Birmingham Park and Recreation addresses heat concerns from inaugural football classic

BIRMINGHAM, Ala. (WBRC) - Birmingham Park and Recreation addressed fan concerns about extreme heat and other issues during the inaugural Birmingham Football Classic, which took place Saturday at Legion Field.

The game was between Alabama State University and Southern University.

“The city of Birmingham and Legion Field Management take the safety, health, and overall experience of our residents, visitors, student-athletes, families, alumni and guests very seriously,” Birmingham Park and Recreation wrote. “We recognize that the Birmingham Classic was a significant event for Alabama State University, Southern University, their supporters and the Birmingham community.”

Main concerns raised

According to Birmingham Park and Recreation, the main concerns included access to water, extended lines, the extreme heat and the number of people who needed medical attention.

WBRC reached out to Birmingham Fire and Rescue, which said two people were transported and 75 were treated for various illnesses on Saturday. Birmingham Fire and Rescue confirmed it would be accurate to say most of those illnesses were heat-related.

“We understand how these circumstances could have negatively affected the experience of attendees, and we regret that some guests experienced difficulties during the event,” Birmingham Park and Recreation wrote.

Review underway

Birmingham Park and Recreation said it is reviewing the operational components of the Birmingham Classic, including water availability, concession operations, medical response, crowd management, communication, entry procedures and coordination among the city, Legion Field, event organizers and participating institutions.

“The circumstances surrounding a large outdoor event in extreme temperatures require careful planning and contingency measures. The concerns raised in your correspondence will be included in our post-event review as we identify opportunities to strengthen our preparation and response for future events,” Birmingham Park and Recreation said.

Birmingham Park and Recreation said it values the opportunity to host the two schools and wants their experience in Birmingham to “reflect the hospitality and professionalism our city strives to provide.”

Birmingham Park and Recreation said it is gathering information from the teams to fully evaluate what happened and determine what can be improved. The agency thanked people for raising their concerns and said it valued recommendations from attendees.

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