Bark If You're Interested In an Oak Forest Dog Park

Alderman Laura Clemons is looking for a show of paws for all those in favor of an Oak Forest dog park.

Clemons asks that all residents interesting in learning more about the pooch playground attend an open meeting Thursday, June 23 at 7 p.m. at city hall. Clemons will offer her ideas for the park and ask for help from 20–25 people who would be interested in steering the project. The park would be developed and managed by volunteers.

The suggested plot for the park would be a 8–10 acre parcel at 163rd and Cicero that was deeded to the city by Cook County, Clemons said. Two acres of the land would be segregated for use as the park.  It would be funded by donations, corporate sponsorships and fundraisers. No taxpayer dollars would be used on the park, Clemons said.

Clemons, who began as alderman in 2008 and recently was re-elected to a second term, said residents have asked her to toy with the idea since her first days in the role.

"People have been wondering why/if/how we can't have a dog park," Clemons told Patch.

Clemons began digging into the idea about a year ago. Mayor Hank Kuspa visited the land that could be used for the park, and agreed that it would be fit the purpose well. 

But first, it takes a dedicated group of individuals to help get the project started. Clemons is hoping Thursday's meeting helps generate interest.

"It's simply an exploratory meeting to gauge interest," Clemons said. "If there's no positive response, it won't move forward."

Basic features for the park, including a fence and lock and key, would run approximately $8,500. Additional features such as picnic tables, agility equipment, a water source and a sandbox for digging, would raise the price to approximately $10,000. Clemons has researched fundraising ideas such as a dog wash, dog photos, walk-a-thon and dog treat bake sale. Other opportunities, such as grants through PetCo or PetSmart, could help generate some of the necessary funds.

Clemons stressed again that no taxpayer dollars would be used on the park.

If Clemons finds enough residents to lead the effort, she then plans to reach out to residents closest to the proposed park.

If you're interested in attending the meeting to learn more about a dog park in Oak Forest, stop into city hall Thursday, June 23 at 7 p.m.