Moanalua park finally
open for dogs
The first city-sponsored dog park opened yesterday in Moanalua after three years of planning and delays.
"We've been waiting so long," said Betty Kamida, Moanalua Gardens Community Association project manager. "I am between shock and ecstasy."
Two other "bark parks," where dogs can run around unleashed, are located near Diamond Head and in Moiliili., she said. Some pet owners drive long distances to use them.
The park is across Puuloa Road from Moanalua Middle School and is about the size of the 1.46-acre Diamond Head bark park. It has been furnished with four picnic tables, benches and trash cans, Kamida said.
The association is donating plastic bags to pick up dog droppings, but she urges park users to "bring your own bags to defray the cost."
The city will do regular maintenance, but the association will do periodic cleanups and organize volunteers to monitor users, she said.
Kamida said delays were due largely to revising rules and regulations and resolving other legal issues. The last opening date was projected to be last summer.
"Hopefully, people will abide by the rules. Because if it doesn't work out, it will be harder for other regions to get dog parks open."
Volunteers can call Kamida at 524-8552.