WISCONSIN RAPIDS, WI (WSAU) — They’re almost ready to unveil the new Dog Park in Wisconsin Rapids.
Mayor Shane Blaser says they’ve sprayed down the buckthorn that developed in the open area earlier this summer and now they’re just waiting to establish some grass before they let the dogs roam free in the area. He says at that point the city’s portion will be at substantial completion.
“It’s coming along nicely. The parking lot has been paved. We have some landscaping to do, and we want to have a concrete path to each entrance,” said Blaser. “We’ll paint some lines [yet], but it’s moving right along.”
Blaser says special features for both human and canine users will likely come further down the years, meaning the park will be continually evolving. Those items will likely be spearheaded by a user group that will raise funds while working with the parks department to arrange for installation. “They’re getting involved and kind of adopting the park. Eventually, I would think there would be a pavilion area, agility toys, and things like that.”
Finding room for a dog park in the city has been one of Blaer’s priorities since he took office. He adds that his focus has always been on having a space that the city owned and maintained while having a citizen user group that coordinated fundraising for improvements.
The city is also taking suggestions for the park’s name through the city website and dropboxes located at various locations throughout the city. Around 150 online submissions have been made so far.
The park is located on Saratoga Street between 24th Street North and 25th Street North. More information on how to donate to the park and submit a potential name for the park can be found on the city’s website.
Other topics Mayor Blaser discussed with WSAU’s Mike Leischner include:
Start of video- Starting the 2024 budget process
4:45- Dog park update
10:50- Possible ATV/UTV ordinance
