Nine Years of Community, Connection, and a Courageous Legacy

This June, we celebrate nine years since the opening of the Deputy Kotfila Memorial Dog Park, a shaded, pet-friendly park tucked beneath the Lee Roy Selmon Expressway along the Selmon Greenway. What began as a tribute to a fallen hero has grown into one of downtown Tampa’s most beloved gathering spaces, and this anniversary feels especially meaningful following a year of renewed reflection and remembrance.

Honoring the Man Behind the Memorial

Deputy John Robert Kotfila Jr. was a member of the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office whose life and service left a permanent mark on this community. In March 2016, Deputy Kotfila made the ultimate sacrifice on the Selmon Expressway, positioning his patrol car between an oncoming wrong-way driver and other motorists to protect those around him. 

Inspired by his deep bond with his German Shepherd, Dexter, THEA created this park as a living memorial, a place where families, neighbors, and their dogs could gather and play together. Nine years later, that vision is realized every day.

A Year of Remembrance: The Commemorative Bench Dedication

Earlier this year, the park hosted a ceremony marking the 10-year anniversary of Deputy Kotfila’s passing. On March 12, the Kotfila family, Hillsborough County law enforcement, and members of the Tampa community came together to dedicate a commemorative bench in his honor.

The ceremony featured remarks from THEA Executive Director & CEO, Greg Slater, Hillsborough County Sheriff, Chad Chronister, Representative Danny Alvarez (unable to attend but prepared remarks via his aide), and Deputy Kotfila’s father, John Kotfila Sr., who shared memories of his son’s life, service, and the lasting impact he made on the people he served.

The bench is an enduring reminder of Deputy Kotfila’s legacy and service.

A Space That Brings People Together

Located next to Bell Channelside Apartments along the Selmon Greenway, the park was thoughtfully designed to be welcoming and safe for pets and their owners alike. It features:

• Canine turf for durability and year-round comfort
• Separate play areas for small and large dogs
• Water fountains with pet bowls to keep everyone hydrated
• Comfortable seating so owners can relax while their pups explore

Come Visit and Bring Your Pup

Nine years in, the Deputy Kotfila Memorial Dog Park remains a place where Tampa comes together. Whether you’re a longtime regular or visiting for the first time, we invite you to experience this special space for yourself.

Bring your dog. Take a moment at the commemorative bench. And know that every visit is part of a living tribute to a man who gave everything for this community.

Deputy John Robert Kotfila Jr. Memorial Dog Park — along the Selmon Greenway, adjacent to Bell Channelside Apartments, Tampa, FL

Share your visit with us! Post your photos using #KotfilaMemorialDogPark and #SelmonGreenway, and tag us @theaselmon, We love seeing the community (and all the cute pups) that make this place so special.