?Our newest park was created in response to the needs of our residents,? said Ward 2 Councillor Tony Carella, Chair of the Off Leash Area Working Committee. ?Pets and their owners can now exercise in a safe, controlled area. The park?s success will be key to meeting the recommendation in our new Recreational Master Plan. I would also like to thank my Council colleague Sandra Yeung Racco for her support in helping to make this park a reality.?

The new park is located at 299 Racco Parkway Boulevard at the eastern most end of Concord Thornhill Regional Park. The park is one hectare in size and is fully fenced with a double gate system. If this pilot project is successful, the City plans to create more additional off leash areas in each City ward.

?It was wonderful to see pets and their owners enjoying themselves in our first leash free area,? said Mayor Linda Jackson. ?It gives our residents a chance to keep fit and lead a healthy lifestyle by exercising with their pets. This new park will add to the City?s distinction of having more green space per capita than any other municipality in the Greater Toronto Area.?

A key component of managing the park is the formation of a volunteer group who plan to utilize the park regularly. The Off Leash Park Steward Group will provide information on the rules of operation and assist with monitoring and minor maintenance.