JASPER, ALA. – The City of Jasper is working with Drummond Company to explore the development of a regional sports complex that would create new recreational opportunities for the community and support economic growth.
A sports complex has been a topic of interest in the Jasper community for many years. Mayor Josh Gates and his administration are pursuing a new opportunity to make that vision a reality through a potential partnership with Drummond Company.
The project is in the development phase, with the City and Drummond Company continuing discussions about the potential partnership and location. The proposed site, west of Jasper near Exit 57 on Interstate 22, presents an opportunity to transform reclaimed mine land into a space for recreation and community connection while supporting strategic westward growth.
On June 16, 2026, the Jasper City Council authorized Mayor Josh Gates to enter into a contract with Sports Facilities Company for preliminary planning and facilitation, including studying the project’s viability and developing financial projections and pro forma. Sports Facilities Company brings experience in the planning and operation of sports and recreation facilities.
At the same meeting, the Council authorized the Mayor to enter into a memorandum of understanding with Drummond Company to explore the potential partnership and support ongoing discussions.
In addition to providing recreational opportunities for local residents, the proposed complex is intended to attract tournaments and visitors from throughout Northwest Alabama and the southeastern United States. Plans for the potential development also include retail, restaurants, and hospitality, creating opportunities for additional economic growth.
“This is a catalytic project that could create new opportunities for Jasper and our entire region,” said Mayor Josh Gates. “Our community has talked about the possibility of a sports complex for many years, and we are excited to take steps toward making it a reality. The potential to provide more recreational opportunities while encouraging future investment and development makes this an exciting opportunity for our city. We are grateful to Drummond Company for its willingness to work with us and support this project and our community.”
“Drummond Company has a long history of working alongside the City of Jasper and other Walker County regions on projects that create opportunities for our communities. From city and county school projects, to automotive manufacturing sitings, to Heritage Industrial Park and Heritage Landing, we have seen firsthand what can be accomplished through strong public-private partnerships,” Drummond Company said in a statement.
“We look forward to exploring this exciting opportunity with the City of Jasper, which has the potential to drive economic growth, enhance quality of life, and demonstrate how responsibly reclaimed mining properties can be transformed into valuable community assets.
“For Drummond, mining reclamation isn’t simply about restoring land—it’s about creating opportunities for what that land can become.”
The City and Drummond Company will continue working together as the project is studied and developed. Additional details will be shared as plans progress.
For more information about the City of Jasper, visit jaspercity.com.
For media inquiries, please contact Tana Collins-Allred, Director of Community and Economic Development for the City of Jasper, at 904.383.2082 or tcollins@jaspercity.com.
