Board approves special exception for indoor dog park at 6049 Broadway

The Town of Merrillville Board of Zoning Appeals approved a special exception for an indoor dog park proposed for 6049 Broadway, allowing the petitioner to open a site-specific facility that will provide indoor space for dogs to play, exercise and socialize. Petitioner Nedra Treadwell told the board she plans soft flooring, agility equipment, daily cleaning and staffed supervision.

Staff recommended approval for the indoor dog park as a special exception in the C-2 Community Commercial district, noting the unit's end-of-plaza location provides parking and separation from neighboring tenants. The staff report said the petitioner will be responsible for the outside walkway, will provide waste receptacles, and will install a soundproof wall on the shared tenant wall at this location only. The proposal called for five employees (three full time, two part time) and operating hours that initially focused on late-afternoon and early-evening peak use.

Board members asked about vaccination and health requirements, capacity, waste disposal, and whether patrons would be allowed to drop off dogs; the petitioner said vaccinations and additional intake requirements would be implemented with future daycare services and that initial operations will require owners to stay with their dogs. Several board members and staff noted a similar tenant across the street had operated without complaints.

A motion to approve the special exception for this location carried by majority vote; the approval is limited to the use at 6049 Broadway and to conditions described in the staff report.