September 8th, 2008 by Administrator

In a previous proposals in 2005 to the Jacksonville Parks and Recreation Commission, the Jacksonville Dog Park Committee outlined reasons why Dupree Park would serve as the ideal location for the installation of an off-leash dog park:

-Location
-Size
-Popularity
-Natural Resources
-Parking
-Proximity to the animal shelter

Dog parks are places dogs are allowed to legally run off-leash, and benefit progressive communities by providing:

-A specific area to socialize and exercise dogs in a safe environment.
-Promotion of responsible pet ownership
An accessible place for elderly and disabled owners to exercise their companions
-Promotion public health and safety
-A tool for realistic enforcement of dog control laws, as the same city laws and ordinances would be enforced at the park, such as purchasing city tags for pets. This would increase city revenue.
-Establishment of yet another recreation service to the community.

Families moving into the Jacksonville area from out of state - air base personnel or other - will be attracted to a community that is on the cutting edge of recreation services.

In a second, more specific proposal, the committee outlined exactly what it would take to start a dog park:

-Installation of fencing, a water line and signage
-Installation of waste bags and receptacles
-A change in city ordinance allowing dogs only in the park area
-Fundraising
-Establishment of a dog park association, which would operate under and report to the Jacksonville Parks and Recreation Department and apply to become a 501-C nonprofit fundraising entity.
-Maintenance

LOCATION

A fenced-in area, consisting of two separate sections that would accommodate both large and small breeds, while allowing access for mowing equipment and overflow parking during the annual Wing Ding Festival. The proposed area is surrounded by plenty of ground, which would buffer dog park activity from ball park and residential areas to the north and east.

The area offers both shade and open ground, access to water and adequate parking.

FENCING

The dog park would require about 2,037 feet of 5-foot tall chain link fencing. A total of 6 gates – four small entrance gates in a “vestibule” and 2 large gates allowing vehicular access are included in the design.

WATER

Providing drinking water for dogs is essential. Park department officials estimate a cost of $1,500 to extend an existing water line to the back (north) end of the park, where an outlet would be installed on each side of the center fence.

WASTE CONTROL

Two dog-waste bags and receptacles placed along the center fence for use on both sides of the area. Those items were purchased in the 2005 Parks & Recreation Budget.

SIGNAGE

Signs at the entrance to and within Dupree Park stating that unleashed dogs would only be allowed within the dog park and leashed dogs allowed entering or exiting from the entrance gates.

A sign at the entrance would outline the rules and etiquette of the dog park.

FINANCING AND REVENUE

The cost to develop the dog park’ would be financed by the general funds of the Parks & Recreation’s Budget. The dog park committee would generate funds towards purchase of additional amenities such as benches, tables, lights and dog recreation equipment. Various community fundraisers, private and corporate contributions and a vigorous publicity campaign would be essential to the project.

The dog park would be a source for additional revenue through rentals for dog –related events at this location. Visitors to the dog park from inside and outside the community would spend tax dollars at local establishments such as restaurants, pet stores, and convenience stores.

MAINTENANCE AND PATROL

A once-weekly walk-around to remove trash, check for feces, and check the condition of the fence would take no more than about 20 minutes, and be done by either volunteers or community service workers. The Jacksonville Animal Shelter would include the dog park area as part of its routine Dupree Park patrol.

The basic items and procedure outlined above would get the dog park up and running and on its way to being another progressive addition to the park system and the city of Jacksonville.

The Jacksonville Dog Park Committee would like to thank the commission for its consideration and encourages its members to attend a local dog park to get a firsthand look at how these successful projects have become positive enhancements to their communities.