(RALEIGH) -- Big changes are in store for visitors to the North Carolina State Fair, a year after 25 fairgoers were sickened by e-coli. An investigation linked the illnesses to a livestock exhibit.

This year, the animals will be kept behind barriers so visitors cannot touch them, and some foot traffic will be routed around the barns. Agriculture Commissioner Steve Troxler said he wants the public to enjoy and fun and safe environment.

"I bring all of my grandchildren to the State Fair and the last thing that I would want to do is put them in a position that they could get sick, so we're doing everything that we possibly can do to minimize rick, and that's what it's about," said Troxler.

Some food vendors will also be moved away from the barns, and parents will be discouraged from using strollers that could spread germs around the fairgrounds.