GEDDES, N.Y. -- Thanks to a new pedestrian overlook on Bridge Street, passersby can now see the New York State Fair without actually going in. It's a perfect view of the festivities, as long as you're not interested in seeing any of the rides, exhibits, animals, vendors, concerts or people at the Fair.

That's right, the new overlook offers a sprawling view of a parking lot, some trees and the backs of two Fair buildings. If you strain, you can make out the very top of the Ferris Wheel and the edge of the new RV park.

Onondaga County spent $637,000 to build the observation deck and nearby stairs and ramp on Bridge Street. The stairs take fairgoers from the street to a pedestrian-only Fair entrance at the Pan-African Village.

Some fairgoers have questioned the purpose of the overlook on Bridge Street. One State Fair blogger called it a "puzzler."

The overlook is a brick patio with several benches, a railing and a lamp. It can be accessed from the sidewalk just north of the railroad bridge.

Martin Skahen, chief of staff for Onondaga County Executive Joanie Mahoney, said views from the overlook will improve as the Bridge Street project progresses. He also said the county has received great feedback about the stairs and new pedestrian gate.

Money for the observation deck came from state funds awarded to Onondaga County for improvements to Solvay and the Western Shore area. That money is separate from the $50 million invested at the fairgrounds itself.

Acts II Construction Inc., a construction company from Gouverneur, N.Y., completed the project.