Fairgrounds are important community facilities that provide a unique setting for cultural identity, education and recreation. However, most fairgrounds are used just a few times a year and carry a high cost burden. Local and county governments are searching for opportunities to make better use of these underutilized assets. How can local governments identify opportunities for cost savings while increasing the quality of service? What partnerships and tools do we need to unlock the potential of our fairgrounds? Associate Professor and Extension County Community Development educator Melissa Kono and Extension Land Use and Community Development Specialist Todd Johnson will provide a practical approach for improving the utilization of fairgrounds. Ms Kono will introduce a fairgrounds utilization planning approach that inventories typical fairgrounds uses and informs a fairground program of potential uses that will increase the level of service and reduce cost burden. Mr. Johnson will discuss how enhanced public engagement methods empower community stakeholders to reimagine their fairgrounds and discover opportunities for improvement.