12th Avenue Dog Park to Open July 19

The Cedar Rapids Parks and Recreation Department will open its third dog park, located at 420 16^th Avenue SE, on Friday, July 19, at 10:30 a.m. The 12^th Avenue Dog Park is close to a half-acre with entrances off 12^th Avenue and 16^th Avenue SE. "This new dog park is needed to help support more than 450 new residential units in the neighborhood. It is a great place for people to exercise their dogs and build community," said Hashim Taylor, Director of Parks and Recreation. "We are especially thankful for the contributions to this project that made it possible," he continued.

The dog park was constructed with the assistance of ARPA funds and a $25,000 donation from Watts Group Iowa. A $15,000 donation from Canadian National to the Cedar Rapids Parks Foundation, will fund a shade structure that will be installed in August or September. The park is fenced, with concrete entry areas and benches. Later this summer, picnic tables, a drinking fountain, and jug filler will be added.

It is available for use by individuals who have purchased an annual permit to use the City's dog parks. A permit is $38 per year and changes color each year. Permits may be picked up at the City Services Center, 500 15^th Avenue SW, or Northwest Recreation Center, 1340 11^th Street NW. Daily passes, for those who want to try a dog park or are only in the area for a short time can be purchased for $6 per use. Individuals attending the ribbon cutting event can enter a drawing for three free annual dog park permits.

Additional dog park rules regarding entering the park, behavior, and supervision is available at cityofcr.com/dogparks. A fourth dog park is planned as part of the repurposing plans at Jones Park. Construction is expected to begin this fall.