By Jason KUROSU

A dog park, the first of its kind in the Los Angeles County park system, is in the works for development in none other than La Crescenta. It is an idea that is three and a half years in the making and finally seeing its culmination. Last week, funding for the park (expected around $300,000) was approved in a vote by the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors. A vote this Tuesday will authorize the development.
Crescenta Valley Town Council President Cheryl Davis sees no reason why it shouldn’t pass and is very excited about the development. She and the town council have been working with CV DOGS (Community Volunteers for Dogs Off-Leash Gathering and Socializing), a volunteer group, throughout the process of conceiving and developing the park.
Their goals are geared towards a park where dogs can socialize and exercise without the hindrance of leashes. The park will be situated in a 1.5 acre space in the northwest section of Crescenta Valley Park on Dunsmore and Honolulu avenues near the senior center. As is in line with the wishes and mindset of CV DOGS, the park will be an optimal free-range environment for dogs to roam. It will also be very accommodating for all types of dogs and owners. The park will feature separate areas and entrances for small and large dogs, with double doors to prevent the dogs from running away unnoticed. There will also be hose-off areas, water faucets, benches, shade coverings, recycled surfacing and landscaping.
All these embellishments should make the park a welcome place for various humans and dogs alike. CV DOGS and Davis emphasize how the park should be as advantageous for dog owners as it will be for dogs. Elderly and disabled owners who may not get as many chances to exercise their pets will have a place where they can do so without trailing their dogs every step of the way. People who share an interest in dogs can meet and socialize as well.
The dog park is slated to for a grand opening in Summer 2011.

  La Crescenta, Leisure