YAKIMA, Wash. – The Yakima State Fairgrounds is set for a significant transformation with over $5 million allocated for new developments. The projects include a brand-new RV park, a sprint boat race track, and roof repairs for the livestock barn.
During a press conference, several local and state officials gathered to announce these enhancements. Kathy Kramer, the Fairgrounds President and CEO, highlighted the positive impact of these projects. Kramer explained that the developments aim to bring visitors from across the country to Yakima Valley, emphasizing the economic benefits.
“As we create events, it’s also about treating the economic impact,” Kramer stated. “These developments will bring visitors from across the country who may not have otherwise discovered Yakima Valley. And guess what? They bring their dollars with them.”
The RV Park will feature 50-amp power, water, sewer, and ADA-compliant showers and restrooms. County Commissioner Kyle Curtis expressed optimism about the RV park’s potential.
“The RV park is now more appealing and accessible for events throughout the year who choose to utilize our state fair park,” Curtis said. “These renovations now also put our RV park on the map for potential regional and national RV rallies, which will bring new economic opportunities to our valley.”
In addition to the RV park, the sprint boat track is set to join the Pacific Northwest circuit after its inaugural race. Dan Morrison, a 19-year veteran of the sport and designer of Yakima’s track, shared his enthusiasm.
“This boat will pull eight and a half GS really easy in a corner, and it’s hard to comprehend what that looks like or feels like until you do it a few times,” Morrison said. He added, “We go right, left and all around and do it as fast as you can. And so when you start seeing that, that’s a whole ‘nother level of excitement.”
Reservations for the RV park are now open. The inaugural race on the speedboat track is scheduled for August 16 and 17.
