More than $257,000 in provincial funding has helped the Kenyon Agricultural Society (KAS) upgrade electrical systems and improve accessibility at the Maxville Fairgrounds. The completed projects were celebrated on Wednesday, October 14, at the fairgrounds
An Ontario Trillium Foundation (OTF) capital grant of $200,000 supported electrical upgrades across much of the grounds, while a grant of more than $57,000 from the Ministry for Seniors and Accessibility funded a new paved pathway connecting accessible parking with buildings, washrooms, and outdoor event areas.
“The OTF investment has enabled us to modernize aging water lines, improve electrical capacity, and add new lighting to ensure our facilities are safely supporting the growing number of events, visitors, and community programs we host here each year,” said KAS President Lyndon Conboy.
Conboy said the pathway has made the grounds easier and safer to navigate for people of all ages and abilities. It is already being used for walking, biking, and other outdoor activities throughout the year.
“These projects are about much more than pavement and electrical systems; they are about creating accessible spaces where families can gather, volunteers can contribute, exhibitors and entertainers can showcase their talents, and our heritage can continue to thrive,” Conboy said.
Glengarry-Prescott-Russell Member of Provincial Parliament Stéphane Sarrazin said the fairgrounds “hold a special place in our region,” citing their role in agricultural exhibitions, youth activities, and community gatherings.
“These improvements are about more than infrastructure. They are about ensuring that people of all abilities can participate in events and traditions that bring our communities together,” Sarrazin said.
North Glengarry Mayor Jamie MacDonald called the fairgrounds “the most hallowed grounds in North Glengarry,” citing the Glengarry Highland Games and the Maxville Fair.
Conboy credited government funding and volunteer contributions with making the projects possible.
“Support from the government enables us to complete projects that we cannot afford to do ourselves, and when volunteers invest their time and energy, it becomes a community achievement, not just an organizational success,” Conboy said.
