Our family, like many others in Coral Gables, has eagerly anticipated the opening of the Coral Gables Bark Park by the Underline. We have a small dog with epilepsy who requires special medication twice daily to prevent seizures. Having access to a local dog park is crucial for his health and wellbeing. We are especially eager for him to have a safe, enclosed space where he can socialize and exercise freely — opportunities that are vital to maintaining his health and happiness. 

We were ecstatic to hear about the city's plans for these dog parks near our residence, and it played a significant role in our decision to settle here. The promise of a nearby, well-equipped dog park with Astro-turf seemed perfect for us and our dog's needs, especially in the warm climate of Miami.

However, despite the completion of the new small and large dog parks off LeJeune Road, they remain closed due to bureaucratic delays. Residents across the area are receiving mixed, incomplete, or no responses from city officials concerning the reasons behind these delays. This inaction is not just disappointing; it is a breach of trust for the community members who rely on these spaces for their pets' essential needs.

The benefits of opening these parks extend beyond individual families. They offer a communal space where residents and their pets can gather, fostering community spirit and providing an outlet for exercise and socialization for dogs. This in turn reduces stress and promotes healthier lifestyles for both pets and their owners.

Moreover, the opening of the Coral Gables Bark Park would be a showcase of city government's responsiveness to resident needs and would affirm their commitment to enhancing community life in Coral Gables. It's more than just about dog parks—it's about valuing public spaces and the role they play in urban life.

We are calling on the city government of Coral Gables to cut through the bureaucracy and open the Coral Gables Bark Park immediately. Let us honor the original vision for these parks and provide a much-needed resource for the dogs and families of our area.

Please sign this petition to demand that Coral Gables officials prioritize the opening of the Coral Gables Bark Park. Together, we can urge them to act swiftly and make these vital community spaces accessible to all