Nostalgia runs deep at the Park County Fair. At the annual fair this week, you can count on longtime traditions — carnival rides, the demolition derby, the junior livestock sale, blue-ribbon worthy handiwork and plenty of fair food.

Fittingly, this year’s theme is “Where Traditions Remain and Memories Begin.”

But among the old favorite events and familiar sites, we’re glad to see new improvements around the fairgrounds.

Electrical upgrades, fresh paint and new bleachers are just a few of the updates this year. Fair crews and county staff work hard to ensure the fairgrounds are up-to-date and ready for fair week, and their efforts are appreciated.

A bare slab of concrete stands as a reminder of improvements yet to come.

The deteriorating large exhibit hall was torn down last year, and the vacant lot currently serves as seating space during the fair week. Eventually, a new building will replace it.

The Park County Commission recently approved a grant application for federal funding toward a new multipurpose building. Replacing the aging complex of exhibit halls, this new building will be an asset for Park County year-round — not just during fair week.

As envisioned, the proposed $4 million structure will house community events, conventions, wedding receptions, fair exhibits and other activities.

The county continues to gather residents’ opinions for the new multi-use facility in an online survey. Visit www.parkcountyfair.com, and tell the county what you want to see in a new building — a commercial grade kitchen, audio/visual systems and spectator seating are among the options.

Funding for the new building remains uncertain, but it’s good to see county leaders taking a steady pace to ensure the structure meets a variety of community needs.

It’s exciting to look toward the future of the Park County Fair while enjoying ongoing traditions.