In December, Staples High School junior Emme Dorfman wrote a “Students Speak” story for “06880,” proposing a fenced-in dog run area in Westport.
Today, she and Representative Town Meeting member Andrew Colabella offer an update, clarifying some misconceptions about the idea.
Since the story was published, we’ve continued working with the Parks & Recreation Department and Planning & Zoning Commission, to develop a thoughtful proposal for a fenced-in dog park at Winslow.
With help from “06880” and Westport Moms, we conducted a community survey. We received over 700 responses, with 73% supporting a fenced-in dog park in Westport.
We recently presented the proposal to both commissions, and shared our vision for “Dogport.”
A suggested area for the “Dogport” is the area near Compo Road North, which served as the staging area for a recent nearby sewer project.
A key part of the plan is that the space would not be an unregulated open area. Access would be controlled through a secure key fob system, allowing only registered users with vaccinated dogs to enter. This creates accountability, encourages responsible use, and allows the town to enforce rules if needed.
Unfortunately, some concerns appear to be based on misunderstandings or rumors — including claims that the entire park would be fenced in, or that the space would resemble a “kennel.”
In reality, the proposal involves fencing in one specific section of Winslow to create a safe off-leash area. The rest of the park would remain completely unchanged.
Andrew has spent considerable time meeting with regular Winslow users to explain the proposal, answer questions, and hear feedback firsthand. We’ve found that many residents become supportive once they understand what is actually being proposed.
Only one section of Winslow Park is proposed for the Dogport. The rest of the 29-acre site would remain open. (Photo/Mark Mathias)
For decades, Winslow has been a gathering place for dog owners. However, the lack of an enclosed area and the park’s proximity to Compo Road North create safety concerns for many residents. A fenced-in section would provide a safer, more organized environment while still preserving the park’s existing recreational uses and open-space character.
After reviewing multiple possible locations with town officials, the proposed site emerged as the most practical and least disruptive option. The area is already graded, easier to maintain, and would not interfere with current park activities.
Throughout this process we’ve worked hard to listen to feedback, answer concerns, and approach this responsibly. We truly believe Dogport would be a meaningful, well-managed addition to the community.
Proposed Dogport rules include:
- Sunrise to sunset hours
- Secure key fob access for registered members only
- Dogs must be licensed, vaccinated and registered
- Maximum of 3 dogs per person
- Dogs must be leashed entering and exiting
- Owners must clean up after their dogs
- Repeated violations could result in revoked access
A sign like this might be placed at the proposed “Dogport.”
We will have a table at the Westport Dog Festival on May 17, to sell Dogport merch. Here is the link to the merch for anyone who would like to donate!
Thank you for helping bring attention to this project and move the conversation forward.
NOTE: Renderings are only conceptual — not final designs. Official schematic plans are underway.
(“06880″‘s Opinion pages are open to all. Please email submissions to 06880blog@gmail.com. To support this hyper-local blog, please click here. Thank you!)
Could you please provide the link to the Dogport merch?
Here ya go!
https://dogport06880.itemorder.com/shop/home/
Winslow Park is dominated by aggressive dogs and negligent owners, particularly in the early mornings. I speak as someone whose dog was mauled by a German Shepherd there. Adding enclosed dog runs will only escalate aggressive dog situations because there is nowhere for the victim to flee and because the illusion of safety allows owners to be even less attentive. It’s one of many reasons why dog professionals routinely warn dog owners to avoid this type of dog park entirely: https://www.courteouscanine.com/say-no-to-dog-parks/
Why not just fence the entire park (or at least the sections exposed to the road) and call it a day?
Also, requiring proof of registration with the town effectively limits the dog park to town residents, which is not in keeping with the idea of a public park.
I totally agree. I think a small fenced in area is a bad idea. People will pay attention even less!!! I like the idea of just fencing the few open spots along the roads.
I’m very sorry to hear about your dog — that must have been incredibly upsetting. Safety is exactly why this conversation matters.
