Birmingham Residents Advocate for Handrails at Legion Field
BIRMINGHAM, Ala. — As the annual Magic City Classic approaches this weekend, a community concerns are being raised regarding accessibility at one of Birmingham’s iconic venues, Legion Field. Following a viewer’s inquiry about the absence of handrails in the stadium, local authorities have confirmed that Legion Field, along with several other facilities in Alabama, currently does not meet the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) standards.
According to the 2010 ADA Standards for Accessible Design, all stadiums are required to have handrails installed along the entire length of stairs. Alabama adopted these standards in 2011, yet it appears that improvements have not fully reached Legion Field, prompting city officials to take action.
Progress on Handrail Installation
In the wake of increased public concern, Birmingham Park and Recreation Director Shonae Eddins-Bennett stated that steps toward installing handrails have been initiated. “We’re still working on it,” Eddins-Bennett remarked. “Hopefully with the increase in tailgating, we can actually use those funds to put railings throughout the stadium.”
In what appears to be a response to the growing numbers participating in tailgating activities—where costs are reportedly more than three times last year’s prices—the city is aiming to raise the necessary funds for the installation project. A year ago, the estimated cost to install handrails across the entire stadium was around $750,000.
Implementation Plan and Timeline
During last year’s investigation into the matter, officials shared that in order to comply with ADA regulations, the city is only required to provide handrails for five percent of the seating at Legion Field. The current plan includes a focus on the lower bowl of the stadium.
Deputy Director Ronald Hicks explained, “We only have to do a certain number of railings in order to participate. We won’t just roll it all the way up; it will only be certain ones.” The department is actively in the process of obtaining quotes for installation work, indicating a commitment to moving forward despite prior delays.
Historical Landmark Status and Impacts
Another factor affecting the timeline of installation is the pending recognition of Legion Field as a historical landmark. The city has made formal requests to begin this process since April, hoping to bolster efforts toward funding and compliance.
However, communications with the Alabama Historical Commission reveal that the commission has not yet received a National Register nomination for Legion Field. A spokesperson mentioned that additional information was requested from the City of Birmingham but has not been submitted.
Community Engagement
As the Magic City Classic draws attendees to Legion Field, local advocates continue to raise awareness about the importance of making the stadium accessible to all community members. The absence of handrails poses potential safety hazards, especially for individuals with mobility challenges. The public is eager for an update on the installation plans, highlighting both the pride in the historic venue and the necessity for improvements.
In conclusion, with the Magic City Classic just around the corner, Birmingham residents and city officials alike are expressing a shared vision for a safer, more compliant Legion Field, where everyone has access to enjoy events without fear of injury.
