On Wednesday, July 15, the Government of Nova Scotia officially announced that major renovations to the C.A. Douglas Grandstand at the Nova Scotia Provincial Exhibition, which is home to Truro Raceway, are currently underway.

The renovations are part of the Government of Nova Scotia's multi-million-dollar investment to improve infrastructure, get Nova Scotians back to work, and help get the economy moving again.

The province's $230-million infrastructure upgrade includes the $4.63-million project at the Nova Scotia Provincial Exhibition, located in Bible Hill, Colchester Co.

The Government of Nova Scotia has announced that major renovations will be made to the structural, electrical, and ventilation systems of the C.A. Douglas Grandstand, which hosts harness racing and many community events. Other buildings on the exhibition site will also receive upgrades.

Exhibitions, fairs and harness racing have been part of the traditional way of life in Nova Scotia's rural communities for more than 100 years.

“Our exhibitions and fairs are amazing and unique events that show off the best of rural living and our agricultural heritage,” said Nova Scotia Agriculture Minister Keith Colwell. “The improvements will rejuvenate the provincial exhibition site and make it a great place to hold events and see a race.”

"The Nova Scotia Harness Racing Industry Association is excited to hear the announcement for the upgrades to the C.A. Douglas Grandstand at Truro Raceway," said Nova Scotia Harness Racing Industry Association President Debbie Francis. "This is a positive investment for the harness racing industry, and we look forward to what other opportunities this could lead to."

The renovations are underway and are expected to be completed by March of 2021.

(With files from the Government of Nova Scotia)