In December 2021, At-Large DC Councilmember Christina Henderson (who I just think is fabulous) sent a request to the DC Department of Parks and Requestion requesting a status update on the Texas Ave SE dog park project in Ward 7. As you know, there is not a single dog park east of the river. Earlier in 2021, the DC Council supported Councilmember Henderson's amendment to add $100K to the Ward 7 dog park project's budget for a total of $500,000.

You can read Councilmember Henderson's letter to DPR here.

You can read DPR's update here.

Below is a screenshot of an excerpt of DPR's response:

Fingers crossed that 2022 will finally bring a long-overdue amenity to DC taxpayers living east of the river! Dog parks are great resources for communities as they add a much-needed third space for people to connect, provide a safe space for dogs and their owners to play, encourage socializing (for pets and people), and keep responsible eyes on the street. As a dog owner myself, I can attest that dog park people are very involved and committed to their community. People who walk their dogs around their community are very aware of what is happening on the street. As president of my Ward 8 condo association, I successfully advocated for a dog park on our property for owners and their pups. I can’t tell you how many times people in the dog park were able to prevent or report incidents of crime or littering just by being in the dog park. It was also a great way for neighbors both inside and outside of the association to connect.

We should encourage any opportunity or project that encourages DC residents to engage in positive activity while building bonds of community and trust. I, for one, fully support any efforts to bring dog parks and other much-needed amenities and services to Wards 7 and 8.