WESTBOROUGH – Plans for a dog park near Lake Chauncy have moved one step further.
On June 4, the Planning Board unanimously approved the full site plan review for the park, which will be near the main entrance off Lyman Street.
The plans have also received the thumbs up from the Select Board and the Conservation Commission.
But don’t let loose the hounds quite yet. According to Recreation Director Jenn Kirkland, requests for proposals for the construction will be going out this summer. Construction is scheduled for the fall, with the parking opening soon afterward.
Once it’s built, the Recreation Department will oversee its operations, including maintenance.
The park will be surrounded with a 5-foot fence. There will be separate areas and entrances for small and large dogs; these areas will be divided with a fence.
Hours are tentatively scheduled for dawn to dusk, and the park will be closed only when deep snow covers the area.
Amenities will include benches, a water station with spigot, shaded areas, dog waste bags and receptacles. A parking lot could accompany up to eight vehicles.
The park entrance will be paved; the park itself will have a peastone surface.
Kirkland said they are working with the town’s animal control officer to come up with policies and procedures. This would include what to do in case of a nuisance dog or medical emergency.
The department is also working on better traffic signage for the entire area.
The Stanton Foundation will pick up 90% of the price tag, estimated at $365,000. The remainder will come from funds through the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA).
“You did a nice job with this,” said Planning Board member John Gelchich.
To access the plans, visit www.westboroughma.gov/1150/Westborough-Dog-Park.