The City of Fitchburg is pleased to announce that we have been awarded a grant from the Stanton Foundation for the design of a new Dog Park to be located at Coolidge Park. The grant will go before the City Council for final approval before design begins.
The dog park design is entirely funded through a $22,920 grant from the Stanton Foundation to prepare for a proposed $230,000 project, of which approximately $207,000 will be provided by the Foundation. The Stanton Foundation was created by Dr. Frank Stanton, former president of CBS, and supports research and traditional grant programs to promote canine welfare and strengthen the human-dog bond.
Mayor DiNatale agrees, “This will be wonderful opportunity for dog owners to exercise their dogs, let them run free and socialize them. However, it’s important to remember that the owners will play a big role in the success of this park, they still must monitor their canine’s activity and behavior.”
The proposed dog park would be installed in the former swimming hole at Coolidge Park and will consist of two fenced in areas for large or small dogs. An off-lease space for dogs has long been a discussion for the Board of Park Commissioners. In 2015 the Friends of Fitchburg DOGs was incorporated and partnered with the Board of Park Commissioners to explore potential locations. During the design phase public information sessions will be held to solicit feedback on the final design.
“This’s project has been a long time coming, the Fitchburg Board of Park Commissioners are always looking for ways to improve and expand upon the many amazing assets in our parks system. I am extremely excited at the opportunity the Stanton Foundation has provided us to create a first rate dog park for our residents to enjoy,” said Jon Ricciutti, Chairman of the Board of Park Commissioners.
“We are so thrilled that the Stanton Foundation will be supporting the design and construction of our first official dog park in Fitchburg! This 1 acre dog park will support our community dogs and pet parents with a beautiful new play & exercise space,” says Sam Squailia, President of the Friends of Fitchburg DOGS. “For this grant, the Friends of Fitchburg DOGS, Inc. have committed to raise 10% of the construction costs, so we need to raise at least another $11k to make this park a reality! See our plans, donate and join our effort at www.fitchburgdogpark.org”
The Friends of Fitchburg DOGS is a non-profit 501(c)3 organization comprised of dedicated volunteers who support the creation of a dog park to support the Fitchburg Community.