Buchanan County has taken a monumental stride towards realizing a long-awaited vision for its community, officially selecting a contractor for the ambitious $1.6 million fairgrounds arena. This pivotal decision marks a significant step in developing a state-of-the-art venue poised to become a central hub for livestock showcases, agricultural education, and diverse public events, ultimately enriching the local fabric.
The chosen firm, St. Joseph-based Al J. Mueller Construction Company, has been awarded the design-build contract to construct a substantial 160-by-250-feet arena in Easton, Missouri. Their selection underscores a commitment to local expertise and resources, laying the groundwork for a facility designed to meet the specific needs and aspirations of Buchanan County residents and agricultural enthusiasts.
This versatile arena is envisioned as a year-round facility, capable of hosting a broad spectrum of events. From essential 4-H and FFA livestock competitions that nurture young talent and agricultural skills to larger public spectacles like rodeos and car shows, the venue promises to be a dynamic space for entertainment, education, and community engagement throughout every season.
Scott Nelson, Buchanan County Presiding Commissioner and a key member of the Fairgrounds Board, articulated the pressing need for such a facility, stating, “We’ve had a lot of information that said all we need is a venue. We don’t have one, so we’re making one.” He expressed optimism, echoing the sentiment of “Build it and they will come,” anticipating significant potential for the new structure to draw visitors and events.
Longtime farmer and Buchanan County Farm Bureau president Tim Gach, also a Fairgrounds Board member, emphasized the project’s profound importance, calling it a “long-awaited and much-needed development.” Gach highlighted the decades the county has spent without a proper fairgrounds facility, underscoring its crucial role for future generations of agriculture and livestock enthusiasts, with 4-H and FFA facilities being “front and center.”
While significant progress has been made, the arena’s construction is contingent on the pending sale of necessary land adjacent to the former East Buchanan Middle School building. This school property, recently acquired by the Fairgrounds Board, will serve as a nearby ancillary hub for various community and fairgrounds-related activities, complementing the new arena once the land deal is finalized.
A significant highlight of Al J. Mueller’s proposal was their commitment to partnering with Varco Pruden, a St. Joseph company, for local steel manufacturing. Commissioner Nelson lauded this aspect, noting, “So 60% to 70% of the cost of the $1.6 million is the materials. So now we have all those dollars staying in St. Joseph. And I think that that is a big deal,” emphasizing the substantial positive Economic Impact and local investment this Construction Project represents for the region.
County leaders are resolute in developing a sustainable and versatile facility that supports a wide array of livestock events and shows throughout the year, pairing seamlessly with the classrooms and other facilities within the middle school building. This comprehensive Community Development approach aims to foster a strong partnership with organizations like 4-H FFA, relying on local volunteer efforts to ensure the arena’s long-term success and provide invaluable opportunities for youth development and agricultural growth.
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