Nonprofit unveils its plans for dog park in downtown Bedford
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A nonprofit group dedicated to fostering a dog-friendly community and culture has announced plans for a dog park to be located near downtown Bedford as part of the borough-led Bedford Green Park Improvements Initiative.
When completed, the dog park will be the only such community outdoor space for dogs within about a 30-minute radius of Bedford. It's expected to draw dog owners and their four-legged companions from across a tri-county area to the heart of downtown Bedford, organizers said in a press release announcing the park plans and fundraising efforts.
The project has been years in the making.
"This partnership began in 2021 with many helping hands along the way. ... We're optimistic it will meaningfully support local rescue organizations while strengthening the bond between owners and their animals," said Haley Feaster, Bark Bedford co-chair.
Fundraising is now underway for the dog park project and, as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, Bark Bedford's funds are being held and administered through the Community Foundation for the Alleghenies, organizers said.
Sponsorship levels range from Park Pal, for donations of any amount, to Rainbow Bridge ($100 donation), Founding Member ($1,000) and Off the Leash ($3,500), among others.
Barbara Diehl, Bedford Borough manager, said the dog park project aligns with the borough's commitment to "enhancing the community, preserving what makes Bedford special and creating opportunities for continued growth and improvement."
"The project that they are currently fundraising for is exactly the type of 'placemaking' project that we love and support," said Lladel Lichty, director, Bedford and Somerset counties, Community Foundation for the Alleghenies.
"Collaboration between the Borough of Bedford and a grassroots group of local individuals, working together to make their community a better place is exactly in line with what we do and what we care about," Lichty said.
Visit barkbedford.com for the full scope of the project, which is expected to enter Phase 1 site preparation in 2027, ground breaking in 2028 and the official ribbon cutting and opening in 2029.
The Green Park, commonly called The Greens, currently features a ballfield, tennis courts, basketball court, pavilion and tot lot playground.
The project, when completed, will include the dog park, along with pickleball courts, a tennis court, basketball court, new playground, tot lot, fitness area, new pavilion, bleachers, benches, new lighting and fencing.