Goal of an off-leash dog park remains in sight

Hey there, time traveller!
This article was published 22/06/2020 (2291 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

The Friends of King George V Dog Park continue to work toward the vision of an off leash area at the southernmost end of Des Meurons Street.

Our association conducted a successful fundraiser, partnering with Windsor Park- based small business Planet Pup, a baker of artisanal dog treats. Between dozens of orders and a profit-sharing agreement with the bakery, the committee made $286 in profit. Our attention is now turning to our next fundraising initiative.

To that end, the association is putting out a call for new volunteers and board members to supplement those who signed up at the founding meeting a little less than a year ago.

The board wishes to thank Rene Bisson for his tireless work and vision in pursuing the idea. Rene has stepped away from the group following a move, but everyone in the area knows this idea would be nowhere without him.

Whether it was dreaming up the concept in the first place, making presentations to city council or collecting petitions in the area, Rene was the workhorse and visionary behind this idea, and we thank him sincerely.

To recap:

• Rene and other supporters of the park collected a petition with over 80 per cent support of residents within 150 metres (about two-and-a-half blocks) of the proposed dog park;

• A formal request has been put to the City of Winnipeg and a report is awaited;

• A formal association called Friends of King George V Off Leash Park has been established and conducted a successful fundraiser;

• A sum of $15,000 to $20,000 is the going estimate for a proper fence and garbage installation;

• A draft design has been drawn up, calling for roughly 200 metres of fence to close off an existing fenced area.

Other details are being discussed within and by the Friends group.

We are hopeful that in the coming year, we can see further progress.

What can you do?

1. Join our board of directors, particularly the fundraising committee led by the incredible Jennifer Young;

2. Write your city councillor, asking for an update on the progress on this dog park proposal;

3. Join our email list at kgvdogpark@gmail.com

We hope to see you and your furry friends having fun in Old St. Vital before too long!

Ryan Palmquist is a community correspondent for St. Vital and chair of Friends of King George V Dog Park.