Floods close recently reopened dog park again

HOUSTON (FOX 26) - A new day, but a not so new problem for dogs and humans alike heading out to the Johnny Steele Dog Park along the Buffalo Bayou.

“Every couple of months, we can’t use it," said Jereann who was out walking the trails near the dog park on Thursday, one day after the Buffalo Bayou rose out of its banks and flooded the area.

Whether stuck in the mud or stopped by caution tape, people saw, yet again, the effects of a swift Buffalo Bayou rise out of its banks. Sad thing is that just 3 weeks ago, the Johnny Steele Dog Park reopened after getting an eight month makeover following Harvey.

“It was looking great, yeah, and I’m actually surprised that it’s still in decent shape after the water receded so that’s a good sign," said Jeff Parke who was also checking out the muddy mess.

Marcos Melendez and his yorkie Alie not only having to change plans yesterday, with Freedom Over Texas being canceled, but now this.

“I’m glad they fixed it. I mean it could’ve been worse when Harvey happened, but it’s not so just give it a few days and it should be back to normal," said Melendez.

The hope is that it’ll be open again in one week, but it might take two according Trudi Smith, Director of PR and Events for the Buffalo Bayou Partnership.

“We need to drain the pond that’s here, clean it up, fill it back up, and kind of wait for all the area to dry out a little bit so it’s not as muddy," said Smith.

Downstream, crews drying out and cleaning up what was to be a packed out Freedom Over Texas. All equipment was recovered and refunds are being given to guests who had purchased tickets.