By Chris Basinger, Staff Writer
IRONDALE, Ala.–This Saturday is set to be a day long remembered by furry friends throughout Irondale as the city opens its newest dog park–Tails by the Rails at Ellard Park.
Landscaping crews put the final touches on the park ahead of its opening. Chris Basinger/Trussville Tribune
Community members and their pets are invited to join Mayor James D. Stewart, Jr. and the Irondale City Council at the free event, which will kick off at 10 a.m. this Saturday, Oct. 26 at Ellard Park.
Tails by the Rails features two separate play areas for large and small dogs, various shaded spaces and seating, and a public-use pavilion.
Customized play equipment including ramps, tunnels, and hurdles have also been installed within the gated play areas for dogs to enjoy.
The first 150 dogs at the grand opening celebration will receive a special “I Love Irondale” reflective bandana collar.
There will also be coffee and donuts for people and treats for pups.
One of the bandanas that will be given away at the grand opening.
Dogs who attend the opening can also compete in a costume contest for a chance to win the prestigious Irondale Pup Cup Trophy.
Local businesses Infinity Dog Training and Ashley’s Loving Touch Pet Grooming will also perform demonstrations at the event.
In addition to the ribbon cutting, a sign will be unveiled to dedicate the play area for large dogs in memory of beloved community veterinarian Dr. William Weber reading “Dr. Weber’s Paw-some Place.”
“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,” Mayor Stewart said.
The large dog play space. Chris Basinger/Trussville Tribune
“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.”
The name of the dog park was voted on by the citizens of Irondale via an online survey.
Of more than 500 votes cast, Tails by the Rails received the popular vote as the park provides an elevated view of Norfolk Southern’s Norris Railroad Yard.
The park was designed by Macknally Land Design and constructed by RCI & Associates at a cost of $851,650.00.
