The City of Prescott is inviting residents to help shape the future of the historic Prescott Rodeo Grounds — home of the world’s oldest rodeo.
An open-house style community meeting kicks off the rodeo/fairgrounds master plan process on February 2nd from 4 to 7 p.m. at the Center, formerly the Adult Center, at 1280 East Rosser Street.
City staff and GH2 Architects — hired last fall to lead the effort — will discuss site conditions, the planning process, past plans, and a vision for upgrades. The 43-acre grounds, used for the annual rodeo, county fair, equine events, and more, feature aging infrastructure dating back to the early 1900s, including a 1933 grandstand. Issues include outdated utilities, parking, drainage, accessibility, and impacts on nearby neighborhoods like noise and traffic.
The project is bolstered by $15.3 million in state funding redirected to the city in 2025 — after an initial allocation to a nonprofit was challenged and ruled unconstitutional as a public gift. Those funds will support essential infrastructure improvements.
Community input will guide modernizations to boost safety, event operations, visitor experience, and economic impact while addressing local concerns.
This is a key chance for Prescott residents to weigh in on preserving and enhancing this community landmark.