Dogs have their day; New dog park opened

(Above) The Chamber of Commerce First Mates helped the city’s Parks and Recreation Department cut the ribbon on its new dog park Friday.

The 2.5 acre dog park is located on 12th Avenue South, just north of the McKesson Distribution Center.-Reporter photo.

A ribbon cutting ceremony was held Friday morning to officially open the new Clear Lake Dog Park on 12th Avenue South.  About 30 persons— and three dogs— attended the event.

Chyrl Bergvig, chair of the city’s Parks and Recreation Board and leader of the Dog Park effort, said about $40,000 was raised for the dog park, with another $50,000 given as in-kind donations during the past three years.

“I think this is a great addition to our community and I thank those who helped to make it a reality by contributing in so many ways,” said Bergvig.

P&R Director Randy Miller said all but $4,000 needed to construct the park was funded through donations.

“I would say that we have a $75,000 to $100,000 dog park which used only $4,000 of taxpayer dollars.  I am extremely happy to say that we accomplished that,” said Miller.  “I am proud of the community.”

After a ribbon cutting ceremony conducted by the Chamber of

[wlm_nonmember]To read more of this article, please login or sign up for our E-Edition[/wlm_nonmember]

[wlm_ismember]

Commerce, along with Parks Board members and city officials, the 2.5 acre dog park was opened for use.

The park features two fenced grass areas— one for big dogs and one for smaller dogs.  A double gate entry and exit system provides extra security as owners come and go with their dogs.  Both areas feature benches.

Bergvig said more donations are still welcomed to fund amenities such as a fountain and additional landscaping.

[/wlm_ismember]