A new dog park is opening in Pierre

PIERRE, SD (Dakota News Now) – The Pierre Community Dog Park is open for business, according to a press release from the City of Pierre. The park is located on East Sully Avenue and now has all the necessary facilities to welcome small and large dogs.

“We’ve been waiting for some parts of the interior gate to be shipped and installed,” said Brian Tipton, director of Pier Parks and Recreation. “They are now installed; the public is free to use the space.”

The 1.95-acre park includes a common area, as well as an outdoor space specifically designed for small dogs and another outdoor space just for large dogs. Each area has a sign identifying the place and a list of rules for the different areas.

“Most of the safety and maintenance of the garden is the responsibility of the users. We ask that anyone using the park respect these rules,” Tipton said.

“We’re going to try to add fountains and water seats and some dog obstacles as more funding comes in,” Tipton said.

The park was made possible through a public-private partnership between the City of Pierre and the South Dakota Board of Realtors. The board led fundraising efforts for the mural, signs and design.

“Our research tells us that dog parks make communities more attractive and livable for families,” said Tarra Sonnenschein, Central South Dakota Council of Realtors. “It was a void in our great community that our group wanted to help fill. We’re happy to help! “

The city donated two acres of land that will house the park, as well as a water line for the development. The city retains ownership and maintenance of the park. A grand opening is expected at the end of this year.

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