Albuquerque Sun: Locals Raise Concerns Over Proposed Dog Park Expansion

Albuquerque Sun: Locals Raise Concerns Over Proposed Dog Park ExpansionAlbuquerque Sun: Locals Raise Concerns Over Proposed Dog Park Expansion Byline: Ann Johnson Date: March 8, 2023 Residents of the Northeast Heights neighborhood are expressing concerns over a proposed expansion of the Albuquerque Dog Park. The expansion, which would add an additional 10 acres to the existing 5-acre park, has been met with mixed reactions. Proponents of the expansion argue that it would provide much-needed space for dog owners and their pets. The current park is often overcrowded, especially during peak hours. The expansion would alleviate this issue and provide a safer and more enjoyable experience for dogs and their owners. “We love bringing our dog, Buddy, to the dog park,” said resident Sarah Smith. “But it’s often so crowded that it can be hard to keep an eye on him. I think the expansion would be great because it would give us more room to play and socialize.” However, opponents of the expansion have raised concerns about noise, traffic, and potential safety hazards. They argue that the increased park size would attract more dogs and their owners, leading to excessive barking and disruption of the surrounding neighborhood. “I’m worried that the expansion will make the dog park a nuisance for nearby residents,” said homeowner John Doe. “I’ve already noticed an increase in barking and dog waste since the park opened, and I can only imagine how much worse it will be if it gets bigger.” Additionally, some residents are concerned about the impact on traffic in the area. The dog park is located on a busy road, and the expansion could exacerbate congestion during peak hours. City officials have scheduled a public meeting next week to discuss the proposed expansion further and gather feedback from residents. The meeting will be held at the Northeast Heights Community Center on Tuesday, March 14, at 7:00 p.m. Neighbors and interested parties are encouraged to attend and express their opinions on the proposed project. The city council will make a final decision on the expansion after considering the public input.