Construction is slated to begin on Hermann Park’s latest addition, the McWilliams Dog Park, following a Feb. 22 groundbreaking ceremony.

Located between South MacGregor Way and Brays Bayou, the more than 2.5 acres of land will be transformed into an off-the-leash dog park. Features will include a dog wash station, play equipment and dedicated areas for large and small dogs.

The park’s campaign is $140,000 short of its $2 million donation goal, according to Doreen Stoller, president of the Hermann Park Conservancy. A total of 25% of the funds are planned to go toward any future emergency maintenance.

“A dog park was our most requested feature,” Hermann Park Conservancy Chair Kristy Bradshaw said during the groundbreaking ceremony.

The project marks the first act in Hermann Park’s 20-year master plan of improvements.

“One of my tasks is to re-establish Houston’s park system as one of the world renowned park systems in not just Texas but the nation,” said Kenneth Allen, director of Houston’s Parks and Recreation Department, during the ceremony.

Completion of the park is scheduled for the end of this year, according to Stoller.