By Jason KUROSU

L.A. County’s first dog park is nearing a scheduled August completion after nearly five years in the making. Construction began in November of 2011 on the site that is to occupy about 1.5 acres of Crescenta Valley Park. A partnership of the Crescenta Valley Town Council and CV DOGS (Community Volunteers for Dogs Off-Leash Gathering and Socializing) culminated in the concept of a dog park allowing for an unrestrained leash-free environment.

If all goes as planned, the park will be an accommodating experience for dogs and owners alike. Dogs will be able to roam free within the park, although double doors, which the park will have in varying sizes for small and large dogs, will ensure they cannot easily get away. The park will also feature benches and shade coverings for pet owners, as well as ADA (American Disabilities Act) access throughout.

L.A. County Department of Public Works spokesperson Kaye Michelson confirmed that crews are now working on completing the cement barrier for the dog park, as well as the main entrance. Michelson also noted that the park will feature solar-powered security lighting. Currently, construction crews are also finishing the water lines for the park’s water faucets and hose-off areas, along with laying down decomposed granite and wood chips.

“I think the best way to sum it up is that the dog park means so much to the community, our dogs and even our extended families,” said CV Town Council President Cheryl Davis, who has been supporting the dog park effort for years. “My parents were visiting last week from Northern California and my dad wears his CV DOGS T-shirt so much he had to buy a new one. When someone asked when they would be back to visit next, my dad looked at me and said, ‘Whenever my daughter gets me the date the dog park opens.’ My parents, my two brothers and parents’ dog are all coming down for the grand opening of the dog park! I got choked up and almost started to cry.

  Jason Kurosu