Town of North Hempstead Supervisor Judi Bosworth and members of the Town Board invited all dog owners to the grand opening of the town’s first dog park on Thursday.
The dog park is located at Michael J. Tully Park in New Hyde Park and features separate areas for large and small dogs.
“We are excited to welcome our furry four-legged friends to the first ever North Hempstead Park built just for them,” Bosworth said in a statement. “This state-of-the-art dog park truly was a collaborative project between the Town and the residents. Many ideas from local dog owners and residents were incorporated into the plan which helped to make this wonderful and innovative dog park.”
Sandra “Dee” Cerrone, a resident who advocated for the dog park, said she is so excited about the opening that she is taking the day off from work. “It’s huge! We’ve been to other neighboring dog parks, but this one sounds better,” she said.
Cerrone, an animal activist, said she attended all Town Board meetings about the park opening. She said she is excited for her dog Otis, a pointer mix, to hang out with other dogs, saying, “I hope people bring their dogs!”
“I’m going to try to bring as many treats as possible,” she said.
The dog park was constructed by D.F. Stone Contracting. The two areas for small and large dogs are both made of artificial turf and pea gravel. The park also includes benches, a shade structure and water fountains for dogs and their owners.
The dog play features were donated by the Shelter Connection, a nonprofit group that works with the town’s animal shelter. They include a dog tunnel and obstacles to jump over.
Dogs are already welcome at many of the town’s parks, including North Hempstead Beach Park, Hempstead Harbor Trail, Mary Jane Davies Green and Michael J. Tully Park.
Michael J. Tully Park is located at 1401 Evergreen Ave. in New Hyde Park.
