Off-leash spaces activate underutilized land, promote sustainable placemaking
Choice Properties is transforming retail properties into ESG-forward community hubs with purpose-built dog runs. These off-leash spaces activate underused areas and provide safe, accessible outdoor space for residents, visitors, and their pets.
Transforming Underutilized Spaces Into Gathering Places
Each dog run spans approximately 5,000 SF, featuring double-fenced entries, separate areas for small and large dogs, paw-friendly surfaces, solar lighting, waste stations, shade pergolas, and native landscaping. Open daily from 7 AM to 10 PM, these spaces support our placemaking approach by enhancing the everyday experience for visitors and nearby residents.
Site Selection Approach
Data-driven site selection ensures maximum impact. Locations are chosen based on high concentrations of dog ownership and limited access to enclosed outdoor areas. This ESG-informed approach maximizes social benefit and community engagement while enhancing neighborhood connectivity.
Community
Engagement in Action
Recent media coverage highlights these successes. Choice celebrated the HalloWOOF Costume Party in Barrie and Toronto, marking the launch of the Barrie dog run and the Toronto Redway dog run anniversary. Over 60 dogs and their owners attended, drawing support from MPs, MPPs, city councillors, and partners including Loblaw Companies Limited.
ESG Leadership Through Placemaking
Choice’s dog runs exemplify ESG leadership through placemaking, demonstrating how underutilized land can become vibrant, community-oriented spaces that deliver lasting social and environmental value.