At the same time, it’s important to recognize that nearly every surrounding community already has some form of fenced dog park or enclosed dog run, including towns like Weston, New Canaan, Darien, Fairfield, Norwalk, Stamford and others throughout the area. These spaces exist because many dog owners want a designated, controlled place for dogs to exercise and socialize safely rather than having off-leash activity happen informally throughout open public parks. It is just another option to have at Winslow which is 29 acres.
No solution is perfect, and concerns about aggressive dogs should absolutely be part of the discussion. But many neighboring towns have shown that fenced dog parks can coexist successfully with the broader community when thoughtfully planned and managed. And this will not be limited to Westport residents. Non residents can show proof of vaccination and pay a fee to also get access to the area.
I actually think a fenced dog run is a good idea if the open space isn’t otherwise going to be used for something useful like affordable housing.
A couple of things though. I don’t believe Fairfield has a fenced dog park like proposed here. If we do, I’d appreciate the link. As for non-residents being allowed to use the Dogport, the “Locals Only” on the Dogport merch suggests otherwise.
I would also encourage residents to attend Wednesday’s (5/20) meeting of the Parks & Recreation Commission. We will be discussing this proposal and public comments are welcome. It will be a Zoom meeting, details on the Town website.
David Floyd, Chair, Parks & Rec Commmission
https://dogport06880.itemorder.com/shop/home/
Here’s the link to DogPort Merch
I have found the dog park to be a wonderful place for community building and getting to know our neighbors. This is a wonderful idea- we’ll just need a coffee truck and it’ll be perfect.
If this goes forward I would suggest that entrances should be on the side next to the parking lot with sidewalks to entrance gates that support access for dog owners with mobility differences.
Also: will registered users be required to waive liability against the town for using the dog run? I’m not interested in my tax dollars going to pay settlements when the inevitable injuries to dogs and people happen in an environment that’s nearly universally opposed by dog professionals due to the known risks.
As stated in the rules posted at all entrances of Winslow, dog owners are solely responsible for any injury from their dog to another person or dog.
I have been using Winslow for the past twenty years with my dogs without incident. It saddens me that anyone would want to change such an iconic and inclusive Westport treasure. If your dog is trained then the park is a place where residents and non residents of all ages meet or just go for a peaceful walk in the woods with their dog. Untrained dogs are better suited to the leashed area.
That aside, the proposed location of the park has two major issues. The first is that is it is located closed to residences across Compo Road North. Enclosed dog run are notoriously loud. The behavior of dogs in a fenced area is completely different from acres of free space. Barking and aggressive incidents increase in an enclosed environment.
The second is that my dogs are trained not go into the area near Compo Road. If you put a dog run yards away from the unleashed area next to Compo dogs will be drawn by the barking and activity and will want to run towards the busy road.
The most suitable place for a run would be in the leashed area next to the Post Road directly in front of the parking lot located on Compo. The Post Road will help to drown out the noise, residents who want to use the enclosed area will have better access (especially if they are concerned about the off leash dogs) and those of us who are extremely happy with things as is can continue to enjoy the freedom of the unleashed area.
Members of my family and I are at the Winslow twice a day and have never been asked our thoughts on the proposal. We have also not had access to the questionnaire that went out to 700+ people but somehow missed us.
For decades the park has functioned beautifully without oversite or intervention. I do not understand the mindset that feels like it needs to change. Right now it feels like some Westporters are trying to keep non-residents out and potentially affect the families that live near the park and longstanding Winslow users with the current proposal.
Hi September,
Thank you for taking the time to share your thoughts and concerns. I genuinely appreciate hearing from longtime Winslow users like yourself, especially those who clearly care deeply about the park and its unique character.
I want to be very clear that the intention of the DogPort proposal is not to change the identity of Winslow, restrict access, or diminish what so many residents and non-residents have enjoyed for decades. In fact, one of the core principles of the proposal is preserving the existing park experience exactly as it is today — including maintaining the current off-leash and on-leash areas throughout the rest of the park.
