By Tamas Mondovics
Brandon area residents have a chance to see the plans and provide feedback to County staff during an upcoming public meeting about a proposed Dog Park to be added to Saladino Park 1692 Bryan Rd, in Brandon.
The discussion is scheduled to be held at the Brandon Recreation Center, 502 East Sadie St., Brandon, on Tuesday, May 23, from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.
According to County officials, Brandon area residents have been asking for a dog park to be built for their community and the meeting will allow everyone to get a better idea of the proposed project.
With some additional public input, Hillsborough County Parks department can also determine community desire for a park in the proposed neighborhood.
The meeting will present the proposed project to all present early in the planning and design stage.
Based on comments received, and the engineering analyses, Parks and Recreation staff will refine the project or decide that the project should not move forward.
Construction of the $450,000 park is to be paid for by Parks Central Impact Fee Zone Funds and is expected to begin in winter 2017. Completion is scheduled for spring 2018.
The project is to be managed by Chris Postiglione.
Nearby dog parks are located in Seffner, and Plant City, while dog lovers living in the southend of the county are enjoying such parks in Apollo Beach, Ruskin and Riverview, many of which offer sheltered picnic areas, nature trails, and playground as well as a restroom for humans too.
Speaking highly of the Mango Dog Park in Seffner, Virginia Oversteet posted on her Facebook page, “Love taking our dog here. They have separate big and small dog parks. Plenty of shaded picnic tables. A covered area with picnic tables.
People and dog fountains. Kiddie pools for pups. Lots of space to run and play. There are also public restrooms.”
Perhaps, such comment can give residents some idea of what they might like to see included in the County’s plans for a similar park in Brandon.
For information, visit HCFLGOV.net. or contact Kyla Booher at 307-1891.
