Commission approves area for dogs

The Columbia Parks and Recreation Commission made a decision to unleash the hounds at a meeting Thursday night.

The commission approved a plan for a leash-free area for dogs at Garth Nature Area, which will be submitted to the City Council for consideration.

Steve Saitta, director of planning and development for Columbia Parks and Recreation, said earlier that construction on the park could begin next month if the council approves the plan.

The leash-free area for dogs will consist of a fenced 2.5-acre plot on the southeast corner of Garth Nature Area, below the Bear Creek Trail. Contrary to previous proposals, smaller and larger dogs will not be separated.

According to Mike Griggs, the park services manager, the area will be funded by the existing park sales tax designated by the city.

Griggs said the dog park will do a good job serving the area’s dog owners and patrons without dogs by having separate areas for both.

“People can be scared to death of dogs and still be quite comfortable in the area,” said Griggs.

Rudy Williams, a Columbia resident living on the north side of the area, said he agreed with the plan to have a leashed-in area designated and fenced for dogs.