UPDATE 02/24/26:
“The $250k mentioned in the fiscal note on the CIP project sheet for Parker Dog Park was an estimate that was provided prior to the construction of the dog park. Since the approval of the project in FY23, staff has identified that the actual cost to maintain it is significantly less and will be handled by current Parks staff. For reference, the combined maintenance of West Guth and Sherwood Dog Parks totals $66,000 annually.
Parks staff maintains the dog parks weekly on Mondays, performing tasks such as litter pickup, mowing, and removing trash. We have determined that sufficient staffing to maintain the dog parks is currently in place, including all of the newly completed ones, and additional staff is not needed.
Parks staff will work to update the financial note on the CIP project sheet.”
-Corpus Christi Parks and Recreation
ORIGINAL:
Flour Bluff neighbors no longer have to travel far for a dog park. Parker Park’s new dog park officially opened as crews removed perimeter fencing.
Tom Stephan and his dog, Fideaux, were the first to step inside.
“Oh, it was fantastic, very convenient for me. I only live two miles away,” Stephan said.
Before the park opened, Flour Bluff residents needed to travel to the island or the Southside to access a dog park.
Two months ago, KRIS 6 first reported on the dog park’s construction. While following up with city leaders for an official opening date, crews began removing the fencing, making way for the first visitors.
“Well, I was kind of honored to be the first one. And Fideaux loves to do anything,” Stephan said.
City documents show the park will require two full-time positions with annual maintenance and operation costs estimated at $250,000.
KRIS6 News shared the numbers with Stephan, who responded, “Well... pretty expensive.”
KRIS 6 News requested a breakdown of the estimate, but the city did not provide the request. Officials said parks staff were assisting with cold weather refuge centers. We will continue to follow this story.
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