The New York City Parks Department ordered the dog run at Herbert Von King Park in Brooklyn to be shut down indefinitely after laboratory analysis of soil samples identified arsenic and mercury concentrations that exceed the state’s residential soil safety limits. The closure was announced late on Friday, August 21, 2026, following the department’s routine testing program.
The soil testing was part of the Parks Department’s periodic assessments aimed at ensuring that public recreation areas meet health and environmental standards. Results showed that both arsenic and mercury were present at levels higher than those permitted for residential settings, prompting the immediate cessation of public access to the dog run. The department cited the need to protect the health of park users, particularly the many dogs and owners who frequent the area.
Herbert Von King Park’s dog run is a well‑used facility for local residents, providing a space for canine exercise and social interaction. The indefinite closure means that owners will have to seek alternative locations while the department evaluates the site. No further details on remediation or a timeline for reopening were released at the time of the announcement.
The Parks Department’s ongoing soil monitoring program is designed to detect contaminants before they pose a risk to the public. This incident underscores the importance of regular environmental testing in urban parks, especially in high‑traffic areas such as dog runs. Residents are advised to stay informed through official city communications for updates on the status of the Herbert Von King Park dog run.