We are a group of dedicated volunteers that want to preserve the passive rustic nature of Pioneer Park. We are passionate about protecting Pioneer Meadow and Sycamore creek from development projects that threaten this green space and the wildlife that call it home.

What is wrong with the dog park proposal?
Below are some reasons Pioneer Park is not an appropriate site for a dog park. Please see our Documents page for more detail and references that support our claims.

• A dog park is totally inconsistent with the historical intent of Pioneer Park
  Pioneer Park was intended to be a natural, passive parkland, one of the few remaining natural areas in the City… All improvements to date have been in keeping with the vision of a passive outdoor space that lends itself to enjoying nature, and to preserve the space as natural, passive parkland.  It is truly a Montgomery City treasure, it deserves to be preserved.  The park setting (gazebo, wildflower meadow, pond, butterfly shaped perennial beds, creek, woods) is consistent with passive nature of park's vision.  Many community residents enjoy this park as a quiet place to commune with nature, fly kites, take walks/runs, ride bikes, walk dogs.
  
• Pioneer Park is a small, family oriented, neighborhood park surrounded by residential communities.  Establishing a dog park in this area brings safety/security risks, especially given proposal for "self-policing".  Additional concerns are increased traffic problems, noise nuisance and, dirt/litter nuisance.
  

• As passive parkland, Pioneer was specifically intended to be used by residents of all ages and interests in the ways that suit them best. The proposed dog park location currently serves as a play area for local children and as the site of local boy scout troops ceremonies. It abuts the opening to the Meadow Walk, a path that allows children to examine part of a natural butterfly habitat. It is across from the pond swings, which are usually enjoyed as a quiet resting spot. Dedicating this area to a single use effectively excludes those with other interests.
  

• Residents who initially approved the creation of Pioneer Park did so with the expectation that the seven acres declared to be passive parkland would remain as such. We should honor this original commitment.
  

• The proposed area for the park is adjacent to Sycamore Creek and is a slice of precious green-space that is home to many forms of wildlife.
  

• There are serious environmental concerns from runoff into the Sycamore Creek where our children play, learn and explore nature.

• Pioneer Park is a local treasure. Let’s keep it that way.