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Does the Arizona State Fair need a new home? Gov. Ducey says he's open to suggestions

Posted at 12:25 PM, Mar 15, 2017
and last updated 2017-03-15 21:02:06-04

The Arizona State Fair has a long history here in Arizona.

It was created in 1884 and has been held at the Arizona State Fairgrounds, its current home near 19th Avenue and McDowell, since 1905.

Each year more than a million people make their way to the fairgrounds for the rides, deep-fried food and addicting carnival games.

However, it also has had its challenges. Some have complained about its location, the facilities, the food options and entertainment.

So, is it time for the Arizona State Fairgrounds to be updated, and perhaps move somewhere else in the Valley?

Arizona Gov. Doug Ducey told us in an exclusive interview that he's heard the conversations and is open to the idea of making changes.

"We're going to entertain, or we're going to listen to, whatever people say that's within reason, and I think that's within reason," Ducey said. "But what are the ideas? Where would it be and where would people want to house it or see it?"

Ducey said he visited the Iowa State Fair, which is known for its foods "on-a-stick" and famous "Butter Cow," and thought about what improvements could be brought to Arizona.

"You look at the Phoenix Open. You look at Spring Training. You look at the mega events that we have here. We have the fair ever year. The government has a hand in the fair. How can we do it better?" asked Ducey.

Beginning now, the Governor's Office wants to hear your thoughts about the fair. What changes should be made? Should there be changes?

The State Fair Questionnaire can be found here.

The governor said he would like to see some changes put in place by 2018.

The 2017 Arizona State Fair will take place Oct. 6-29.