New Vernon Dog Park Taking Shape

VERNON, CT — The new dog park in the Rockville section of Vernon is taking shape. Fencing was up this week.

The Vernon Town Council in January approved plans to build the dog park on a flat parcel of municipal land — the Saxony Mill property at the corner of Regan and West streets. It has a $61,000 estimated price tag and sponsors and donations could offset the public contributions from the general fund, town officials said.

Mark Boyer, a local Eagle Scout candidate, has agreed to contribute to the efforts as part of his Eagle project, according to the commitee.

The dog park would consist of a two-area, fenced-in park with one side for large dogs
and the other side for small dogs (weights to be determined), according to a report on the plans.

The park will offer a water fountain for both "humans and dogs," town officials said. The supply line for a drinking fountain would be installed during construction with the water costing about $500 per year, according to a report.

The park would be maintained through private donations and fundraising efforts, according to the initial plans. Optional costs for added amenities could cost $7,000. Any of the amenities could be added at any time with no extra cost, according to the plans. Sponsors could pay for added equipment, according to the report.

The plan is to have the park ready for the summer months, but a set of rules like cleanup will be released at a later date, town officials said. Parking would be along Regan Street.