Proposed Dog Park In La Grange Park Clears Hurdle

LA GRANGE PARK, IL — The board for the Community Park District of La Grange Park on Monday approved a five-year master plan. It includes proposed dog and skate parks at Robinhood Park, which some neighbors oppose.

During the board meeting, several residents near the park expressed their concerns about the prospects of the dog and skate parks. They said they were worried about noise, parking and potential loss in property values.

A few of the public speakers also said they didn't feel the district provided them with enough information. They asked why they weren’t contacted directly about the proposals.

The district maintains it gave residents the opportunity to provide feedback, including an online, community-wide survey earlier this year, public workshops and an open meeting.

Before voting on the master plan, Commissioner Tim Odgen said it was important to understand the plan was a result of over a year of community outreach and planning.

Ogden also reiterated the concepts for Robinhood Park in the master plan were a "launching pad." No project, he said, would start without more feedback and support from residents, according to the district.

Jessica Cannaday, the park district's executive director, said most of those who expressed concern seemed to have felt better afterward knowing nothing was set in stone and there would be further opportunities for community engagement.

The master plan passed unanimously, with Commissioner Peggy Ronovsky absent.