3 ways Irondale is growing in 2026

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Often after city elections, it can take a while to align on new faces and priorities, but not so in Irondale.

On the heels of big business announcements—new Costco, anyone?—there’s a lot of excitement in store for Irondale residents, business owners and visitors in 2026.

We got a chance to learn about what’s motivating Mayor Stewart and the city council, and were pleased to discover there’s an underlying message of unity that will drive the City of Irondale forward for years to come.

1. Education leads the way in Irondale

Students aren’t the only ones who strive to get good grades: Mayor Stewart set a goal for improving scores to all As and Bs on the Alabama State Education Report Card. In addition, the city has commissioned a feasibility study to explore the creation of its own Irondale school system in the future. Currently, schools are a part of the Jefferson County system, but that doesn’t stop the city from doing its part—Mayor Stewart delivered over $130,000 to Irondale schools in December.

“Our children aren’t statistics. They’re torches to be lit.”

_{City of Irondale Mayor James D. Stewart, Jr.}

Irondale also regularly supports clubs and athletic programs from ROTC and FBLA to wrestling and football, and for several years now, the city has shown appreciation to teachers with a direct deposit into their classroom account for supplies. This year, each teacher received $183.

2. Irondale’s business scene is thriving

The Costco announcement was huge, but it’s not all that’s coming to boost business in Irondale.

In addition to welcoming the nation’s third-largest retailer in 2028, Irondale is also working to expand industrial jobs in the city and supporting small business owners, too. We previously shared how Irondale is welcoming new businesses, and that only continues to grow for 2026.

What’s next: Mayor Stewart will give his annual “State of the City” address to the Irondale Chamber on Thursday, February 12th, and he always brings big news for the business community. Tickets available here.

3. Irondale knows how to enjoy its beautiful setting

For a city its size (more than 13k residents as of the last report), Irondale boasts an impressive amount of green and recreational spaces.

Heading into 2026, Beacon Park is getting a glow-up thanks in part to a grant from Blue Cross Blue Shield. Visitors can expect a new walking track, a new playground (accessible for children of all abilities to enjoy) and a fitness court. Plans for Heritage Park are still in the works, but you can find more info here.

“Eco-tourism allows Irondale to protect what makes us special while inviting others to experience it.

By investing in our natural spaces, trails and waterways, we’re growing our economy in a way that honors our environment, strengthens community pride and builds a sustainable future for generations to come.”

_{City of Irondale Mayor James D. Stewart, Jr.}

How Irondale plans to move forward in unity in 2026

_{Irondale’s City Councilors David Spivey (orange shirt) and Robert Box (grey shirt) join Mayor Stewart (center) at a recent city event; newly-elected City Councilor Erin Arnold (far right) are uniting to move Irondale forward. (City of Irondale)}

A lot of these changes are happening because the mayor and council are working with a more unified vision. Mayor Stewart recently likened this new momentum to rowing a boat together, encouraging his fellow citizens to deliver together to make Irondale even better.

“Your part matters. Grip your oar and row with us. Each oar is different. Each oar is necessary. All of us must pull in the same direction.Your role in this journey is crucial.

Whether you’re a student, a parent, a business owner or a resident, your contribution is vital to our success.”

_{City of Irondale Mayor James D. Stewart, Jr.}

If you want to keep track of all of the fun events and changes happening in Irondale in 2026—and learn how to get involved—download the city’s free app from the Apple or Android store.

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