City officials continue to move forward with plans to build a dog park in the west end of New Bedford.

The City Council's Committee on Dog Parks held a public hearing Tuesday evening at the Buttonwood Park Senior Center to display conceptual designs for the project to a crowd of over two dozen people.

The preliminary plan features a pea stone surface, water fountains, benches, a five-foot metal panel fence and parking for 14-15 cars.

The park, located on Hathaway Boulevard between Greenwood and Ruggles streets, is expected to be named after late WBSM broadcaster and avid animal lover Jack Peterson, according to Ward 3 Councilor Henry Bousquet.

A majority of the funding comes from a $250,000 grant through the Stanton Foundation, while the city will match a small amount that will ultimately cover construction costs. The city's Department of Public Infrastructure will be responsible for construction, as well as maintenance of the park.

"The city matches 10%, which really you're talking about $20,000," Parks, Recreation and Beaches director Mary Rapoza said. "And for the most part, that's going to be all labor because DPI is doing it."

The planing phase of the project is coming to an end, with a final design due for approval by the end of June. Construction is expected to begin in July.

The grant also requires the city to establish a Friends of the Dog Park Committee to govern the park, establish guidelines, and decide on fees required to use the park. These volunteers will also be responsible for addressing discipline issues within the park.

No set amount for a fee has been discussed, but all funds raised through the fee will go toward a fund to purchase new equipment and cover maintenance costs. It's not expected to be very expensive for city residents, while it may be a little more for out-of-town dog owners.

"We certainly want to make sure it's accessible to all residents," said Rapoza.

More From WFHN-FM/FUN 107