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World Police and Fire Games to bring thousands to Birmingham; county urges public support
Summary
Organizers and commissioners said the World Police and Fire Games will bring about 7,500 athletes from dozens of countries to Birmingham and encouraged residents to attend free events and volunteer; the county posted a schedule at bhm2025.com.
Cathy Boswell, identified in the meeting as an organizer for the World Police and Fire Games, told the Jefferson County Commission that the international event will bring thousands of first responders to the Birmingham area.
"Right now, we have over about 7,500 athletes registered to come to the city of Birmingham to compete across the Birmingham and Greater Birmingham area," Boswell said. She said 72 countries are represented and that event organizers expect large contingents from some nations. Boswell said the opening ceremony will be held Friday at Legacy Arena at 6:00 p.m. and that all events are free to the public. She provided the event website, bhm2025.com, for schedules and volunteer information.
Commissioners described the games as an opportunity for local economic activity and community pride. Boswell said organizers counted more than 625 athletes from across Alabama and that the sheriff's department alone had "over 40 athletes"; she also said participating athletes are expected to generate hotel room nights across the region. "They're over about maybe 15,000 nights across key hotels," she said, naming downtown and suburban properties as likely beneficiaries. The commission encouraged residents to attend events, volunteer, and show support for local teams.
The remarks were delivered during commissioner announcements and event promotion; no formal county vote or new funding was recorded in the meeting. For schedules, volunteer sign-up and event details, commissioners referred attendees to bhm2025.com.
