Sorry, Fido. Tri-Cities’ 2nd dog park won’t open this week. Here’s why
AI-generated summary reviewed by our newsroom.
- Kennewick delayed its first public dog park opening due to irrigation problems.
- Grass immaturity pushed the dog park launch to fall 2025 for safety and use.
- The $225,000 project includes 3.75 acres, dual dog zones, and upgraded restrooms.
Kennewick’s much-anticipated dog park won’t open until fall, the city announced this week.
The city’s first public dog park is taking shape at the east end of Columbia Park, near the Family Fishing Pond and the Neil F. Lampson Pits.
Officials tentatively planned to celebrate the grand opening on June 28.
Unexpected irrigation issues forced the city to call off the celebration.
The irrigation system has been repaired, but city officials said the problem kept the grass from growing. It will take the remainder of the summer for the turf to reach the level of maturity the city requires for new facilities.
“We sincerely appreciate your patience as we work to deliver a premier dog park experience for you and your pups,” it said in a statement.
The dog park project makes heavy use of existing park space. About 3.75 acres are being fenced off, with areas dedicated for both large and small dogs.
Double entries and water stations are part of the design and an existing restroom is being fixed up for two-legged visitors as well as their fur babies.
Once it does open, Columbia Park Dog Park will be only the second public dog part in the Tri-Cities.
Richland’s Paws-abilities Place at Badger Mountain Community Park off Keene Road is the only other public spot where pets can run freely. It is about a 15-minute drive to the west.
The Kennewick project is funded with $225,000 from the city and contributions from dog-loving Tri-Cities businesses.
ProGuard Fence Inc. of Walla Walla is the contractor.
This story was originally published June 26, 2025 at 1:38 PM.