$6 million to modernize Lake Placid Horse Show Facilities
Peru Gazette File Photo
Governor Kathy Hochul today announced a $6 million State investment to replace the Long Building at the North Elba Showgrounds in Lake Placid, ensuring the continued success of the internationally recognized Lake Placid and I Love New York Horse Shows. The Governor made the announcement during the 55th annual horse shows, which generate $17.9 million in economic activity and support 164 jobs in the Adirondack region.
“I’ll always remember visiting Lake Placid as a kid and experiencing the wonders of this community, and it’s those experiences — shared by residents and tourists alike — that make investments like this one in the North Elba Showgrounds so important,” Governor Hochul said. “This facility will create jobs and spur economic activity for generations of North Country residents, and I look forward to seeing the community grow alongside it into a brighter future.”
The funding, which will be administered by the Dormitory Authority of the State of New York (DASNY), will enable the complete replacement of the aging Long Building, a central facility used for spectator services, catering and event operations during the two-week horse show. The modern facility will provide improved amenities, accessible features, and flexible space to support year-round community programming including Camp Placid, a youth summer program.
The North Elba Showgrounds have hosted the Lake Placid and I Love New York Horse Shows for 54 years, with the event spanning the July 4 holiday period. Recent facility assessments determined that without significant infrastructure improvements, the venue risked losing its ability to attract top-tier competitors and maintain its international standing in equestrian sport.
The horse shows represent a significant economic engine for the Adirondack region, generating $17.9 million in total economic impact annually. This includes $13.9 million in direct spending, $2.8 million in state and local tax revenue and support for 164 total jobs. Visitors spend $12.2 million on lodging, dining, retail and entertainment throughout the region during the two-week event.
The project is part of a comprehensive two-phase renovation of the showgrounds designed to meet international competition standards. Phase One, completed this year with $2.1 million in investments from the Town of North Elba and Lake Placid Horse Show Association, included arena improvements, new all-weather competition footing, and infrastructure upgrades. Phase Two is anticipated to begin following the conclusion of this year’s horse shows in July, with the new Long Building planned for completion ahead of the 2026 season.
The Long Building serves multiple functions beyond the annual horse shows. Throughout the year, it hosts community events and provides essential infrastructure for other activities at the showgrounds, including serving as a staging area for Olympic Regional Development Authority events at the nearby ski jumps, home to the 1980 Olympic Torch.
The new facility will feature modern amenities including accessible restrooms, a commercial kitchen, emergency shelter capabilities and flexible space designed to accommodate both large-scale equestrian events and smaller community gatherings. The building will be constructed to current code standards with enhanced fire safety features and ADA compliance.
Posted: June 29th, 2025 under General News.