The fenced dog run would simply provide an additional option for residents who may not currently feel comfortable using the open off-leash environment, whether due to training level, age of a dog, rescue temperament, mobility concerns, or safety concerns around uncontrolled interactions. It is not meant to replace the culture of Winslow, but complement it.
You also raise thoughtful concerns about noise and proximity to Compo Road North. Those are exactly the kinds of comments that are important during the early discussion phase. However, I did want to point out something important within your own feedback: while expressing concern about the aesthetics and placement of a fenced dog run in one portion of the park, you also suggested relocating the concept to another area of Winslow near the Post Road. That tells me the disagreement may not necessarily be with the existence of a fenced dog area itself, but rather with where and how it is implemented — which is a very fair conversation to have.
Similarly, you mentioned concerns about dogs potentially being drawn toward Compo Road North due to activity or barking near the proposed enclosure. Respectfully, that concern is also part of why many residents support having a contained, fenced-in space in the first place. A properly designed enclosure is intended to create a safer, more controlled environment for both dogs and park users, particularly near roadways or high-activity areas.
I also found it somewhat contradictory that your letter emphasizes that “trained dogs” do well in the existing off-leash environment and that untrained dogs should simply remain in the leashed areas, while at the same time expressing concern that even your own trained dogs could potentially be drawn toward a busy roadway because of activity elsewhere in the park. If even highly trained dogs can still become distracted or unpredictable under certain conditions, that only reinforces why some residents believe having a secure, enclosed option can improve overall safety without taking away the existing open experience that many people already enjoy.
I also want to address the concern about “keeping non-residents out,” because personally, I do not support that idea at all. Winslow is special because it brings together people from all walks of life, and that sense of community should remain intact. The proposal was never intended to divide users into “good” and “bad” groups, or longtime users versus newcomers.
As for outreach, the survey was circulated publicly online through community groups and local platforms, but no survey is ever perfect or fully representative. That is exactly why ongoing public input like yours is valuable and should continue to shape the conversation moving forward.
At the end of the day, I think everyone involved ultimately wants the same thing: a safe, welcoming, peaceful Winslow Park that remains one of Westport’s treasures for decades to come — even if we may have different ideas on how best to achieve that.
If the primary sponsors of the Dogport do not support “keeping non-residents out” why does a lot of the Dogport merch prominently say “Locals Only”?
In the top part of this story, it says: “With help from “06880” and Westport Moms, we conducted a community survey. We received over 700 responses, with 73% supporting a fenced-in dog park in Westport.” First, I’d like to see that survey to see how it was drafted. Second, while Westport Moms is a great group, did anyone think to survey the primary users of Winslow Park? I, for one, have been taking my dog there for five years and as I’ve talked to the people in the park, NOT ONE of them received or contributed to the survey. If you’re going to do a survey, SURVEY THE PEOPLE who USE Winslow Park.
Additionally, as I’ve taken my dog to various other town parks with fenced in areas, my experience is that they are so overused that the grass is gone and it’s mainly weeds and significant amounts of dog feces that haven’t been cleaned up. Neither is what ANYONE wants, so be aware of the unintended consequences of doing this.
Finally, another commenter indicated that having a fenced in area provides a secure place for dogs. It doesn’t. A fenced in area mean that dogs that are being threatened or attacked have NO PLACE TO RUN. And, since in these areas, the owners typically remain outside of the fences while the dogs play, the owners are not able to quickly assist in stopping any aggression.
Needless to say, I am not yet convinced that this idea results in a “net positive” for Winslow Park, the Town, the owners, or the dogs.
This is a solution in search of a problem. What problem is trying to be solved here? Parks and Rec can provide specifics, but it’s safe to say Westport residents have access to at least over 500 acres of parks, not to mention beaches and ballfields. This is the one place where dogs can socialize (very important) and dog owners can connect – there is an important community aspect to the park. It is a vital part of our community for many reasons. Yes, other towns have caged runs, but why do we have to be like other towns? Do they have caged areas because they don’t have a place like Winslow? What is the impact of caging dogs and is there more value in that vs providing open space that is fenced? There’s a unique quality and character to our town that is distinct. There are so many reasons why this is a very bad idea, but I am open to learning more about what exactly is driving this and where the best interests of the town as a whole reside, including its animals who don’t have a voice, but whose owners will fiercely advocate for their best interests.
