Rick, a Charlestown resident, and Dusty, his 4 year old golden Labrador, say they’ve “been coming to the park for 18 months now, and between 4 p.m. to dusk there are anywhere between two to 30 or more dogs.”

  According to Rick, people like the park because “it’s secluded and has a killer view.” The traffic on the bridges high above seems to fade into the far off distance as dogs of all sizes play chase the ball, the game of choice. Collies, Boxers, and dogs of all ages and sizes run off leash as owners supervise play time with a close watch. Puppies and smaller dogs tend to gravitate towards one another, mingling, while long haired Collies, Salukis and larger breeds play their own games of chase. Trees and flowers surround the outskirts of the open green area criss-crossed with ambling walkways; joggers often make use of this paved and serene area.

  Smiles line the faces of all the business class people enjoying a moment off work as tails happily wag greeting new and old friends. Next door to the dog free-for-all is a fenced-in children’s park, where parents can bring the whole family to enjoy the safe and peaceful atmosphere. Everyone is relaxed and happy to be outside smelling the fresh cut grass.

  Dog owners at the park are courteous, being sure to bring their own clean up bags, and keeping the park spotless from litter of any kind. Even as the sun sets, dogs smile in a way only their owners can tell, content to go home after such an exciting afternoon of play and scents and people.