Resident rallies to get dog park at South County Regional Park

By Dave Rossman | Forum Publishing Group

10:36 AM EST, November 28, 2007

http://www.sun-sentinel.com/community/news/bocaraton/forum/sfl-flglpark1205wbfdec05,0,7166671.story

WEST BOCA - West Boca resident and dog lover Sandi Smolker grew tired of continual overcrowding at Mizner Bark, the East Boca dog park, and called on the county.

"There is so much land at South County Regional Park, 11200 Access Road, and it just made sense to have a dog park there," she said.

Smolker started a petition and between visiting Mizner Bark and PetSmart, she ended up with 144 signatures. The cries did not fall on deaf ears and construction is set to begin early next year.

"It will be similar to the dog park at Okeeheelee [Park] in West Palm Beach," said Eric Call, assistant director of Palm Beach County's Parks and Recreation Department. The new digs will feature separate areas for canines large and small, shade shelter, washing areas and restrooms, and will overlook a lake. Call said the design is being done in house and he anticipates a June or July opening.