Irondale announces renovation of Ruffner Park + new dog park in 2023

Two Irondale parks are getting a facelift this year! Ruffner Baseball Park will be receiving upgrades and renovations, while Ellard Park will be transformed into a new dog park. Keep reading for all the details!

Upgrades to Ruffner Park + Ellard Park

• Ruffner Park — 301 Ruffner Rd, Irondale, AL 35210

Located on the northern boundary of Irondale, Ruffner Park is a scenic 20.3 acre baseball and softball complex with six lighted baseball fields, public restrooms, a picnic area and barbecue pit. Once the renovation is complete, Ruffner Park will feature:

• Three top-of-the-line synthetic turf fields (one 300-foot field and two 225-feet fields)
• Pavilions
• A playground
• Concession stands

The Ruffner Park renovation will go out for bid in July, with construction expected to start in late 2023. 

Ellard Park — 1st Ave N, Irondale, AL 35210

In addition to Ruffner Park, the City of Irondale will be constructing a new dog park at Ellard Park. Currently, the 9.46-acre Ellard Park is equipped with picnic tables and small barbecue pits, but is not lighted. The new dog park will feature shaded areas, separate areas for large and small dogs as well as dog activity stations.

With City of Irondale plans to break ground on the dog park in Spring 2023, and expects to open the park in late Fall 2023. The total cost of both park renovations is approximately $10 million.

“We are excited to be moving forward with plans to renovate Ruffner Park and complete construction of a new dog park. Our citizens have been asking for these types of amenities, and we are ready to bring those dreams to life and create more spaces to build community and further Irondale’s brand as a hub for parks and green spaces.”

Irondale Mayor James D. Stewart, Jr.

Excited to see the progress of these two parks in Irondale? Follow us @bhamnow to stay up-to-date on the latest!