MADISON, Ala. — The Rocket City Trash Pandas play their inaugural home opener on May 11 and fans of all abilities will be able to enjoy the amenities at Toyota Field.
"We're an all-inclusive venue," said VP of Marketing, Promotions and Entertainment Lindsey Knupp. "Wheelchair accessibility is all throughout the ballpark. It is a 360-degree ballpark. There are stairs out in left field but there's also an elevator that anyone in a wheelchair could use to get up and continue through the concourse level and continue all the way around the ballpark."
Going to a ball game is an exciting experience, but for people with mobility issues or physical disabilities, getting to your seat could present a major challenge. Toyota Field says they've taken that into consideration.
There are seats on the main concourse that have extra distance between them that make it easier for visitors who are in a wheelchair to enjoy the game with their loved ones.
Knupp says they have parking accommodations as well.
"We will do everything in our power to get everyone who needs handicap parking as close as we can to the gates and in those areas to make it more convenient for them.," said Knupp.
Knupp went on to discuss other accommodations at the ballpark.
"As you go behind the rock porch in right field, there are stairwells but there's also a ramp going all the way around to where the Margaritaville will eventually connect. So, there will be attendants and our staff members throughout the ballpark helping with any of the questions that anyone might have and we'll have the guest services station behind section 5 for anyone who has questions throughout the game," said Knupp. "Coming up to the concession stands, all of that. It is accessible for anyone of any ability."
Regarding food allergies, Toyota Field Executive Chef Ryan Curry says they've taken steps to ensure fans have options they can eat.
"The thing is, they're individually packaged so we're not selling bulk peanuts roasted on the concourse," said Curry. "The cross-contamination with peanuts will not be an issue… We have gluten-free hot dog buns and hamburger buns we get from them. We do have some gluten-free dessert choices as well. Some gluten-free cupcakes in the stands."