Kennewick to open its 1st dog park just in time for the dog days of summer
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- Kennewick opens its first public dog park June 28 in Columbia Park’s east end.
- The 3.75-acre facility includes fenced zones, water stations and restrooms.
- Funding combines $225,000 in city funds with contributions from local sponsors.
Just in time for the dog days of summer, Kennewick’s first dog park is taking shape in a quiet corner of Columbia Park.
Columbia Park Dog Park will hold its grand opening 10 a.m.-2 p.m., June 28, at the east end of the park, between the Family Fishing Pond and Lampson Pits parking lot.
When it opens, it will be only the second public dog park 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.
Kennewick began contemplating a dog park of its own more than two years ago.
It initially considered a spot by the Arboretum, near the Benton County Fairgrounds, but moved on after nearby homeowners objected. Other candidates included Hansen Park on the city’s west side and Keewaydin Park near Kennewick High School.
The east side of Columbia Park site offered a winning combination. It has parking lots, paths, utilities and even a bathroom but few neighbors. And it is little used compared to the nearby pond or Columbia River waterfront.
Nick Farline, the city’s park, recreation and facilities director, said the Columbia Park Dog Park will be similar to Richland’s park. There will be fenced zones for large and small dogs with double entries and water stations sponsored by dog-loving Tri-Citians.
And thanks to the decision to claim 3.75 acres within an existing park, it includes restroom facilities for the cost to update them.
Farline said the restrooms will offer two dog-friendly restrooms with toilets — unique for dog parks, he said.
The project is funded with $225,000 from the city and contributions from Dave Retter & Co. Sotheby’s International, Toyota of Tri-Cities, Pet Emporium, Apple Valley News, local Rotarians, Sit Means Sit and Scoop Hero.
ProGuard Fence Inc. of Walla Walla is creating fenced areas for the first phase — the small and large dog areas. Farline said funds are being reserved for a future phase to add facilities as needed, such as a second small dog zone.
Sprinkler systems are being repaired and the cheatgrass infesting the area will be treated to revive the lawn.
The dog park will make use of existing parking at the Columbia Park Marina, as well as along the property. The project includes an expanded gravel lot as well.
Dog park hours mirror Columbia Park hours: Sunrise to sunset.