Starting January 1, 2020 and ending March 31, 2020, the Town of Huntington is running a 90-day pilot program allowing leashed dogs at Heckscher Park.
Rules for the pilot program, sponsored by Councilwoman Joan Cergol and approved by the Town Board, have been established to ensure all park visitors can enjoy the beauty and serenity of Heckscher Park.
The rules, as noted in both the new signage installed at the park and information card hand outs, require dog owners to:
- Keep dogs on leash (maximum 6 feet) and under control. No retractable leashes.
- Pick up and properly dispose of dog waste.
- Yield to all other park goers on the paths by stepping off the path.
- Keep dogs out of the playground, picnic areas, tennis courts and the ball field, when in use.
- Keep dogs quiet during events at the Harry Chapin Rainbow Stage.
- Avoid wildlife for their safety and their dog’s.
- Keep dogs out of the plantings and the pond.
- Have dogs licensed and vaccinated.
- Have no more than two dogs per handler.
- Respect other park goers so the park is a good experience for everyone.
Park-goers with safety concerns are advised to call the Town’s 24-hour Public Safety number, (631) 351-3234.
In October, the Town Board unanimously approved Councilwoman Cergol’s resolution establishing the three-month pilot program, with the expectation that if the first three months are successful, the pilot will be extended for another three months to allow for an assessment of its success during the different seasonal uses of the park.
Please send feedback on your experience during this pilot program to the Department of Parks and Recreation at (631) 351-3089 and Councilwoman Cergol's office at (631) 351-3173.
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