Dog Park Proposed In Suffield

SUFFIELD, CT — A section of Stony Brooke Park could eventually become an off-leash dog park, but town officials say several questions need to be answered before the proposal moves forward.

The plan calls for a fenced area measuring about 150 feet by 50 feet near the park entrance off Route 75. It would be divided into separate sections for large and small dogs and include a waste station and trash receptacle, according to minutes from an Aug. 18 Conservation Commission meeting.

Picnic tables and a manual water pump could be added later.

Park Superintendent and Economic Development Specialist Chad Kuzontkoski told commissioners the project would be funded mainly through existing donations. Additional money may also be available to help cover maintenance.

Commissioners raised concerns about the park’s proximity to Stony Brook and the possible effects on turtles, mussels and other wildlife. They also want more information about deed restrictions, maintenance responsibilities and the views of nearby residents.

The commission voted unanimously to take no action and continue the discussion at a future meeting.

Officials are separately considering an automated entrance gate for the park. Kuzontkoski presented a quote of about $61,990 for a system that could use access cards for residents and collect payments from nonresidents.

Commissioners discussed the system’s cost, maintenance and reliability, along with how long it could take for the gate to pay for itself. No decision was made.