Florence Gears Up to Launch Dog Parks at McLeod Park and downtown
Opportunities for dog owners and their canines to socialize are about to increase in Florence, thanks to an exciting development set to break ground – the construction of three new dog parks. The locations will include McLeod Park, Levy Park, and an undetermined spot in the downtown area..
Addressing Community Demand
The initiative symbolizes a long-awaited response to the calls from community members who have expressed their wish for such facilities over the years.
“We’re just excited to be able to provide this. I know the community has been asking for this for a long, long, long time,” stated Victoria Nash, Florence parks, recreation and sports tourism director.
Locations and Features
The first site, McLeod Park, is situated within a residential area off West Palmetto Street. In years past, a dog park was present in the location, but the new project aims to reinstate and significantly improve upon the previous park. The new dog-centric area will be enclosed, covering 3,000 square feet and will boast equipment for doggy playtime.
While the completion of the McLeod Park project depends on the contractor’s schedule, the city has also made plans for two additional dog parks. One will be located downtown – the exact location is yet to be determined – and the other will be part of the $18 million redevelopment of Levy Park in East Florence.
A total budget of approximately $200,000 has been approved by City Council members for the park projects as part of a mid-year budget adjustment.
Promoting Community Engagement
According to Nash, the hope is that these parks will not only benefit the canine population but also promote community engagement and socialization. Providing a safe space for dog owners to enjoy the outdoors and meet their neighbors are among their other ambitions.
Jayne Boswell, president of the Florence Area Humane Society, voiced her support for the new parks. She suggested that such spaces offer individuals who wish to adopt a dog but lack private space a means to exercise their pets. They also serve as an added amenity to attract more people to Florence.
Boswell also favors dog parks for the health and socialization benefits they offer dogs. “It’s kind of like people. If you’re cooped up in a house your whole life, you don’t have the same social abilities as if you can get out in the sunshine and the wet grass. I just love the idea,” she expressed.
In summary, it seems Florence’s pining for dog parks is nearer to a happy resolution, and the promise of these new amenities seems to have been greatly welcomed by the community.
