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It has been 14 years or more in the making, but Stanly County citizens will soon be able to enjoy agricultural events at the new livestock arena.

More than a place for farm-related events, the new arena features an air-conditioned exhibit area which can seat approximately 180 people.

Additional fencing was recently approved by county commissioners for the arena to better contain livestock or other animals.

Chris Lambert, facilities and operations manager for the county, said the new arena will celebrate a grand opening Aug. 17 as part of the annual Agri-Civic Day.

Lambert said the arena has generated interest for people wanting to put on events.

The 120-foot by-200-foot arena can host smaller rodeos and bull riding and horse shows, but Lambert said there were no plans for cow shows which would compete with the Stanly County Livestock Market in Norwood.

Lambert said the Agri-Civic Center, built in 1988, “was built with an agricultural component needed.”

“The whole goal of (the new arena) is literally to showcase the agricultural component of Stanly County.”

He said high school groups like 4-H and Future Farmers of America will have somewhere to showcase animals with the new arena.

Commissioners recently approved new audio and visual equipment, costing approximately $270,000.