The Bark Park dog park closes temporarily for safety improvements

YUMA, Ariz. (KYMA) - Yuma's only off-lease dog park is temporarily closed as the city begins a series of safety improvements expected to last about four weeks.

The closure at the Bark Park began Monday, with the city engineering department saying the work is necessary to address structural concerns involving an aging wall on the property.

“The wall went up when the subdivision was originally built back in the 70s, 80s," David Wostenberg, the City of Yuma Director of Engineering, said. So it’s quite old and on top of that, it was built a little bit greater spans than what is recommended.”

Because of the heavy equipment required for the repairs, the park will remain fully closed throughout the duration of the project.

The shutdown leaves many local pet owners without a popular gathering space. Regular visitors say the park plays an important role in the community.

“Not all days are busy but most of the week are busy, this park," Ricardo Contreras, a local man said. "I believe it’s so important.”

While the temporary closure may be an inconvenience, the city says the project also presents an opportunity to complete additional upgrades throughout the park. Crews are working on repairs and improvements aimed at enhancing the overall experience for both pets and their owners.

“We are doing other stuff at the park at the same time. The parks department is making some much needed repairs and improvements on their side," Wostenberg said. We want to make sure we get it built properly, built right. And that it will last a lifetime for the homeowners.”

The city is asking for patience from the community as construction continues over the next several weeks.