Two Rocky Mountain House residents went before town council this week to discuss options for a new dog park location in the community.

The residents spoke of town-approved locations that may be a better fit, and also brought in comments and statistics about the dog park location from community members.

Kiana Uhlmann and Amanda Fischer took it upon themselves to conduct a survey of members of the town and county regarding their opinions on the dog park location.

The survey conducted had approximately 80 respondents over a survey period of two weeks. Uhlmann says she pulled from a map of suggested locations the Town of Rocky Mountain House had released, as well as previously suggested locations.

Ulhmann said, “We have a fantastic opportunity to create a community space that can realistically be used for decades and we’d love to see it designed thoughtfully and with an eye on how to serve a growing community going forward.”

Uhlmann noted, through the survey, they were able to get an idea of what people want and need in the dog park.

The top choice is located in the north end of town surrounding the storm water pond. Uhlmann says this is a great option due to its spacious size, connection to walking paths, natural foliage and ability to add infrastructure such as parking or washrooms nearby as needed.

This was also one of the recommended areas included on the 2017 Recreation Master Plan as a viable option.

Uhlmann added, this location is also ideal because it’s far enough away from the central core of Rocky.

The second top choice is located by Creekside next to Quinn Park. Uhlmann says this is also a good option just because it’s high, dry, flat and easily accessible by walking path and by highway.

Uhlmann notes, however, it would probably require a little more development to add foliage and parking lots, but it was another highly voted on location.

Both Uhlmann and Fischer’s ask for town council is to put a pause on the plans they have so they can get more public input.

Town officials note, no work such as ordering fences for the new dog park has begun as of yet.

Council accepted the presentation as information from Kiana Uhlman and Amanda Fischer and put a pause in the relocation of the dog park until other options are discussed.