If you usually take your four-legged friends to Hammond Park Nice for some exercise, you’ll need to change your plans for the next few weeks. County officials have announced that the dog park has temporarily closed its gates. The closure went into effect on Monday, May 18th, as crews push forward with the broader Hammond Park Improvement project. Officials say shutting down the dog park during this phase is strictly a matter of public safety. It allows contractors to safely and efficiently wrap up a long list of upgrades. Pet owners can look forward to some major changes when the gates swing back open. The planned improvements include upgraded fencing, brand-new site amenities, better accessibility, enhanced landscaping, and crucial drainage fixes to keep the area dry and safe. The Public Services Department expects construction to wrap up by July of this year, with the revamped facility set to officially reopen later this summer. The county is asking residents for their patience and understanding as they work to improve the space.