UPDATE : September 16 at 8:00 p.m.

Ground has been broken for the much-anticipated upgrades at Benton Franklin Fair and Rodeo's McDaniel Arena.

The ceremony this afternoon marked the start of construction on the arena's grandstands. The project aims to double seating capacity from 3,000 to 6,000 with a new grandstand structure.

Modernizing restroom facilities and enhancing public access to key amenities are also part of the plans. The south side of the arena, known as Over the Chutes, will remain in place.

The upgrades will improve air and sound quality, addressing wear and tear from decades of use. The arena is expected to host larger scale events by 2026.

KENNEWICK, Wash. – Benton County is inviting the community to a groundbreaking ceremony to mark the beginning of construction on

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