PARKS & RECREATION

<< CONTINUED FROM PAGE 14 and pickleball programs, as well as the Parks Maintenance and Parks and Recreation offices.

Featuring a regulation-size football/soccer field, eight tennis courts, nine ball fields that are adaptable for baseball or softball, and 11 pickle ball courts—all with synthetic turf—as well as a beach volleyball court, outdoor basketball courts, a putting green, two concession stands, a playground, and an events center. “There’s something for everybody, boys, girls, and adults, of all ages,” says Mayor Hogeland.

He notes that, during the week, Bill Noble Park is a “community park based on community needs. For years, I had people coming to me because, for 50 years, the boys played at Bill Noble and the girls played at Luman Harris, another of our parks in town, thus splitting up the family unit [when siblings played at different parks].” The dream—now realized—was to have one park where both boys and girls could play their games.

“On weekends, the intent is to flip the switch and turn [the park] into an economic development machine by attracting travel ball teams from all over the southeast for tournament,” says Mayor Hogeland. In 2023, the park will host 40 tournaments. “It’s a very busy place.” As travel ball continues to sweep the country, the city sees the opportunity for Bill Noble Park to put Gardendale on the map as a premier place to go [for tournaments].

Moreover, notes the mayor, “we wanted a place where we could welcome teenagers who needed a place to hang out at night and on the weekends. Now, parent after parent says their teens live at the park. It’s a safe environment, close to home, and they can have a good time.” Of course, a facility of this size takes a lot of upkeep, and he notes that the city didn’t have the staff to efficiently run a park of Bill Noble’s magnitude. To solve that problem and keep Bill Noble in excellent condition for the community, the city engaged the help of Sports Facilities Companies (SFC), which also manages the Hoover Met, as well as many other large parks across the country. “Our staff works with SFC to create the environment we’re seeking,” says Mayor Hogeland. “It’s just a great spot for families to go.”

Clemons Complex

Mayor Hogeland says Clemons Complex (named after former Mayor Kenny Clemons, 1996-2008) is nearing completion of a $3 million update project that was started many years ago. Located off one of Gardendale’s main thoroughfares, Fieldstown Road, the Clemons Complex has soccer and flag football fields, a dog park, disc golf course, Boy Scout hut, batting cages, a walking track, and the Gardendale Urban Trail System (GUTS) for mountain biking. A playground, Celebration Park, was added in 2007, and in 2008 the Splash Pad opened, a popular attraction for residents. The complex hosts both the Gardendale youth and

CONTINUED ON PAGE 17 adult soccer programs, the youth flag football program, and numerous disc golf tournaments. Fun fact: The park is a participant in the America in Bloom program and has been recognized for its beautification initiatives, including planting close to 2,500 crape myrtles.

Luman Harris Park

Located off Pineywood Road, Luman Harris Park is named for the Gardendale native and former Atlanta Braves manager. Conveniently located south of Tarrant Road and just a mile north of Highway 31, the park includes softball fields and the shaded Raymond G. Doss Playground of Miracles, which is handicapped-accessible and perfect for families to enjoy on the weekends.

Mini Park

A “pocket park” according to Mayor Hogeland, the Mini Park, is located off Tarrant Road on Keith Circle and offers a quiet, shaded playground and basketball court.

Beatrice Johnson Park

Located on New Castle Road, this park includes a pavilion, picnic tables, and grills, along with a handicappedaccessible playground designed for children ages 5-12.

Gardendale Elementary School Playground

Like other schools in the county, Gardendale Elementary School was in desperate need of a new playground; however, funding was not available for it. The City of Gardendale stepped in and met this need by funding a new playground for GES. According to the North Jefferson Post, “The whole playground was redesigned with bright colors, quality gym equipment that meets all safety standards, and enough playscape to provide calisthenics for all ages.” During school hours it is in constant use, but on nights and weekends, it becomes a public playground where families can go and spend the day.