MISHAWAKA, Ind. -- The City of Mishawaka and Indiana Michigan Power announced that Pricket Marina Dog Park will be temporarily closed on Thursday and Friday out of caution during an ongoing utility upgrade.

I&M officials say they will be moving forward with its East Mishawaka Transmission Line Project.

Crews will install safety fencing in the park to secure the construction site so crews can trim trees and vegetation away from high-voltage power lines.

“Safety for the public and our employees is the top priority,” said Mona Livingston, I&M’s Business Operations Support Manager. “I&M and the City of Mishawaka decided it would be best to protect park visitors and their pets with additional safety measures. We know the closure is an inconvenience for many in the area and we will work to restore the park as quickly and safely as possible.”

The dog park, located on Jefferson Boulevard near the Saint Joseph River, will remain partially open to the community after the fence is installed.

Officials say the southern part of the park will be open, while the northern half will be closed through early summer, weather permitting.

“During the duration of the project, we encourage community members to keep your distance from workers and equipment for your safety,” said, Matthew Lentsch, Executive Director of Development and Governmental Affairs. “We will collaborate with I&M to ensure safety for those visiting the park and that there is minimal impact to the park itself. We appreciate the community understanding and working with us and I&M.”

I&M's ongoing project involves rebuilding almost four miles of high-voltage power lines and replacing aging towers from the 1920s with modern steel poles.

You can find more information on the project here.