Who We Are: We are a volunteer group of Newtown resident dog-lovers, who have joined forces in order to establish an official off-leash dog park here in town. The town has agreed to provide a piece of land if we can raise the necessary funds to construct a park. Our responsibilities include marketing, fundraising, park design, establishing park rules, and advocating among the necessary town committees and constituents impacted by this project. Left: Chloe Freedman, who submitted the winning entry for naming the dog park.
Mission & Vision: Our goal is to raise funds through grants and donations in order to pay for construction materials and ongoing maintenance of the park. We envision two separate fenced areas for small (or older) dogs and for larger dogs to play; year-round drinking water; agility course elements; park benches and a memorial garden where residents can create a lasting tribute to beloved companion animals.
Proposed Location: Currently, our proposed site is an unused two-acre field on Old Farms Rd, off Wasserman Way, adjacent to the proposed new municipal dog pound, across the street from the existing Governor’s Horse Guard (see map). Currently undergoing soil testing. This site might require some clearing, leveling and seeding before fence installation. Water is available onsite, with minor plumbing enhancements required.
Park Maintenance: Once established, Parks & Recreation has agreed to perform annual lawn maintenance and weekly trash removal. Park & Bark volunteers will refill bag dispensers, post updates to bulletin boards, and assist with fundraising for new projects or maintenance, as needed. Dog owners will be responsible for cleaning up after their dogs and filling in any holes dug by their dog (biodegradable “mutt mitts” and topsoil will be provided onsite).
Why does Newtown need a Dog Park? There are currently 1,850 dogs registered in Newtown. Today, dogs are prohibited from entering town parks, and must be leashed on all public property. Official dog parks offer residents an opportunity to exercise and socialize their dogs in a safe and secure park setting, while getting to know other dog lovers in town. Over 40 Connecticut towns now have dog parks. Some towns have found them so popular, that they are adding a second and third!
Contact us:RoseAnn Reggiano
