Interview: Lewis County Legislator Ian Gilbert talks proposed grant that would assist Lewis County Fair Grandstand restoration

LOWVILLE- Lewis County Board of Legislators are considering a grant that would go towards the restoration of the historic grandstand at Lewis County Fairgrounds.

According to District Four Legislator Ian Gilbert, the ballpark figure is right around $100,000. "This is just a number that has been proposed so far, so it could be less, it could be more," Gilbert told us.

"This was something we felt comfortable doing, again because it is money that has been collected over what we budgeted."

With a record of showing a consistently higher sales tax revenue, the county plans on organizing this grant from its coffer.

According to the Lewis County Fair, the project isn't all about the appearance - it's about safety and structural integrity.

"Many lower beams on the east side of the grandstand will need to be replaced," the fair board wrote in a letter to the Board of Legislators.

"In addition to the beams, the decking of the walkway needs to be restored. A new drainage system under the walkway will also be needed. All new work will need to be painted and cables will need to be installed to hold the structure together. Powder-post beetles, while not a concern to people, have been discovered and will need to be treated to ensure the integrity of the building for years to come."

The next legislators meeting is aimed for Tuesday, March 7. 

Listen to our latest on-air coverage here:

Image by Brian Trainor.