The dog run at Herbert Von Von King Park in the Bedford‑Stuyvesant neighborhood of Brooklyn was shut on August 23, 2026 after soil testing identified the presence of arsenic and mercury. City officials announced the closure following the laboratory results, describing the metals as hazardous and unsuitable for a public play area for dogs.
The affected area is a frequently used space where local residents bring their pets for exercise and socialization. The discovery of the contaminants prompted an immediate response to prevent further exposure, and the park's management posted notices at the site and on the city's online platform to inform the community of the shutdown.
Testing that led to the decision was part of a routine environmental assessment of public spaces in New York City. The analysis revealed detectable levels of both arsenic and mercury in the soil beneath the dog run. While the exact concentrations were not disclosed, officials characterized the findings as a health risk that warranted prompt action.
The closure affects dog owners throughout Bed‑Stuy, a neighborhood that relies on the park's amenities for daily recreation. Residents who regularly use the dog run are being advised to seek alternative locations until the site can be remediated and cleared for safe use again. The city has indicated that a plan for cleanup and further testing will be developed, though a timeline for reopening has not been set.
Authorities emphasized that the safety of park visitors, including pets, remains a priority. They urged the public to stay informed through official communications as the situation progresses, and to avoid the dog run area until it is officially declared safe.