Dog Park Supporters Push On

Many residents thought a dog park on the Winthrop/Revere line on DCR property next to the marsh would be a good choice, but the Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR) thought it was too close to the Belle Isle Marsh, an area of environmental concern.

Thursday night, April 12,  residents seeking to have a dog park in town will meet at 7 p.m. in the Harvey Hearing Room at Town Hall to discuss potential new locations. Dog park proponents met with the Town Council DPW Subcommittee and DPW head Steve Calla about finding a suitable place two weeks ago. Calla said he supports the idea, but he also have questions about maintenance.

The dog park group has been working for four and a half years to find a place for a park.

Also looking into the matter are Town Councilors Michael McDuffee, Mike Lucerto, and Nick LoConte.

“The whole committee will have a chance to weigh in.

Other sites have been suggested at Veterans Road and Wheelock Street.

Wendy Corkhum said she wasn’t upset at losing the Belle Isle Marsh site. People were concerned about ticks and other varmets.

“Ticks are everywhere if you check your dog before you bring them in you’ll be fine,” Corkhum said.

Corkhum shared a wish list for a future dog park. So far, supporters have raised $10,000 and they’d like to raise $6,000 more.

“We want the space the be as large as finances will allow. The size of tennis courts would be good. With one-third for the small dogs and two-thirds for the large dogs,” she said. In addition she’d like to see a six-foot fence with a double gated system to prevent dogs from escaping. Pea stone surface with good drainage. Water, shade trees. Shade structure. Disposal for dog waste and solar power lighting.

A site off Kennedy Drive was also mentioned but it also was too close to the cemetery and not ADA compliant.

Joanne Hillman said she’s an advocate for fencing off an area in Hannaford Park. Coughlin Park has been ruled out because of the flight path of the airplanes.

“Once we get the location we’ll get the funding,” said Kevin Corkhum. “It’s going to benefit the town.

Follow the progress of the park on Facebook at The Winthrop Dog Park Project.