THOMASTON, Maine — Supporters of a dog park in town have started to raise money to make the project a reality.
Town residents approved the use of town land for the park at a special town meeting on Nov. 5. The plans are the result of work done by a committee appointed by the town in 2013.
The slightly more than 3 acres is located on the east side of the Sunrise section of the Village Cemetery.
The Thomaston Dog Park Association has begun the steps to incorporate as a non-profit organization with a board of directors. The money to create the park will be raised privately and no tax dollars will be involved.
Plans for the park include a large enclosed, fully-secure open area with a double-gated entry system. There will be a separate fenced area for smaller dogs or others who prefer not to use the larger park. The property will include generous parking space, a protective shelter, shaded areas for both people and dogs, benches for ample seating, water, and rubbish containers for waste, the association stated in its news release. Mowed walking paths outside the fenced area also will be available for leashed dogs and owners.
Association Vice President Jane Farthing of Thomaston said Thursday that $40,000 is needed to get the park up and running. She said the hope is for the work to be done this summer but an opening date has not been determined.
The association is selling newly-designed Thomaston Dog Park bumper stickers as part of its fundraising effort. The stickers are available at the Thomaston Town Office, Chambers Jewelers, The Loyal Biscuit, Hollydachs, and Pet Quarters for a minimum donation of $5.
The Thomaston Dog Park Association also has set up an account with the recycling company Clynk so that community members can contribute redeemable bottles and cans. Customized bags are available by contacting the Thomaston Dog Park Association and once filled can be dropped at any Clynk location including Hannaford in Rockland. Donations will automatically be added to The Thomaston Dog Park Fundraising account. People already with a Clynk account can donate online to the Thomaston Dog Park fundraising mission.
“Support is needed from dog owners, dog lovers, community members and businesses to help make this park a reality for all to enjoy in the years to come. An early spring community fundraising event is being planned and will be announced shortly,” the association stated.
For more information on the park and fundraising efforts or to stay informed on progress and events, contact the association by email at thomastondogparkmaine@gmail.com or visit facebook.com/ThomastonDogParkAssociation.