Aug. 12, 2015 By Jackie Strawbridge
Long Island City’s newest dog run is slated to open on Aug. 27, according to the State Parks Department.
A debut event for the dog run is scheduled for 10 a.m. on Aug. 27. There will be a soft opening at an earlier, as-yet undetermined date, Parks spokesperson Randy Simons said.
The dog run is located between P.S./I.S. 78 and the Queens West Sports Field, with its only entrance on Center Boulevard.
Original designs put the entrance closer to the school, but plans were changed after pushback from parents, who felt the proximity put kids at risk.
The semi-circle design has an open interior, except for a handful of benches. Simons said construction is essentially complete.
Tracey Morgan, who lives in a Center Boulevard apartment, said she was excited that the run is finally opening. She said that her only concern was the lack of shade, which she called “a huge problem.”
Currently, Morgan takes her dog Millie to the run at Hunters Point South Park, which also has little tree covering.
“I only bring my dog to that run in the mornings or evenings,” Morgan said.
Center Boulevard resident Ashleigh Mitchell said that she looks forward to the opening of the run. However, she said that she wished there were some interactive aspects, such as dogs steps or agility equipment.
State Sen. Michael Gianaris also spoke positively about the dog run.
“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,” he said.
“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.”
Tracey Morgan with Millie
