Wilton may be gaining momentum on a long-discussed dog park.
Parks and Recreation Department Director Steve Pierce told the Parks and Recreation Commission on Wednesday, Feb. 4 that he has identified three possible locations and is preparing a proposal that will include maps and drawings.
Over the years, the idea of a dog park has been discussed repeatedly, he said, but finding a suitable site has always been the biggest obstacle. One of the locations under consideration is Schenck’s Island, though Pierce did not elaborate on the other two options.
“I’m taking maps, outlining potential areas, and sending them out for consideration so everyone can review and comment,” Pierce said. “I’m open to all options. Where I might have an opinion on Schenck’s Island could differ from others, but there may be a spot farther in that’s drier, and we can talk through the pros and cons.”
In past discussions, Pierce said he would consult Wilton’s Inland Wetlands Commission about flooding concerns at Schenck’s Island. That issue has historically complicated plans for the site, which, along with Sackett Preserve (on Ridgefield Rd., near DeForest Rd.), has previously been considered for a dog park.
Another factor is a recent proposal from the Economic Development Commission to create an outdoor performance space at Schenck’s Island. The idea, introduced at the EDC’s Jan. 21 meeting, is also supported by a new nonprofit formed by Wilton residents.
Pierce noted there is a plateau-like area on the southern end of the park near Ogden House that is relatively dry and could potentially accommodate a dog park without interfering with performances or a proposed pavilion. The site would allow access for visitors and a space for dogs to walk, he said, though it would need to be kept clear because the area is known to be a haven for ticks.
Commission member Andrew Maria raised concerns that clearing land could disrupt wildlife, conservation areas and pollinator habitats. Pierce responded that he could consult with someone involved in the Pollinator Pathway initiative to assess any impact. “I don’t think it would be any worse for them than a train track going through,” he said.
Pierce acknowledged the location might require a short walk from the parking lot, but said it would not be inconvenient. He described the spot as likely the highest — and therefore driest — point in the area, and suggested a gravel path could be added for access.
Other sites considered in the past include “Allen’s East,” a state-owned parcel across Danbury Rd./Rte. 7 from Allen’s Meadows, which the CT Department of Transportation used as a construction staging area. Building there would also require state approval.
More recently, at the commission’s Dec. 10 meeting, Pierce identified the overflow parking lot at Merwin Meadows Park and open space near Orem’s Diner and the Park & Ride parking lot as other locations for consideration in addition to Schenck’s Island.
At that December meeting, Pierce had estimated a dog park could cost between $40,000 and $50,000 to build.
He said he will have more to discuss at the next Parks & Rec Commission meeting planned for March 2.