September 16, 2009

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Renton's Unleashed Dog Park to hold Grand Opening, Dedication Festivities Sept. 19

Area dog lovers and volunteers will celebrate the Grand Opening and Dedication of Renton's Off-Leash Dog Park this Saturday, September 19, a project where volunteers stepped up to make it all happen despite tough economic times.

Begun just over a year ago, a small group of dog-lovers who had enjoyed off-leash parks elsewhere wanted a safe place to let their beloved pets to run without driving miles to West Seattle or Marymoor Park.

Because of the dog-park gap, dedicated dog owners began talks with the City of Renton, and out of that, a task force of community and City members formed in February 2008, according to Renton's Parks & Recreation liaison Kristine Stimpson.

The group was tasked to develop a workable plan that would identify a location and create a plan that could a dog park a reality. Around that time, volunteers formed Renton's Unleashed Furry Friends (RUFF) to raise donor funds to cover anticipated costs.

The task force met monthly to complete its work, and in October 2008, the group created a comprehensive plan, proposing that the location of the new dog park should be located at Narco, a former brick plant site adjacent to the Cedar River and Cedar River Trail. The site covers 4.5 acres.

Out of that submitted plan, the City of Renton committed to providing $50,000 for the project, but the deal was contingent upon volunteer contributions matching the same amount.

RUFF kicked into gear, raising funds from corporate and private individuals. They held two major events, "Wines n' Wags" and "Barks & Beers" at local establishments, pushing their fundraising totals even closer to the goal.

Local businesses also helped to push the construction schedule forward, with McLendon's supplying fencing materials and Perry Construction and Jim Jacques Construction assisting with construction expertise. So much progress had been made that the Park was able to open this past June.

To date, Stimpson said that private funds raised are now at around $45,000, far exceeding many's expectations.

"Support has been absolutely fabulous," said Stimpson. "Many cities take up to four years to do what we have done in just over a year."

Stimpson credits a good partnership with City and the public to make it all happen.

Festivities begin at 10 a.m. and run until noon. Stimpson said there will be a ceremony with Mayor Denis Law, refreshments, and recognition of all the dog park volunteers.

Light-hearted fun is also planned with contests for dogs in a variety of categories including smallest and largest dog and best “Lassie”, “Rin Tin Tin” and “Marley” look-a-likes.

Donations of pet food will be accepted for low-income seniors with pets.

Related Links:

April16, 2009: Local Group Targets Ambitious Goal; Fundraiser Set for Off-Leash Dog Park