New Vernon Dog Park Officially Opens

VERNON, CT — The Saxony Dog Park in Vernon made its official debut on Monday morning.

Town officials presided over an official ribbon-cutting ceremony at 10. It is located at Regan and West streets.

The Vernon Town Council in January approved plans to build the dog park on a flat parcel of municipal land — the Saxony Mill property. 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, contributed to the efforts as part of his Eagle project. He contacted Connecticut Water Co. for some old hydrants that were taken out of service and refurbished them. The water company donated the connection for a water fountain for both humans and canines. Veron Mayor Daniel Champagne said the pipes and fountain were installed last week.

Other obtacles Boyer worked on include tunnels and tires.

The dog park consists of a two-area, fenced-in park with one side for large dogs (20 pounds and heavier) and the other side for small dogs (lighter than 20). The park also features a poop bag dispenser.

There is a parking lot adjacent to Reagan Street.

The park will maintained through some town work, private donations and fundraising efforts, according to the plans.