After years of community interest and planning, the Park District of Franklin Park is bringing a new off-leash dog park to life at 9621 Pacific Avenue.
The Pawcific Dog Park is currently under construction and will provide a safe, welcoming space where dogs can exercise, play, and socialize while their owners connect with other members of the community.
The vision for a community dog park has been shared by Franklin Park residents for years. Formal planning began in April 2024, when the Park District began discussions with the Village of Franklin Park about making the project possible.
In November 2024, Park District ordinances were updated to allow dogs within a designated dog park. The Pacific Avenue property was selected because of its central location, visibility, and cost-efficiency. Importantly, the Village of Franklin Park leased the property to the Park District, allowing the project to move forward without the need for land acquisition. While the Village is not involved in the development or management of the dog park, its partnership in making the land available was an important step in bringing the project to life.
An intergovernmental agreement between the Park District and Village was completed in January 2025, followed by an environmental study in February and rezoning in April. With these important steps completed, the Park District moved forward with design and community engagement.
The Park District partnered with Hitchcock Design Group to develop the dog park’s master plan. Community input was also an important part of the process, with residents invited to share their feedback through a community survey.
At the June 11 Dog Park Informational Meeting, residents received their first look at the concept design and had an opportunity to learn more about the project and provide feedback.
The design focuses on safety, accessibility, comfort, and enrichment, with planned features including:
- Separate areas for large and small dogs
- Secure, double-gated entrances for safe entry and exit
- Water and waste stations
- Natural landscaping and shaded areas
- Agility features and spaces for exercise and play
Following the design and planning process, the project went out to bid in January 2026, and construction is now underway. The Park District has worked closely with designers, contractors, and community partners throughout the process to move the project from concept to reality.
The Pawcific Dog Park is part of the Park District’s continued investment in high-quality facilities and amenities that encourage outdoor recreation, strengthen neighborhoods, and create opportunities for residents to connect.
Once complete, the Pawcific Dog Park will be open to both Franklin Park residents and non-residents who complete the required registration process at the Community Center.
Registration will be free and will require:
- A completed registration form and waiver
- Proof of current vaccinations for each dog
Click here to preview the Dog Park Rules.
The Pawcific Dog Park is projected to open before Thanksgiving.
We are excited to see this long-awaited community project become a reality and look forward to welcoming Franklin Park residents, their four-legged friends, and dog lovers from throughout the community to the new Pawcific Dog Park!