Friday, January 20, 2012

Brownstoner Post About DiMattina Dog Park Renovation

Brownstoner posted about the renovation presentation: http://www.brownstoner.com/blog/2012/01/plans-surface-for-carroll-gardens-dog-run-upgrades/

You'll see some heated comments regarding the cost and the proposed new surface. Perhaps some of us who use this dog park should chime in. 

We have looked at the experiences of other dog parks nationwide and learned that no surface is perfect. Decomposed Granite, though controversial, has been recommended to us by other dog park volunteer groups. We are told it is a sterile surface that allows the rain to pass through if drainage is installed properly. Underneath it is fabric membrane separating it from a layer of gravel. There are many kinds of Decomposed Granite, and Parks has asked Carroll Gardens DOG to choose between the type used in Tompkins Square Park dog park and the Washington Square Park dog runs. We are investigating this week to determine which is the least dusty. Watering regularly with a sprinkler keeps the dust down. 

Regarding the cost, a couple of years ago I was told by someone in Parks that $450,000 is not much considering Parks spends a million on a comfort station. It's insane but it's how the city works. 
Overall we are pleased with the plan, which is close to our original proposal sent years ago. A separate small dog run will be added to the vacant land adjacent to the current space. We're getting new lighting, benches, and drinking fountains. 

We will share more news as we have it! 

No comments:

Post a Comment