Walker Park, located on Washington Street, reopened Tuesday, April 1, with off-leash dog park access, an initiative spearheaded by the Off-leash Working Group, according to Assistant Director of Newton Parks and Open Space, Ahron Lerman.
The new dog park provides a play area for dogs in a neighborhood where residents saw a need, according North parent, Andrew Wardly, a West Newton resident and dog owner.
City Councilor, Susan Albright, a member of the Off Leash Working Group said, “It’s thrilling to have one dog park that nobody’s yelling at us about.”
“My only concern is crossing the street as cars do go very fast on Washington Street, but it’s nice to use that space for something as it seems relatively unused,” Wardly added.
The Parks and Recreation Commission’s department hearings proposed a fenced-in design on the north half of the park four years ago according to Albright.
Additionally, Walker Park has received less criticism than typical dog park construction projects, according to Lerman.
The new park is fenced in with two protected entrances, dog waste barrels and bags, and picnic benches, and, according to Lerman, off-leash medallions will be required for dogs visiting the park, which can be obtained at the City Clerk’s office.
“I have come to understand that off-leash dog parks are not just for dogs, they’re for people,” said Albright.
Albright added that she has met many new friends and neighbors at off-leash dog parks in Newton. “It’s really as good for the people as it is for the dogs,” said Albright.
