Wake County

Raleigh dog park at Dix Park reopens after months of closures. Here’s what’s new

Genny takes a short rest after several sprints with the other dogs at the Millbrook Exchange Dog Park in Raleigh on Friday, March 18, 2022. The park has separate play areas for small and large dogs.
Genny takes a short rest after several sprints with the other dogs at the Millbrook Exchange Dog Park in Raleigh on Friday, March 18, 2022. The park has separate play areas for small and large dogs. jleonard@newsobserver.com

Dog owners rejoice, the dog park at Dorothea Dix Park has officially reopened.

The park was closed in late March after complaints of muddy and wet conditions throughout the winter. The grass was reseeded with turf that is resistant to year-round wear and tear, according to the park, and parts of the field were graded to better manage storm water.

More shade, seating and “enrichment features” are still in the works.

The park has spaces for small and large dogs, and a water station.

It is located at 1800 Umstead Drive, and parking is available during the workday on the nearby gravel lot. Other parking lots are available on the weekend and evening hours.

The dog park at Dix Park was originally located along Lake Wheeler Drive but was re-established at its current location between the Big Field and the sunflower field off Umstead Drive last year. It cost $65,000 to $75,000, which was paid by the Dix Park Conservancy.

There are six other dog parks maintained by the city of Raleigh.

A temporary dog park is also located outside the Raleigh Municipal Building at 222 W. Hargett St. downtown.

Anna Roman
The News & Observer
Anna Roman is a service journalism reporter for the News & Observer. She has previously covered city government, crime and business for newspapers across North Carolina and received many North Carolina Press Association awards, including first place for investigative reporting. 
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