Sheridan hopes climb for indoor arena - KOTA Territory News

Sheridan hopes climb for indoor arena

During the summer months, the Sheridan County Fairgrounds' arenas are bustling with activity, but they sit dormant during the long winters.

The county fair board wants to change that by putting a cover on the fairgrounds' smaller arena.

"Take that second arena, turn it about 90 degrees, and then put this facility on top of it.  Car shows could be held up there, barbecue contests could be held up there," said board chairman Steve Eliason.

The board will need funding first, the estimated cost sits somewhere between $800,000 and $900,000.

"We're going to look at grants and donations.  We have a Sheridan County Fairgrounds Foundation that we're very interested in using to try to help fund this facility," said Eliason.

The board also needs support from the county commissioners since the county owns the land.  The board hopes the plan it gave the commission at a joint meeting will address the county's questions.

"How's it operated in the long-term?  Is there a viable financial plan or will they require funding from the county or other sources to make it go?" said Sheridan County Commissioner Steve Maier.

Although Maier and the commission believe this arena could provide an economic boost if built.

"I think it could really provide some new kinds of activities for certain that we're just not capable of hosting at this point, said Maier.

Eliason thinks that with county and community support, construction on the arena is about one to two years away.