I Recently had a informative chat with Andrew, who seems open to further discussion. Some points.
– Two dog parks on town property appear redundant and potentially exclusive.
– The proposed area was previously a dust bowl during staging, and turf damage and barking from dogs is inevitable.
– This open prairie offers natural beauty year-round; adding structures and the activity of a dog run conflicts with the town’s open space preservation goals.
– The original concept was aimed at addressing runaway dogs and North Compo rd., this does not achieve that, instead it attracts more dogs to the wall and road.
– The “Valley”, already a dog gathering spot, effectively serves as a Westport’s dog meet up area; fencing it could contain dogs while maintaining the open-space aesthetic.
– Questions remain about fob distribution: Are they issued indefinitely? how many? what about “Dog park Hogs”, Does the fee limit public access? Who enforces rules on-site? Could conflicts arise between pet owners for access?
– Overall, the proposal feels exclusive when viewed from a high-level perspective.
I’d lean toward a subtle but fenced-in bowl/wooded area. It’s almost completely fenced now, with minimal cost to complete, and most wouldn’t even realize it had been done.
Thanks for looking at improving the park and dog safety, hopefully in a thoughtful low impact way.
Such a great idea. Our town has needed this for so long!
I go to Winslow almost daily for 25 years with my dogs and I have never seen anyone asking my (or anyone else’s) opinion about this. I could understand a case for an enclosed area for just small dogs since they can get overwhelmed by the onslaught of a pack of large dogs going at them, even if in a friendly manner. As previously noted, I agree that the open area behind the parking lot on N Compo is an ideal place for that due to accessibility and not having to have dogs be so close to the actual N Compo road with the road noise and movement of cars that many dogs are trained to avoid/be scared of. Over the past year or two, I’ve seen a dramatic increase in professional dog walkers who come there with packs of 5-8 dogs. Not saying it’s good or bad, but I’ve seen many instances of one of these dogs breaking away from the group and causing quite a search adventure.
This is such an awesome and needed thing in town! Go Emme!
This is such an amazing idea. It’s long overdue and would such a great addition to town. Exciting.
Thank you for your response Andrew. Point for point…
I would rather not have a dog run but can understand that some people with small dogs or dogs without recall would like an enclosed area. If it gets pushed through I am proposing the location be the current unleashed area by the parking lot and post road for the reasons I stated above. That location does not affect the current users of Winslow and may encourage others to be more social with their pets and perhaps eventually join us the in hills and woods of the unleased area.
I am not concerned about my dogs and Compo because they have recall and will listen to me. I would rather not have to think about it on my walk but was stating this safety issue for other off leash users and young dogs getting trained to enjoy unleashed Winslow. It is a stress for some and not sure why anyone would put something that might draw off leash dogs toward Compo Road North…which I live directly on, I know the speeding issues intimately.
Lastly, even though I am 55 with three daughters I do not participate in any social media. I rely on online news for my local information as do many of the older Winslow users. Online platforms will not give your inquires an accurate representative body of residents. Perhaps putting up posters or flyers at Winslow with a QR code to a survey would give you more thorough responses by current users who will be affected by your proposed changes to the park.
Does this prohibit off-leash activity in the rest of the park that regular users are used to?
No. All off leash and leashed areas remain the same.
Smart idea for Westport, Emme.
This is so great ! Long overdue .
My idea of walking the dog is opening the back door
Ridgefield has a BARK PARk, fenced in for big and smaller dogs, open to 10 p.m. with lights. NIRVANA!!!!! Better than the back door in coyote season.
Love this idea! Would love a fenced in dog park. Yea please!!
