GADSDEN, Ala.– The Etowah Public Shooting Range will be closed through the fall as it undergoes extensive renovations, according to the Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources.

The range, operated by the department’s ADCNR Wildlife and Freshwater Fisheries Division, is set to receive major upgrades to all existing facilities, along with the addition of a new 50-yard pistol and rifle range.

Once renovations are complete, officials said the Etowah facility will become one of only three public shooting ranges in Alabama staffed by certified range personnel.

Planned improvements include construction of a new 10-position covered rifle and pistol range, a rebuilt 100-yard range with 12 shooting positions, and an enhanced pistol range with 10 stations. When completed, the upgraded facility will be able to accommodate up to 30 shooters at one time.

A new 3,000-square-foot building will also be added to the property. The structure will host hunter education courses, Firearms 101 classes and other training programs, with seating capacity for up to 150 people.

The Etowah range is currently one of 13 public shooting ranges operated by the division and is among the most heavily used in the statewide system. Officials said transitioning to a staffed format is expected to improve safety, maintenance and the overall experience for visitors.

Renovation work will also address longstanding drainage issues at the site through significant dirt work aimed at improving water runoff and accessibility.

Funding for the project includes federal grants made possible through the Pittman-Robertson Act, which is supported by excise taxes on firearms, ammunition and archery equipment. Local matching funds were provided with support from the Etowah County Commission and the Etowah County Sheriff’s Office.

Officials said the upgrades are designed to expand access and provide improved training opportunities for recreational shooters and hunters throughout the region.