A Piece of Rochester History Has Now Been Torn Down

Rochester, MN (KROC-AM News)- A structure that stood at a Rochester attraction for over 80 years is now gone.

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Its demise comes after it was deemed unsafe last Spring during routine, state-mandated testing done on seating structures every 10 years.

Crews began taking it down last month, leaving a void where the structure that was visible from one of Rochester’s busiest roads once stood.

Olmsted County Fairground Grandstand Demolished

Last May county officials announced a state inspection of the grandstand at the Olmsted County Fairgrounds determined the structure was “not in compliance with structural inspection requirements."

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“Over the years, the county has invested money to repair and maintain the grandstand. However, age, exposure to weather, and the natural wear on materials have contributed to the deterioration of the 85-year-old structure," Olmsted County Board of Commissioners Chair Gregory Wright said at the time of the failed inspection announcement.

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Officials also determined last year that repairs to improve the structural integrity of the 85-year-old grandstand were not feasible.

Olmsted County photo

That determination led to the Olmsted County Board of Commissioners to approve spending $60,000 from the county’s contingency fund to rent temporary bleachers that were used during last year’s Olmsted County Fair.

The county is considering replacing the now-demolished grandstand with a community gathering space. The potential space would allow for the construction of temporary seating for county fair events.

Olmsted County

Officials are set to begin exploring the option later this Spring. A timeline for making a final decision on the grandstand replacement has not yet been set.