Rhea County fair plans expansion upon 14-acre property

photo A pathway clearing of a once-wooded border showcases Donnie Mickel's house, adjacent to the 14-acre property recently purchased by the Rhea County fair organization in December.

EVENSVILLE, Tenn. - Rhea County Fair organizers recently bought 14 acres next to the fairgrounds in Evensville to allow for expanding the event.

"We're going to have to have more land if we plan to expand the fair," event chairman Harold Fisher said.

He said organizers closed on an $80,000 loan for the property before Christmas, and they plan to review its prospective uses for new events.

Organizers bought the property, which adjoins the rear parking lot of the fairgrounds, to allow for additional parking at upcoming events upon the fairgrounds throughout the year.

Hosting a corn maze and fall festivals for local schools are among ideas organizers will discuss at their monthly meetings.

The fair board received approval last year for an Appalachian Regional Commission block grant, through the Southeast Tennessee Development District, for a roof over the arena.

Fair organizers said they anticipate good community support for upcoming activities.

"Where would we be without them?" Rhea County Executive George Thacker said.

Kimberly McMillian is based in Rhea County. Contact her at kdj424@bellsouth.net.

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