Some trees are being cut down in BԪַBԪַ City Park to make room for a new off-leash dog park and exercise area.
Three of the trees that face the chop are said to be invasive species, while the other six have been declared hazardous in the estimation of the municipal arborist.
The new dog run is being developed in the south-east corner of the popular downtown park, right near the intersection of Harvey Avenue and Abbott Street. The off-leash space will include dog-friendly features such as a balancing beam, mounds and tunnels, and a little bridge.
“Our community values spaces where all residents, including our canine companions, can enjoy the outdoors,” says Geert Bos, a city manager. “We look forward to seeing both pets and their owners making the most of this new facility once itBԪַ open.”
Tree-cutting will begin soon with work on the fancy dog run expected to start in March. Total cost of the project is currently estimated by the city to be $750,000.New trees will be planted to replace the ones being cut down.
City officials say in a release that the area of the park where the dog run will be built is an “empty space”. They also say more uses of the park in distince areas were supported by the public in a 2013 consultation process.