County Expo Center is getting face-lift

Eventually, the 23-acre site will undergo massive infrastructure changes. For now, a limited amount of money will keep the upgrades cosmetic.

"We're losing business right now due to the Expo Center being in a state of disrepair ... we want it to be more competitive and attract new trade shows," said Mark Church, president of the Board of Supervisors.

Trade shows bring visitors to the county for three or four days at a time. They spend an average of $230 on hotels, restaurants and services, Church said.

With businesses shying away from the pricey convention halls in San Francisco and San Jose, Church believes San Mateo County can provide an enticing option.

"Many groups are looking for affordable alternatives ... so there is definitely an untapped market," Church said.

The Expo Center hosted gun shows until last year when weapons and ammunition were banned from county property.

The Expo Center might also one day be home to entertainment or sporting events after telescopic risers to allow stadium seating are installed.

The marquee is already being installed and painting should follow soon. The total overhaul will take about a year but shouldn't disrupt the county fair held Aug. 13 to Aug. 22, Church said.

Officials hope the renovations will help boost fair attendance which has fallen short of expectations for two decades. Last year, 120,060 visited over the course of 10 days - a decline of 16.4 percent. In 2002, 142,997 people came, less than the 146,700 in 2001. In 2002, the fair generated about $1.6 million including $20,000 from horse racing. That amount was similar to the previous year.

This year's theme, Tropical Paradise, will echo throughout events and activities at the 70th annual County Fair. New offerings include a high diving act, authentic luaus and carnival rides provided by the company that organizes the Super Bowl, Church said.

Michelle Durand can be reached by e-mail: michelle@smdailyjournal.com or by phone: (650) 344-5200 ext. 104.