Severe damage from dog waste forces Houston park's temporary closure

HOUSTON, Texas (KTRK) -- Excessive foot traffic and dog waste have forced the temporary closure of Bethel Park in Fourth Ward Houston.

Plans call for landscape renovation on the property. A fence is keeping out further damage.

The park is inside the former Bethel Baptist Church, which was funded by former slaves.

Once restorations are complete, it will re-open, but only at specific hours so someone can monitor visitors.