This is a great idea- thanks to those who worked tirelessly to provide a sensible solution. I want to throw in a quote from 2 college professors who were dog breeders that had AKC obedience champions., yet had fenced in property. When I asked why, the two of them agreed that any dog can get distracted by anything, much to your dismay , run away or worse get hit by a vehicle.
So as much as people think “my dog listens” sometimes they won’t. Compo North and Post Road are busy roads. The Carl Shurz park on the UES of Manhattan had 2 sections- one for small dogs and one for big dogs. Love the idea of having proof of immunizations- this is key. Again, thanks to those who facilitated this. Our doggies need to socialize. We are grateful. WOOF ARF ARF !
Love this proposal! We have a well trained Brittney (spaniel). Like many other breeds, she loves to run off chasing anything that flies, scoots or scampers…no matter how loud we shout “stay”. Since moving to a condo, aside from Compo Beach during the off season, she’s rarely off the leash. Dogport would really make her and her parents happy.
This such a great idea!! I can now bring my dog back to the dog park knowing that there will be a safe fenced in area for her!!!! Thank you! Love the idea!!!
Renee, we all want a safe place for our dogs. My experience is that a fenced in area gives no room for a dog to run very far if they are feeling (or being) threatened or attacked. The point is that a fence does not equal safety.
Hi everyone! I’m Emme Dorfman, a junior at staples high school. I’ve been working on this project for the past few months, and I’d like to thank everyone for their input and sharing personal stories. For anyone who is concerned and seems to be against this fenced in area, Andrew, myself, and others will be at the Dog Festival at Winslow from 10-4 on Sunday. If you have questions and feel as if you didn’t get to contribute to the survey, please stop by.
I love this idea. I have always been afraid of my dog running into traffic on Compo Road. This is a great solution!
I like the idea of a fenced in area, particularly for small dogs, and actually brought this up when the never-ending sewer project was going on in my neighborhood. The area had already been fenced in by the contractor. Nevertheless, it’s still a good idea to have an area for small dogs along with a couple of benches for the dog owners inside the fenced in areas.
And the fence needs to be high enough to keep larger dogs from jumping in while smaller dogs are running around. The German Shepherd I used to have, for example, could easily jump the 5′ tall cedar fence in my yard and I had to replace it with a 7′ fence.
Which brings up another question. What is a ‘small dog’ and how will this be defined? Someone who might have had Goldens their whole lives may think a Springer Spaniel is a small dog, for example. I’ve had Havanese that ranged from 9 pounds and 9″ at the withers (the shoulder blades) to 21 pounds and 10.5″ at the withers. Another person might have a terrier who weighs 35 pounds and is 11″ at the withers and still another might have a poodle who is 12″ at the withers yet slender and only weighs 18 pounds. This criteria needs to be defined for the safety of the dogs, please.
I support the idea of a carefully conceived fenced in area at Winslow for dogs. But above all I want to thank Emme and Andrew for devoting so much time and thought to the welfare of this town – and to its two-legged and four-legged creatures. Would that all of us were so considered and constructive!
I have gone to Winslow nearly every early morning for the past 10 years, now with my third small dog. It’s a wonderful place for dogs as it is, and the idea of creating specific fenced-in areas for both small and large dogs is certainly an interesting one.
My concern is with the location that has been chosen. Anyone wanting to use the fenced-in sections would need to park in one of the main parking lots and then walk up the hill to reach them, encountering many dogs of all sizes running off leash along the path and throughout the rest of the park.
To avoid that, my guess is that many people will end up parking illegally along Compo Road North, which could create a dangerous situation there.
It seems much more convenient—and safer for everyone—to place the two fenced-in areas on the large lawn on the Post Road end of the park, where dogs are already required to be leashed. Owners could easily park there in either parking lot and walk their dogs directly to either fenced section without having to pass through the off-leash areas. This would allow those who prefer or need fenced spaces to use them comfortably, while preserving the current off-leash experience that so many dogs and owners already enjoy in the rest of the park.