Reviewed by: Caleb Turrentine
$27M River Run Park now open in Northport [PHOTOS]
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Big news for baseball: River Run Park officially opened in Northport this August.
The park is a major addition to the growing Northport Shore development. The 36-acre baseball and softball complex features nine all-turf fields, including two championship-level fields designed for collegiate softball.
Built to accommodate large tournaments and local practices alike, the facility promises to become a hub for both competitive and recreational play.
Northport Shore Project
River Run Park is part of the larger 300-acre Northport Shore project, which will also bring volleyball, pickleball, basketball, cheer and dance spaces to the area.
Restaurants, retail shops, hotel spaces and other amenities are expected to follow, which would transform the riverfront into a busy destination.
City leaders estimated that River Run Park will attract around 530,000 visitors a year and generate $68 million in annual revenue. Buffalo Rock Pepsi has also signed on as the park’s official beverage sponsor.
A Grand Opening to Remember
The opening ceremony drew a large crowd on Saturday, August 16, including Mayor John Hinton, the city council, city administrator Glenda Webb, city engineer Tera Tubbs and state leaders Representative Ron Bolton and Senator Gerald Allen.
The event was emceed by Chris Stewart, the voice of the Crimson Tide, who welcomed the guests to Northport’s newest venue.
During the festivities, Tuscaloosa County High School’s baseball team was honored for winning the 7A state championship, while the school’s softball team was recognized for its runner-up finish.
City engineer Tera Tubbs noted that heavy rainfall and other obstacles made finishing the park in time a challenge, but community support made opening day possible.
“This facility is more than just fields and buildings, it’s a testament to what we can accomplish when our community comes together with a shared vision.”
Council President Christy Bobo (Tuscaloosa Thread)
Guests also enjoyed a Pepsi Ball Catch, live music and a nighttime show of drones and fireworks to cap off the day.
Upcoming events at River Run Park include:
- River Run Open: September 19-21
- Northport Fall Invite: September 26-28
- The Crimson Clash: October 3-5
Have you checked out River Run Park? Let us know by tagging The Bama Buzz on Instagram, X, Facebook + LinkedIn.
