LUTZ - Pooches have a new place to run and meet other four-legged friends.
Hillsborough County officials cut a red ribbon Monday, signaling the opening of the Carolyn Meeker Dog Park.
The nearly 2-acre dog park at 102 S.W. First Ave. in the downtown business district has separate areas for large and small dogs.
The dog park also features a picnic shelter, water fountains for dogs and dog owners, two parking areas and plastic bags for pet waste.
After short speeches, park officials opened the aluminum gates. Sheepdogs and Labradors ran into the large dog area, while dachshunds and Yorkshire terriers scampered into the small dog side.
The $150,000 project started in Judy Alvarez's fifth-grade class at Lutz Elementary School. The students researched the need for a dog park and presented the proposal to county commissioners.
The dog park replaces one in Lake Park. Construction of permanent restrooms and a nature path is to be completed by January, officials said.
Elizabeth Lee Brown
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