The first phases of the Fair’s Master Plan have begun as the Board and management of the Orange County Fair & Exposition Center implement improvements that will meet the growing needs of the community.

Already in full swing, the first phase of the Master Plan involves grading and construction of a new parking area west of the Equestrian Center (EQC). The existing EQC, including stalls, trainer areas and riding arenas is being reformatted, and the area for boarding and training horses is now located on the eastern 7½ acres of the property. In addition, one of the Fair buildings has been relocated to the livestock area where it now serves as the classroom building and headquarters for The Ranch After- School Program.

Other changes scheduled to take place are as follows:

• Renovation of the Pacific Amphitheatre and possible removal of the earthen berm surrounding the structure is a key component of the Master Plan. However, before a final decision is made on removing the berm, extensive research and sound tests will be undertaken.
• The Fair is working with the City of Costa Mesa to create an overall plan for storm drain improvements along Arlington Avenue, which includes clarifying the run-off water on the property prior to water reaching the storm drain.
• The four entries to the Orange County Fair & Exposition Center will receive landscaping improvements including the relocation of the Main Gate electronic reader board, and the addition of a monument reader board near the entrance on Fairview.
• The final stages in the Master Plan initial implementation strategy involve the construction of a new exhibit building with a commercial kitchen, and the construction of a covered breezeway linking two existing exhibit buildings.
• Architectural improvements are also planned for all of the property’s five exhibit buildings, while landscaping, paving and lighting improvements are planned for the Main Mall area.