One of the things I love about living on the Hill is that we’re a community of dog-friendly folks, in a pretty dog-friendly city. Before I got my pooch (Ramona, a now 3 year old Schnauzer/Poodle mix), I was friendly with my neighbors, but since bringing her into my life, I feel like I’ve really joined the Capitol Hill community that I’d previously only watched from the fringes. We’re regulars at Lincoln Park, but when I found out about Hill Hounds and their work to bring official dog parks to DC, and specifically to the Hill, I knew I had to get involved.
The new dog park will replace an unused asphalt lot at Kingsman Field, which is located at 14th Street and Tennessee Ave. NE. Ground is scheduled to be broken this fall.
Hill Hounds is a 501 (c)(3) that was initially formed in 2004 to advocate for the creation of official dog parks within the city. In 2007, DC law was amended and money was allocated by the city for the construction of dog parks in DC’s neighborhoods. The group is an official partner of the Department of Parks and Recreation on the Kingsman Field project.
Hill Hounds is now focusing on raising money to pay for amenities and ongoing administration and maintenance of the Kingsman Field Park. DPW is paying for major construction expenses including a double gated entrance, ground surface, a hose spout, trash receptacles, lighting and a community bulletin board. Hill Hounds is responsible for much of the day to day maintenance of the park.
Hill Hounds will be hosting a number of fundraisers around the Hill over the next several months. You can also contribute online at www.hillhounds.com. There are a variety of sponsorship levels, including the option to purchase a brick engraved with the message of your choice, provide park landscaping, sponsor a bench or sponsor the park for a year. All contributions are tax deductible.
In addition, the group will be hosting a wine tasting on Thursday, May 21 at P&C Market on the corner of 11th and E. Capitol St. this Thursday evening from 5:30 until 8pm. A portion of the wine sales will go to Hill Hounds and volunteers will be on-hand to show off the design concept for the park and sell Hill Hounds collars and leashes, homemade dog treats and other items.
Currently, Hill Hounds is looking to raise $10,000 by the end of March. So far, they’ve raised $3,000 through a variety of events, and online.
The Kingsman Field Park is slated to be ready for late summer or early fall of this year. I know that there are those out there who are opposed to dogs, their owners and their parks – but Hill Hounds’ efforts are alleviating tax payer burden while simultaneously turning a previously unused space into a legal, safe spot for their dogs – as well as a community gathering place.
By Nichole Remmert