Title
Review and Comment on Potential Dog Park Locations on the East End of Alameda and Bay Farm Island.
Body
To: Honorable Chair and Members of the Recreation and Park Commission
From: Amy Wooldridge, Recreation and Parks Director
Re: Review and Comment on Potential Dog Park Locations on the East End of Alameda and Bay Farm Island.
BACKGROUND
The City Council approved $75,000 in the FY 2021-2022 budget to construct at least one dog park located in East End Alameda or Bay Farm Island. Existing dog park facilities in Alameda includes one large dog park with separate small and large dog areas, located at Lower Washington Park off 8th Street and a dog park on Main Street near the ferry terminal. The Main Street Dog Park is temporary and will be closed once Phase 2 of Estuary Park is completed, which will include a new and better equipped dog park.
DISCUSSION
City staff reviewed multiple city-owned locations throughout East End and Bay Farm Island. Staff also met with a dog park advocacy group to review their proposed locations. The three possible locations at Krusi Park, Towata Park and Leydecker Park are the result of this research and with a consideration for city-owned sites, existing park uses, available amenities and potential impacts on neighbors.
The next step will be a community survey so the public can provide input on these potential dog park locations. This survey will be conducted in September and October. It will be broadly marketed through social media, ARPD email blasts, at existing dog parks and other opportunities.
Below are the benefits and challenges listed for each location.
|
Krusi Park |
Towata Park |
Leydecker Park |
|
Medium size area with space available for small and large dog parks within existing pathways |
Large available area and further design work would determine actual area for large and small dog parks |
Large area with space for small and large dog parks plus interesting terrain for dogs, not just flat |
|
Restrooms available at recreation center |
No restroom onsite |
Restrooms available at recreation center |
|
Parking is on the adjacent streets. No ADA parking but could be added on Otis Drive with additional funds |
18 parking stalls and street parking including ADA parking |
Ample parking available including ADA parking |
|
Existing drinking fountain (needs replacement) |
Existing drinking fountain (may need replacement) |
Existing drinking fountain (located a bit farther away) |
|
Create a buffer area from residential area (80 feet) |
Across the street from residential area (150 feet) |
Closest residence is across the park (275 feet). Adjacent to Temple Israel, Bay Farm Church and Peter Pan Academy. |
|
Lots of trees and shade |
Lots of trees and shade |
Limited shade on one half of area. Might need shade structures, more trees |
|
Facility hours would be dawn to dusk, the proximity to tennis court lights may encourage usage after dark |
Design would include a visual screen between the dog park and bicycle/pedestrian trail to reduce dogs barking at bikers along the trail |
Maintain adequate space from picnic area |
FINANCIAL IMPACT
In the FY 2021-22 budget, there is $75,000 allocated toward design and construction of a dog park. Depending upon the size and scope of the facility, this will be enough for one dog park but will not be enough to construct two dog parks. If a second dog park is desired by the community, then additional fundraising will be required.
RECOMMENDATION
To comment on potential dog park locations on the East End of Alameda and Bay Farm Island.
Respectfully submitted,
Amy Wooldridge, Recreation and Parks Director
Exhibits:
1. Potential Dog Park Locations Map