Austin dogs to have their day?

Published 11:31 am Tuesday, September 20, 2011

Austin canines are one wag of the tail closer to having a park of their own.

City Council members reviewed the proposed location for a dog park at a Monday night work session. The council unanimously supported the proposed location — the south end of the 500 block of Second Street SE — but an official vote is pending.

Organizers of S.P.A.R.K. (Start a Park for Austin’s Respectable K-9s) said they will begin fundraising for costs associated with the park once the City Council officially approves the location. S.P.A.R.K. is composed of area residents hoping to bring a dog park to Austin; the group plans to fund a portion of the project to keep costs low for the city.

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S.P.A.R.K.’s goal is to raise about $25,000, which would cover the cost of a fence and some ongoing maintenance.

Park and Recreation Director Kim Underwood said Monday night the proposed location is ideal because restrooms and drinking water are available across the street at the Veterans’ Pavilion.

Citizens can voice their input on the proposed location at the Oct. 3 City Council meeting.