Dogs in Normal Heights got a new place to play Saturday.
Councilmember Todd Gloria cut the ribbon for a new off-leash dog facility located in Normal Heights’ Ward Canyon Neighborhood Park Saturday.
The temporary facility is measured at 20,500 square feet and includes dog friendly ground covering, benches, shade structures, and pet waste dispensers. There are separated fenced facilities for large and small dogs.
Councilman Gloria acted to include $100,000 in the City budget for the park after community members addressed the need for one.
The cost of the improvement is estimated at nearly $8 million. The project includes the dog park, 1.54 acres of new park, a community garden and a basketball court.
“I can’t remember the last time a park amenity this impactful was built so quickly,” Councilmember Gloria said. “Today’s ribbon cutting should serve as a sign to the residents of Mid-City that the City is serious about investing in Ward Canyon Park and I will continue to advocate for funding the permanent expansion.”
Councilmember Gloria said this interim solution does not lessen the need for more permanent expansion. He is calling for phase one of the expansion to be included in the mayor’s fiscal year 2017 budget.
