Community Raises Concerns Over Proposed Changes to North Florida Fairgrounds

Event organizers worry development plans could limit community access and event space at the historic fairgrounds.

Published on Feb. 11, 2026

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Residents and event organizers in Tallahassee, Florida are voicing concerns over proposed changes to the North Florida Fairgrounds, which has long served as a hub for community events and gatherings. The county is considering development plans that could reduce the size of the fairgrounds and limit parking access, raising fears that this could disrupt the many events and activities that take place on the property.

Why it matters

The North Florida Fairgrounds have been an integral part of the Tallahassee community for decades, hosting the annual county fair as well as numerous other events and gatherings. Any changes that limit access or event space at the fairgrounds could have a significant impact on the community's ability to come together and celebrate local culture and traditions.

The details

Proposed changes to the fairgrounds include the potential development of a hotel along Monroe Street, which supporters say could spur economic growth in South Tallahassee. However, event organizers like Tiffany and Ricky Ardley, who have hosted large community events at the fairgrounds for years, worry that reducing the size of the property and shifting parking could disrupt how the space is used. North Florida Fair Association Executive Director Miranda Muir says the current proposal would significantly limit the fairgrounds' flexibility to host a variety of events.

  • The North Florida Fairgrounds have hosted the annual county fair and other community events for decades.
  • Proposed changes to the fairgrounds, including potential development, have been under discussion in recent months.

The players

Tiffany and Ricky Ardley

Longtime Tallahassee residents who have hosted large community events at the fairgrounds twice a year for nearly a decade.

Miranda Muir

Executive Director of the North Florida Fair Association, which has participated in discussions about potential changes to the fairgrounds.

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What they’re saying

“Using this space is essential not only for us but for the community.”

— Tiffany Ardley (WTXL)

“Taking away half of our acreage and then moving parking down past the stadium means that our guests would have to walk a lot farther. You know, we have everything from the fair where you're in your tennis shoes and and shorts and t-shirts and out enjoying, and you can walk a little bit further.”

— Miranda Muir, North Florida Fair Association Executive Director (WTXL)

What’s next

The North Florida Fair Association says it is open to further discussions with county leaders about the proposed changes, but believes the current plan would significantly limit the fairgrounds' flexibility. The organization has indicated it would be open to taking back control of the land if the county is not interested in continuing the current arrangement.

The takeaway

The North Florida Fairgrounds have long served as a vital community hub in Tallahassee, hosting the annual county fair and numerous other events that bring residents together. Any changes that reduce the size or accessibility of the fairgrounds could have a significant impact on the community's ability to gather and celebrate local culture and traditions.