LONG ISLAND CITY — Another dog run is set to open this summer in Hunters Point, making it the fourth park space for pups in the pet-friendly neighborhood.
The new run is expected to open mid-July between 5th Street and Center Boulevard off of 46th Road across from the Queens West Sports Field, according to State Sen. Michael Gianaris.
"Providing the growing neighborhood of Long Island City with park space is one of my top priorities, and this new dog run will certainly help pet owners in that regard," the lawmaker said in a statement.
The idea of a dog run in that location was floated two years ago and initially met with resistance from some parents at nearby P.S. 78, who were worried about dog poop, that kids could get bitten or that students would be distracted by the pups.
The state Parks Department, which will run the dog park, did not respond to a request for comment, but Gianaris said he's hopeful the state agency "will successfully balance needs from all aspects of our community."
Dog owners in the neighborhood — which is teeming with pooches, as well as doggie daycares and other services to accommodate them — welcomed the new addition.
"I think it would be excellent. So many people have dogs," said Marilyn Malysz, a dog walker who lives in the neighborhood who says she walks 10 pups a day.
Long Island City has three existing dog runs, with one in the waterfront Hunters Point South Park, one on Vernon Boulevard and 48 Avenue and another in Murray Playground.
