Many dog owners were left ‘off-leash’ with no where to take their pets last year after learning the City dog park near Michener Park was going to be closed.
The City is now moving forward with the relocation of the park to the end of Len Thompson Drive in the new industrial area.
Last fall, the eight-acre site was selected after a public input process. The development of the larger dog park will commence this summer with the City estimating it will be open to the public and furry friends this fall.
“We have reviewed the feedback from dog owners who responded during the site selection process, as well as the key priorities in the development of dog parks in other cities,” said Community Services Executive Assistant Maureen MacKenzie.
Some of the amenities already noted by residents in the first set of feedback included proper waste facilities, shade from trees, lighting, parking spaces, a smaller area for shy dogs, hills and paths in the park, agility equipment and pathways leading up to the park.
Already incorporated into the plan is a water feature in the middle of the park for dogs to swim and play. The park itself is planned to be much bigger and also joins the escarpment area near the industrial park, allowing for more on-leash walking spaces.
The City is now asking for more resident feedback in regards to what exactly they would like to see in the new park.
“We would like specific feedback from the public regarding the types of amenities they see as necessary for a well used dog park,” said MacKenzie.
She also added the City is interested in gauging the public interest to see if recycled materials, like old tires, could be repurposed and incorporated into the park as play features for the dogs.
“There may be someone who is willing to donate materials,” said MacKenzie. “We are trying to get the community involved with the park.”
Residents can provide their input into the matter by completing an online survey found at www.lacombe.ca/dogpark_survey.
Residents are encouraged to share the link with family and friends who want an accessible space in the City for their dogs to run and play.
Some of the amenities requested by residents could be added in this year if there is room in the City budget, but not all of them can be immediately granted. Some of the amenities may be added in future years as the park continues to develop.
The survey is available online until June 12th. Paper copies of the survey can be found at various pet stores and vets around the City.
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