Springfield, IL (CAPITOL CITY NOW) – The Illinois State Fairgrounds has undergone tens of millions of dollars of improvements in the last several years.

That’s according to Illinois Department of Agriculture Director Jerry Costello, who says the most recent of that improvement has been demolishing a long-unusable facility on the grounds.

“Building 29 was torn down this summer, after being unused and condemned since 2012,” said Costello.  “The demolition delivered on a promise made by Governor Pritzker at the ribbon-cutting at last year’s fair.  His promise was to turn that eyesore into opportunity.”

The fair claims that more than $68 million in improvements have been made in just seven years through its own budget.  The state claims nearly $118 million worth of work on roads, sidewalks, the state fair coliseum, and other things, through the Rebuild Illinois capital construction plan.

But the improvements don’t stop there.  Security upgrades are also being made — especially for those attending shows in the Grandstand.

“Last year, we implemented several enhanced security screenings at all Grandstand events, and this year we’re taking another step forward,” said Rebecca Clark, State Fair Manager.  “Following best practices used at entertainment venues all across the country, the Illinois State Fair will implement a clear bag policy for all Grandstand events.  This includes harness racing, concerts, and auto racing.”

Clark says that clear bag can be no larger than 14 X 8, and only one bag per person. She says grandstand event attendees should plan ahead, and even take some extra time before you arrive.

You can find out more you need to know about attending Grandstand events by CLICKING HERE.