The Warren County Board of Supervisors is hoping to revive the historic Warren County Fairgrounds property as county officials look for new uses for the idyllic 22-acre site along the Schroon River.
Warren County recently put out a “request for proposals” (RFP) seeking ideas from individuals or businesses who would be interested in leasing or renting the property, located off Schroon River Road in the town of Warrensburg.
Owned by the county since 1826, the Fairgrounds has had a variety of uses over the years, most recently by the annual Warrensburg Bike Rally, Warren County Youth Fair and a company that offered upscale summer camping known as “glamping.”
County leaders believe the picturesque property, minutes from the Warrensburg business district, has more potential.
It includes a stage, three pavilions, restroom facilities, barns and parking as well as open acreage and Schroon River access. The site is 22 acres, the Fairgrounds portion about 11 acres.
The goal of the new RFP is to find a new tenant or tenants, or series of events, so the property can generate more revenue. Full season, partial season and one-day events will be considered through the RFP process.
“The Warren County Fairgrounds are a public asset, and we believe they could be better utilized to promote economic activity and provide enjoyment to residents and visitors alike,” Warren County Administrator Ryan Moore said. “As we emerge from the COVID-19 pandemic, we will take every step we can to rejuvenate our local economy and the Fairgrounds will play an important part in those efforts. We invite any and all who have ideas for the Fairgrounds to step forward and offer them. Let’s think outside the box and have some fun in reimagining this asset.”
Warren County Public Works Superintendent Kevin Hajos noted that the Fairgrounds’ location in the southern Adirondacks, just north of Lake George, puts it close to tourist destinations and population centers.
“It is an easy route from the interstate and includes some semi-secluded acreage next to the gorgeous Schroon River,” Hajos explained.
For more information on the property, check out this link on the Warren County Department of Public Works website.
Those who are interested in potentially using the site are asked to respond to the RFP by February 25. For more information, email Julie Butler, Warren County’s Purchasing Agent, at butlerj@warrencountyny.gov.