Neighbors of the reservoir park on 8th Avenue South in Nashville have started a petition to create a dog park in order to revive the park and area surrounding it.
At one time Reservoir Park was the place to be on nice sunny days, but things have changed.
Neighbors wanted to do something about it with the help of Metro councilman Colby Sledge. "I'm hearing overall people want to see more dog parks, and I think this area of town really needs one," said Sledge.
According to a new petition making the rounds its 577 supporters want to set aside seven acres of land at Reservoir Park to allow dogs to run off leash. "We're seeing a lot of growth in this part of town," Sledge said. "A lot of people want to be able to walk their dogs to a dog park and walk them back home without having to jump in their car."
There were currently five dog parks in Nashville. One of them was Centennial Dog Park. Hope Winburn said she couldn't imagine not having one in her neighborhood for her 1-year-old French Bulldog Dixie.
"We're in an apartment, and I don't have a backyard," said Winburn. "This dog park is a 10 minute walk or five minute drive to this place, so its very easy to bring her here."
She also said this park was always in use. "Based on my experiences at this dog park, I think it could have the same effect there," said Winburn. "There are always people here."
Metro Parks was made aware of the petition, but Sledge said this year's capital budget didn't include funding to build another dog park. Dog owners like Lukas Lamb hoped next year would be different. "I think there should be as many dog parks as the city can afford," he said.
Sledge said they were in the very beginning stages of talks, but the petition could help make a difference. "It is good to hear from people to know that this is what they want, and I would encourage people to continue to give that feedback," he said.
According to Metro Parks director Tommy Lynch, they planned to request about $1 million in funding next year for three to four dog parks in the county.
As for where they would go, it was too early to tell. To see or sign the petition,click here.
