sure, they can do business under a canopy, but rows of tents give the feel of a second-rate county fair. Sandwiched between the high-tech midway rides and the lovely permanent buildings, they just looked a little shabby. The Hound wouldn’t be against the idea of building permanent stands, two or three under one roof, as modeled on Restaurant Row. It’s very expensive, but may be worth some money, especially if helps to keep established vendors who are willing to make long-term investments in their annual businesses.
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