Swampscott board OKs dog park

SWAMPSCOTT – The Board of Selectmen unanimously approved allowing a dog park in Phillips Park. The project was conceived by an ad hoc group of residents who have named the project Swampscott Park for Off-Leash Time (SPOT). Farragut Road resident Marc Eichler said the proposed park would utilize approximately half an acre in Phillips Park in the vicinity of the former Kids Cove playground.In October 2008, the selectmen voted unanimously to approve the project with the caveat that the group come back to the selectmen before they break ground.Eichler said the plans call for a five-foot high fence on all four sides and a double gate to prevent dogs from getting out accidentally. He added the project would not cut off public access to the soccer fields located in the rear of the park if the park is located in Phillips Park.Eichler said he expects the project to cost $20,000 and the group, which is a registered non-profit, has raised approximately $2,000 to date and is stepping up its fundraising efforts.The committee is expected to appear before the selectmen this evening to request permits for two fundraising events. The committee wants to set up a table on Town Hall lawn during the Strawberry Festival on June 28 to accept donations and sell items. It is also requesting a permit for a “Bark in the Park” event on Aug. 2 from 2-5 p.m. in Phillips Park.”It’ll be a fun and educational event,” he said. “We will have vendors set up tables with all kinds of information. There is no admission charge for people and we’ll have fun activities for the kids.”Eichler said other upcoming events would include a silent auction Sept. 10 at Finz in Salem.Anyone who would like to contribute can do so online at www.bigbluespot.org or by sending a donation to SPOT, 87 Salem St., Swampscott, MA 01907.