Jackson County Fairgrounds!
Jackson County Fairgrounds Project – McKee, KY
Exciting things are happening in Jackson County! Thanks to the dedication of local leadership and the strong advocacy of State Representative Timmy Truett and Senator Robert Stivers, our community has secured $4 million in state funding to develop a brand-new recreational complex and fairgrounds in McKee, Kentucky. This transformational project will create a central hub for recreation, entertainment, and community events for generations to come.
A Vision for the Future
Jackson County leaders, including Judge Shane Gabbard, Representative Truett, and community partners, have long recognized the need for a multi-purpose complex that could serve as both a fairgrounds and a year-round recreational destination. Plans under consideration include:
- Baseball & softball fields
- Amphitheater for concerts and events
- Pavilion for the Jackson County Fair & community gatherings
- Walking tracks & cross-country trails
- Pickleball courts & outdoor recreation areas
- Large-scale parking areas
- Space for rally car shows, festivals, and more
This vision builds on community feedback gathered during multiple public meetings, where residents shared their “wish list” for facilities that would enhance local quality of life and attract visitors to the county.
Committee Leadership & Community Representation
To ensure the project reflects the voices of the entire county, the Jackson County Fiscal Court created and appointed a special committee tasked with meeting regularly and providing recommendations regarding the details of the proposed Jackson County Park / Fairgrounds Project. Members were chosen to represent a wide range of community interests, including agriculture, recreation, tourism, business, and civic engagement.
Committee Members:
- Brian Murray – JC Fair Board
- Kathy Spurlock – JC Off-Roaders
- Erik Hubbard – Backroads of Appalachia
- Shane Gabbard – JC Fiscal Court
- Greg Lakes – JC Tourism
- Ashley Wagers – JC Public Library
- Keith Gabbard – Kiwanis
- Rodney Chrisman – JC Community Foundation
- Devonna Hisel – JC Saddle Club
- Judy Schmitt – JC Grant Writers
- Tim Truett – State Representative
Project Updates & Progress
- Land Purchased: Approximately 100 acres off McCammon Ridge Road have been officially secured for development.
- Site Preparation: The committee has already cleared land for access and begun the first stage of development.
- Planning & Design: Nesbitt Engineering, Inc. is drafting the official site design, supported by a $10,000 ARC mini-grant awarded to the Fiscal Court.
- Community Engagement: Ongoing public meetings ensure county citizens, business leaders, and tourism representatives have a voice in shaping the project.
What’s Next?
The immediate focus is on infrastructure—developing access roads, water, electricity, and parking. From there, the county will prioritize key features that can be developed with current funding while continuing to pursue additional grants and partnerships for expansion.
Why It Matters
This project is more than just fields and facilities—it’s about creating a gathering place for Jackson County. A place for families to play, athletes to compete, musicians to perform, and neighbors to celebrate together. It’s about investing in the health, pride, and future of our community.
What can you do now?
Sponsor a Disc Golf Hole – Support Progress in Jackson County!
Be part of Phase One of our community development project by sponsoring a hole on the brand-new disc golf course at the future fairgrounds site! For just $500, your business or organization can sponsor a hole for 2 years, with a $250 renewal option after that.
Your support helps fund exciting additions like a ballfield, walking path, pavilion, and more—all aimed at growing opportunities for recreation and tourism. Sponsors will be recognized at the course and in promotional materials.
Let’s grow together—one hole at a time!
Follow this page for updates on designs, committee recommendations, construction progress, and upcoming events at the new Jackson County Fairgrounds