OnMain, a joint venture of Premier Health and the University of Dayton, is taking the next step in redevelopment of the former Montgomery County fairgrounds by preserving pieces of the site’s history.
In coordination with onMain, in May Dayton History will relocate horse barn No. 17 to Carillon Historical Park. Barn No. 17 is a stable built in the late 19th century and thought to be the oldest remaining structure at the former fairgrounds other than the Roundhouse.
“Once moved to Carillon Historical Park, horse barn No. 17 will be used to tell the history of the Montgomery County Fairgrounds and the significant events that occurred on that site,” said Dayton History President and CEO Brady Kress. “The acquisition of this barn presents an opportunity to aid in Carillon Park’s fulfillment of its masterplan, and will bridge three themes…early Dayton, transportation, and agriculture.”
Additional historical artifacts from the onMain property were previously moved to the new Montgomery County fairgrounds in Jefferson Township, including the cast aluminum reliefs depicting agricultural life that were part of the main gate.
Other work on the site in the coming months will include the removal of 22 barns and buildings, site grading and clearing of undergrowth. Traffic on nearby streets will not be affected. This work is expected to be completed by fall 2019.
“We have a unique opportunity to create the next chapter in Dayton’s long history of innovation and entrepreneurialism. Our partnership with Dayton History will allow us to connect Dayton’s rich history and its promising future,” said onMain CEO Buddy LaChance. “This is the first step in a thoughtful process to establish a setting to connect people, neighborhoods, businesses and institutions.”
The vision for onMain is that the historic Roundhouse will remain on the property and become an integral feature of the Imagination District. OnMain continues to explore future options for the Roundhouse.
OnMain is widely anticipated to become a signature neighborhood that will bring jobs and opportunities to the area and create a sustainable and inclusive living environment with an emphasis on wellness.
Premier Health and the University of Dayton purchased the 38-acre former site of the Montgomery County Fairgrounds in 2017 and have been working on a long-range vision for the near-downtown property that builds upon their institutional missions and values, promotes economic development, and fosters a unique sense of place that serves broad community interests.
Visit the links below to see more:
