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MURFREESBORO – A proposal for a dog park in Murfreesboro is still in the discussion phase.

Murfreesboro Chamber of Commerce Director Daryl Williams spoke before Town Council at their regular meeting on April 15 to share more information about the idea.

Williams explained that, about a year ago, the Chamber started discussing future projects that would be beneficial for residents and visitors. One of those suggestions was a dog park, to be located on a piece of property donated by a resident.

“We felt that it may not be best for us to accept the property as the Chamber of Commerce,” Williams explained.

Instead, the proposal would have the town accept the donated property, and the Chamber would be in charge of maintaining the park.

“Our vision is that we would have a very nice dog park. One that you would find in any other city,” he continued.

Williams confirmed that, if the project moves forward, the Chamber would be in charge of funding the project as well as upkeep. He said they have already researched what types of fencing and equipment would be needed, and have some verbal commitments from people willing to sponsor and support the park.

He also said he doesn’t anticipate any cost to the town other than a water line and trash pick-up for the property.

“It’s not going to be done in a month or two,” Williams said, emphasizing that it’ll be a long process that’s still in the beginning stages.

“It’s something I think would be beneficial to the visitors here but also for our townsfolk. We want something the town can be proud of,” he concluded.

The council asked a few questions following the presentation.

Council member Jay Revelle asked about the size of the property.

Williams said he didn’t have the specific acreage with him, but the property is big enough to include the grassy park area along with gravel parking.

Revelle agreed that a dog park might be beneficial to traveling visitors who stop to eat in town and then visit the park with their pets.

Council member Mike Bunch asked about liability at the park.

Williams explained that in his research, he found that most other dog parks have some type of liability insurance. He noted that the Chamber already has liability insurance for events they host, and could probably add it for the park too.

Town Attorney Cecelia Jones suggested that the town look at its own insurance policy as well to see what kind of liability coverage is available.

Council member James Byerly said he’s also seen signs at dog parks elsewhere that said “use at your own risk.”

At the end of the discussion, Williams emphasized again, “We’re not just going to put it up and leave it. We’re going to keep it nice and neat.”

The council did not take any vote on the matter, but had a consensus to continue discussing the project in the future.