The Costa Mesa-based OC Fair and Event Center will be experiencing radical change over the next decade, after its governing body approved the first phase of an eight-pronged plan to renovate the property.
“We are on solid financial ground and ... projects will bring the property new opportunities to serve the community, generate family fun and fulfill our mission,” OC Fair & Event Center CEO Michele Richards said in a Jan. 31 press release.
The cost for the renovations are approximately $229 million and will roll out in eight phases:
Phase 1
- Expansion of the property’s administration building to add meeting rooms and archive and storage areas
- Start/Completion date: 2023–2024
- Cost estimate: $25 million
Phase 2
- Addition of two permanent restroom facilities with showers and storage
- Start/Completion date: 2024–2025
- Cost estimate: $7.7 million
Phase 3
- Demolition and rebuilding of Centennial Farm and construction of an additional new multipurpose center for farm, livestock, and agricultural programs
- Completion date: Between 2026 and 2027
- Cost estimate: $14.6 million
Phase 4
- Additions to the show buildings for farm and livestock programs
- Start/completion date: 2027–2008
- Cost estimate: Approximately $3 million
Phase 5
- Upgrades to the Pacific Amphitheater, including renovations to its outside plaza, structural replacement, and repairs and landscaping
- Completion date: 2029–2030
- Cost estimate: $22.6 million
Phase 6
- Upgrades to the Action Sports Area, including bench seating and replacements
- Start date/completion: 2030–2031
- Cost estimate: $3 million
Phase 7
- Renovations for the Agriplex, including the demolition and reconstruction of old barns, offices, and storage sheds and the addition of a new show ring, pavilion, and exhibit space
- Start date/completion: 2031–2032
- Cost estimate: $86.6 million
Phase 8
- Property upgrades such as a decorative and functional security fence with gates as well as landscaping
- Completion date: 2033
- Cost estimate: $67.9 million
