Work on the proposed leash-free dog park on Beaverdams Road is moving along steadily and the city hopes to break ground on the project in the spring.
As ThoroldToday reported, a Thorold family is generously donating 9 acres of land on the condition that the city turns it into a leash-free dog park.
At Tuesday’s city council meeting, councillors received an update on the project from City Hall staff.
The Director of Public Works and Community Services Geoff Holman explained that the land transfer process should be complete by the end of the year.
To realize the project $175,000 has already been approved in the 2022 budget, but some extra funds will be needed.
“We’re asking for some additional funding in 2023 just to complete the paving and the fencing and signage,” Holman told city council. “I hope to have a ground breaking in the spring and go through the process of officially naming the park.”
Councillor Carmen DeRose asked Holman if the city’s liability insurance would cover the dog park.
Holman explained that it should while adding that the city's insurance policy will be discussed at a future city council meeting because the contract is up.
Councillor Henry D'Angela shared his concerns about the speed limit on Beaverdams Road.
“I believe it’s 60 right now,” he said. “If you got the bend and cars are moving at a good pace and people are coming out of the parking lot—heaven forbid.”
Mayor Terry Ugulini agreed and said it was something that could be worked out between Public Works and the region.
It seems that the leash-free dog park is on track for a 2023 realization so that Thorold residents will finally be able to unleash their hounds.
