Duke’s Dog Park
Tracy, CA
Designed by Gates Studio in collaboration with Surland Companies, Duke’s Dog Park is a 2.5-acre public amenity within the Ellis master-planned community in Tracy, California. Officially opened in 2025, the park honors K9 Duke, a San Joaquin County Sheriff’s Office police dog who gave his life in the line of duty. It serves as a place where thoughtful design supports daily life, honors service, and strengthens the bond between people, pets, and the landscape they share.
The park design includes separate areas for large and small dogs, each featuring natural turf and decomposed granite surfacing, agility elements, cooling mist features, and drinking fountains with integrated dog bowls. A central plaza connects the two zones, with shade, seating, picnic tables, and a community information board to encourage social interaction. Shade trees define the park’s edges and provide welcome relief in Tracy’s warm climate. A secure perimeter fence ensures safe, off-leash play.
This project was completed in 2023.
Designing for Play and Connection in a Planned Community
The Concept Design
The concept design for Duke’s Dog park shows a large, open entry plaza acting as the intersection between the large dog and small dog areas, while fencing keeps each area separate and secure.
Project Details
A shade structure covers picnic tables in each dog area.
A custom gateway sign marks the entrance to the dog park.
The agility area features dog play elements and seating.