Published: April 24, 2008 11:32 pm      

City mulls creating a dog-friendly park

Although Johnstown encompasses 6 square miles, the city doesn’t allow much room for man’s best friend to roam.

That could change soon.

While no details are set, officials have begun exploring the idea of a constructing a dog park somewhere within the city limits.

“I do think that would be an asset, really, for the city,” Councilwoman Ann Wilson said.

Dog parks are common in larger cities. They often are fenced-in areas that allow canines to run and play freely.

In Johnstown, however, the largest open recreational space – Roxbury Park – is off-limits for dogs unless officials grant a special exception. Dogs also are banned in downtown’s Central Park.

Some members of Roxbury Civic Group wonder whether a section of the neighborhood park could be transformed into a haven for dogs.

The volunteer association would be willing to help prepare and maintain that space, said Linda Orlosky, one of the organization’s founders.

“People who are pet owners are seeing that there’s definitely a need for something like that,” Orlosky said.

While Wilson favors an enclosed area, Roxbury Civic Group members have discussed a dog park without a fence. That means dogs would have to remain on a leash.

Cost is a concern: Orlosky said fencing an adequate space “would be very expensive.”

She added that volunteers plan to further survey the Roxbury Park area.

“It’s something to explore, and we’re going to continue to do that,” she said.

Group members have talked with city Recreation Director Cliff Kitner, who said officials are gathering information on the feasibility of a dog park.

“Right now, we’re investigating all the parameters,” Kitner said.