Park Friends: Dog Park Won't Take Care of Itself

The Joe Wex Dog Run at may seem to take care of itself, but members of the park’s Friends Group want users to know the costs associated with caring for the state-of-the-art canine facility.

“We estimate it costs between ten and fifteen thousand dollars each year to maintain the park,” said Friends President Doreen Biebusch. “When things are going well…people don’t realize that it has to be paid for.”

The group, which oversaw construction of the space in 2007, is planning to step up its outreach efforts and hold a membership drive in the fall. Becoming a “household member” of the park costs just $25 per year and supports maintenance efforts in the dog run.

The group also hopes to publicize the rules and regulations of the Washington Street facility, which sees use from many South End residents and also out-of-towners with pets in tow. Lately, complaints have been trickling in regarding off-leash dogs on the lawn adjacent to the park, where kids play, Biebusch said.

"We're really hoping that people will read the rules and be responsible neighbors," she said.

Another issue concerns dog walkers bringing too many animals into the space at once, making it impossible for them to keep an eye out for behavior and waste pick-up, said Friends Board Member Richard VanOrnum.

“We’re struggling with dog walkers who bring five, six dogs in at one time,” he said. “That really contributes to the wear and tear of the park.”

Clean-up crews from Project Place visit the dog run twice a week, and volunteers also help maintain the surface, clean the rocks and benches and ensure the water fountain is functioning properly. The city is responsible for trash pick-up but nothing more, Biebusch said. 

At a meeting Tuesday night, two attendees said they’ve noticed occasional off-leash dogs outside the run, but haven’t seen much blatant rule-breaking.

“I’m pretty much there every day and I haven’t had any problems,” said dog owner Julie Banks.

The Friends are appealing to park-users to inform others of the regulations where appropriate. A copy of the rules (which can also be found here) will be posted on the bulletin board at the entrance to the run. 

To become a member, make a donation, or purchase a personalized brick at the Joe Wex Dog Run, click here.