Tails by Rails of Ellard Park — Tails by the Rails overlooks the scenic Norfolk Southern’s Norris Railroad Yard in Irondale. (Jordyn Davis / Bham Now)

Good news for our furry friends!

Irondale’s newest trail, Tails by the Rails at Ellard Park, is now open and ready to explore.

Keep reading for what you need to know.

The renovation of Ruffner Park + Ellard Park

Last year, Bham Now reported the renovation of Ruffner Park in Irondale, resulting in a new baseball field and dog park.

This Saturday marked the Grand Opening Celebration of Tails by the Rails of Ellard Park in Irondale with Mayor James D. Stewart. This free event included free treats for both pups and people, along with a dog costume contest and other entertainment.

The first 150 dogs received a cute “I Love Irondale” bandana.

Dogs’ day off in Irondale

This new addition in Irondale features:

Areas for shade and seating
Customized play equipment
Pavilion for community use
Landscape that utilizes native plants
Separate areas for large and small dogs

The new dog park was designed by Macknally Land Design and provided an intentional layout that is sure to keep your pups satisfied. Plus, the park features a special area named after a beloved community veterinarian, the late Dr. William Weber, brought to fruition by a resolution passed by Mayor Stewart.

“The dog park is the first of our City’s major capital projects to come to fruition, and we are elated to welcome the public to enjoy this new amenity.

In the early part of next year, we look forward to the Grand Opening of our new Ruffner Ball Park. We also expect our new Irondale Public Library to be completed in Fall of 2025.”

Mayor James D. Stewart, Mayor, City of Irondale