(Washington, DC) – Today, Mayor Muriel Bowser, the Department of General Services (DGS), and the Department of Parks and Recreation (DPR) celebrated the opening of Texas Avenue Dog Park in Ward 7. This will be the first dog park East of the River, with two fenced dog play areas for small and large dogs.
“This dog park is not just a recreational space; it’s part of our commitment to equity and accessibility. Residents in every part of DC have pets, and they need safe spaces for their dogs to play and exercise. And by creating designated spaces for dogs, dog parks also help us keep other parks and green spaces safe and clean,” said Mayor Bowser. “I’m grateful to DGS and DPR for their combined efforts to deliver this neighborhood amenity. With the investments in our fiscal year 2025 budget, these two teams will be delivering for Ward 7 for years to come.”
In addition to the parks for dogs to play and exercise, the space features grills for public use, seating, and shade structures. The site also has a landscaped bioretention area to ensure stormwater runoff is treated.
“As the agency that builds, maintains and sustains over 840 District spaces, we’re proud to unveil the newest addition. the first ever official government dog park East of the River, to our capital landscape,” said DGS Director Delano Hunter. “With over 330 active capital projects underway, our agency remains steadfast in our mission to enhance the infrastructure that shapes the fabric of our nation’s capital. From dog parks to public facilities, each endeavor reflects our commitment to serving the diverse needs of our community.”
Mayor Bowser’s FY25 budget includes $224 million in Ward 7 DPR investments, including the Hillcrest Aquatic Center, the Fort Dupont Ice Arena, the Joy Evans Therapeutic Recreation Center, the future Sports Complex at RFK, and more.
“This first dog park in Ward 7 will provide a safer space for our four-legged friends and expand the opportunities for residents to connect,” said DPR Director Thennie Freeman. “As a dog parent in Ward 7, I look forward sharing this amenity with my puppy, Macksi, and neighbors.”
Work on the Texas Avenue Dog Park was led by DC-based businesses, with 62% of the project awarded to local certified business enterprises (CBEs), representing an almost $600,000 investment in DC’s local businesses. In working with CBE partners, such as GCS SIGAL, DGS is furthering its commitment to award contracts to local businesses that employ local workers and exceeding its goal of 35% CBE participation.
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