Upgrades planned for off-leash dog park

WHITE BEAR TOWNSHIP — Dog owners will be happy to learn improvements are in the works for the popular Otter Lake Road off-leash canine park.

Ramsey County’s Parks & Recreation Department presented plans Jan. 18 for the first of a two-phase project, which includes relocation of a small dog area, better accessibility to the park with a redesigned concrete entrance, new water fountain for people and dogs and concrete pads for benches and trash receptacles.

The Town Board approved a county request for an amended conditional use permit for phase one but prefers the county request another amendment for the second phase once plans are further along.

County Planning and Development Director Scott Yonke told the board improvements will begin in spring with $200,000 budgeted. “The entrance is currently not ADA (American Disability Act) accessible, so that will be improved,” he noted.

The off-leash park, 5750 Otter Lake Road, will not be expanded but stay within the same footprint, Yonke pointed out. Phase two will likely happen in 2024, depending on funding, and includes trail enhancements and the relocation of the small dog area to the north of the park.

A homeowner across the road from the park commented during a public hearing that users are responsible dog people and he supports the park. Forty years ago, it was “a sad little place,” noted Donald Williams. “Those who used it were mostly drug dealers. It’s much nicer now.” He would like the hours of operation for the park, which includes a boat launch, prominently displayed and enforced. Yonke said the county is “rolling out a large signage project throughout its parks.”

The county plans similar improvements at other off-leash dog parks: Battle Creek, Rice Creek and Woodview.

Debra Neutkens

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