(January 25, 2005) -- LB's three-acre Dog Zone on the Belmont Shore beachfront has received the "Park Planning Achievement Award" from the CA Parks and Recreation Society for excellence in design of a recreation area that "promotes participation in recreational experiences, strengthens community image, protects environmental resources, and facilitates community problem solving."

The beachfront dog zone between Roycroft and Argonne Aves. started as a pilot program in August 2003, largely in response to efforts by internet whiz and dog enthusiast Justin Rudd to create a permanent local venue for owners to take their licensed dogs for off-leash play and exercise. In September 2004, the LB City Council voted to make the Dog Zone a permanent recreational opportunity, the only L.A. County beach area currently permitting dog access.

LB's Dept. of Parks, Recreation & Marine says in a written release that CPRS recognized the extensive process involved in creating the Dog Zone including location selection, analysis of impact on other beach users, establishing maintenance and water testing practices to ensure beach and water quality standards, and adopting operating rules and regulations.

CPRS also acknowledged efforts to outreach to citizens during the proposal phase including consulting local dog associations and working with the City’s Marine Advisory Commission to conduct public forums to present the project and hear issues from residents.

CPRS will present its "Park Planning Achievement Award" for LB's Dog Zone to LB's Dept. of Parks, Recreation & Marine at the CPRS Awards and Installation Banquet in Sacramento on March 13.