New inclusive, ADA-compliant dog park to open downtown

(COLORADO SPRINGS) — The city of Colorado Springs will be opening a new dog park downtown on Thursday, May 16 at 4:30 p.m.

Antlers Dog Park will include two separate play areas, one for small dogs and another for large dogs. The park also features a large fence with double gates, a synthetic turf, a sitting area, play amenities, and a dog water station.

The park is a part of the Downtown Historic Parks Master Plan approved in 2020. In 2022, Acacia Park, Colorado Springs’ first park, was renovated with a Ninja Warrior-like climbing structure, a tot lot, a slide, and a spinner.

“We are excited for the new Antlers Dog Park and the many benefits it will provide to the Colorado Springs community,” said David Deitemeyer, Trails, Open Space and Parks (TOPS) Senior Program Administrator. “We are dedicated to ensuring that all members of our community have equal access to our parks, and this project is a shining example of that commitment.”

In collaboration with the City of Colorado Springs Office of Accessibility, Colorado Springs Park, Recreation and Cultural Services designed the space to be inclusive for all members of the community. The park is ADA-compliant and provides a safe environment for all abilities.

“By making the dog park accessible to individuals with disabilities, we are creating a more inclusive and welcoming environment for everyone,” said City of Colorado Springs accessibility projects manager Tim Hartong. “This new amenity benefits the community by providing a space where pet owners of all abilities can come together, socialize, and enjoy the outdoors with their beloved companions.”

The ribbon-cutting celebration for the park, located at 31 Pikes Peak Ave., is free and open to the public. There will also be giveaways from Downtown Partnership and Pikes Peak State College. Dogs must stay on leash unless inside the dog park fence.

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