Stage being renovated for W.C. Handy Fest

SHEFFIELD — Stage renovations at Riverfront Park face a fast-approaching completion deadline prior to the W.C. Handy Music Festival.

With “Riverside Jamz at Riverfront Park” — one of many live-music events taking place in the Shoals as part of the larger music festival — scheduled for July 24, councilmembers agreed Monday to cover the cost of labor for the stage renovation project.

“The stage is in bad shape,” Council member John Webb said. “If we’re going to do something, we’ve got to act on it tonight.”

He said discussions regarding the stage began last Wednesday. The item was added to Monday night’s agenda during the work session immediately prior.

The city approved $3,000 for labor. The Sheffield Redevelopment Board will cover the cost of materials.

“It’s time for an upgrade. We need the stage to be in good shape,” redevelopment board Chair Tori Bailey said.

She said historically W.C. Handy festivities have been held on the Riverfront Park stage; however, the last time the redevelopment board had utilized the stage was for the “Sunday Sunsets” live music series in October 2024.

Redevelopment board member Mike Davis added the underutilization was due to the stage’s condition.

Davis said the project is not a heavy undertaking. The primary task would be installing a new top on the stage.

Webb added the decking would be replaced with plywood.

Work began Tuesday with the unloading of materials.

Webb, Bailey and Davis agreed the project should be the completed prior to the July 24 concert.

Webb said the improvements to the stage are a temporary fix.