Crews Work On Preparations For 2005 State Fair

Weather has delayed some of the preparations for the

2005 State Fair

, but organizers say they will be ready for opening day.

This year, there will be something new at the State Fair for everyone. Construction workers are putting the finishing touches on a 50,000-square-foot exposition center. The facility will house horticulture exhibits, along with sheep and goat show areas.

The Midway will be set up on a new paved area at what used to be the racetrack infield. This year, it will boast 120 rides. Close to 100 workers are on the job, getting the grounds ready, and more will be added in the coming days.

Anyone who has ever seen (the fairgrounds) knows the transformation it goes through for the fair," said Heather Overton, spokeswoman for the state Agriculture Department. "It's really just amazing how much different it looks at fairtime."

The State Fair runs from Oct. 14 to Oct. 23.