Empty city property transforms into new Bay View Dog Park

MILWAUKEE-- Dogs in Milwaukee's Bay View neighborhood have a new place to play.



Kerri Schmidt and her eight year old Schnauzer, Riley, were just one of many families who attended the grand opening Thursday afternoon.



\"It's just been really fun to come out,\" said Schmidt.



Ald. Tony Zielinski says a dog park was much needed in Bay View.



\"This is probably the highest concentration of dog lovers anywhere in the city,\" said Ald. Zielinski



When Ald. Zielinski saw a space nestled underneath an overpass by South Bay Street and East Lincoln-- he saw an opportunity.



\"This area has been empty for as long as I can remember,\" he said.



Milwaukee Mayor Tom Barrett says the park is smart use of a once vacant lot.



\"This is a great quality of life addition to the City of Milwaukee and it's a great partnership,\" he said.



The city provided the land, but Milwaukee County will run the park.  Officials from Milwaukee County Parks say this is the sixth dog park in the county.



As dogs enjoy a sunny day outside after a long harsh winter-- their owners say the new park is for them too.



\"It's nice to be able to come here after work and let them get their exercise,\" said Schmidt.



The park is open to all dogs with that have their certificates and vaccination records.  Dog owners will need to purchase a day or annual permit from Milwaukee County Parks to gain entry.  These permits are available on site,  



 

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