By Bill Parry
Construction is underway on a new dog run in Long Island City, near Center Boulevard between the Queens West Sports Field and PS 78. When completed in July, it will be the neighborhood’s fifth dog run with others located at Anabel Basin, Murray Playground, Hunters Point South and Vernon Boulevard at 48th Avenue.
“Providing the growing neighborhood of Long Island City with park space is one of my top priorities, and this new dog run will certainly help pet owners in that regard,” state Sen. Michael Gianaris (D-Astoria) said. “As this process unfolded I worked to ensure that community concerns, especially from parents at nearby schools, were heard at every step.”
The original plan was changed to move the entrance to Center Boulevard further away from the school after parents argued that student would be endangered. The project is a collaboration between the state Department of Parks and developer TF Cornerstone, which has built the luxury high-rise buildings along Center Boulevard in the last decade. The 3,000-square-foot landscaped space is expected to cost $750,000.
“I am hopeful that State Parks will successfully balance needs from all aspects of our community to allow parents, students and dog owners alike to welcome this addition to our neighborhood,” Gianaris said.
Reach reporter Bill Parry by e-mail at bparr
