Hello Newtonians and furry friends,
As the saying goes, “Time flies when you’re having fun,” and nothing epitomizes this sentiment more than the 7th anniversary of the Centennial Dog Park.
More than a Dog Park, A Community Cornerstone 🌳🏠
Situated on a 2.17-acre expanse north of the Blue Sky Sculpture at Centennial Park, this isn’t just a place for dogs to stretch their legs. It’s a space where people from all walks of life can connect and find joy and comfort.
A Journey of a Thousand Paws 🐾
A dog park was already identified as something the community wanted through open houses, public forums, and focus groups, and so was included in the City’s ReNewton 2030 Plan, which was a 20 year comprehensive plan for Newton, KS and North Newton, KS. Prior to 2012, there was discussion about adding park fencing funds to the budget during a happy fiscal year, but unfortunately it didn’t come to fruition.
In 2012, we were receiving the same information from our local clients: a dog park would be an important improvement to Newton. Blue Skies Pet Care started the Newton Dog Park Project and initiated a project that would change the community for the better. Through fundraising, events, community support, dedication, and a whole lot of love for our furry companions, Centennial Dog Park became a reality on September 27, 2016.
It Takes a Village 🏡🐾
Our journey wouldn’t have been the same without the love and commitment of local individuals, local government, organizations, and businesses. Together, we’ve created more than just a dog park; you’ve built a community space where people come together, forming bonds that go beyond the leash.
A special shoutout to the City of Newton for listening to and working with community members that advocated for this amenity. The City owns the property and maintains this wonderful public park! There’s a lot to be said for the people that continue the work once the advocating and fundraising is done and everyone calls it a job well done!🏛️🌳
Our Beliefs Stand Strong 🌱
The vision for a Newton, KS Dog Park was clear:
- To have well-socialized and exercised dogs enrich our families and neighborhoods.
- To provide a centralized, safe location for our four-legged friends to roam freely.
- To offer a place for all to enjoy with their canine companions.
And we’re thrilled to see those beliefs become everyday realities.
Sustainability through Community 🌿👫
While the Newton Dog Park Project has achieved its initial mission, the ongoing success of Centennial Dog Park relies on the community’s continued involvement. Whether it’s keeping the area clean, ensuring pets are well-behaved, or simply respecting the space, your active participation keeps this dream alive.
How to Be a Good Park Steward 🌱
- Clean Up: Always pick up after your dog. Even better, pick up a second that isn’t yours.
- Be Mindful: Make sure your dog plays well with others.
- Contribute: While formal donations aren’t sought, the park flourishes when we all pitch in.
- Engage: Get to know your fellow dog lovers. Community makes the park what it is.
Let’s continue to be the good humans our dogs think we are.
Let’s Celebrate Together! 🎈
As the weather cools and folks start spending longer times at the park, join us at Centennial Dog Park through the month of September to celebrate its 7th anniversary with this journey in mind! It’s the perfect time to make new friends, reacquaint with old ones, share stories, and of course, let our dogs have the time of their lives.
Thank you, Newton, for 7 wonderful years. Here’s to many more!
