Warren County Board Receives NAR Placemaking Grant to Help with Dog Park

The Warren County Board of Realtors® was awarded a Placemaking Grant from NAR to help with funding for a community dog park.

The idea for a dog park came together years ago, said Warren County Realtor® Karlene Smith, who is also on the board for the dog park. However, the park kept hitting roadblocks, mostly from neighbors who had concerns about it.

Fortunately, the Warren County Visitors Bureau relocated, and had an acre and half of land that wasn’t developed, said Smith.

“They gave us a good deal and we were able to buy it inexpensively. Because of the location, there are no real houses around it and while some nearby neighbors did have concerns about the access roads, we were able to debunk those concerns.”

NAR’s Placemaking Grant came in to help put in a handicapped ramp, said Smith.

“The park gives the dogs a place to exercise and run off a leash. Dogs are pack animals and they like to socialize. It gives the owners a chance to socialize too,” said Smith. “We have a heavy senior population and a lot of these seniors are by themselves. It gives them a chance to get out and socialize. It will take care of a lot of lonely people.”

Additionally, the board hopes to raise money to put some benches along the park, so owners can sit while their pups play. They are selling banners to help cover some of the cost, which can be purchased by contacting [email protected].

“We are planning to try and host activities there, like puppy training classes,” said Smith. “We’re always looking for volunteers.”