Paw Meadow Dog Park Takes a Big Step Forward

Paw Meadow Dog Park took a huge leap forward this week as the land was being cleared and an official groundbreaking took place on Thursday.

It is hoped that the park, located near the Performing Arts Center at Simsbury Meadows off Iron Horse Boulevard, may be opened this fall, said Nikki Perry, who does the marketing for the park.

Paw Meadow is a joint effort between the Simsbury Culture, Parks and Recreation Department and a committee of local residents. The town is providing the land. All other expenses — clearing, construction, materials, maintenance, amenities, etc. — will be paid for through fundraising efforts.

Paine’s Inc., of Simsbury, has donated much of the effort to clear the spot.

Fundraising efforts, such as the Strut Your Mutt and photos with Santa Paws, and individual donation in various sizes have inched the group closer to the initial fundraising goal of $30,000 to $35,000.

“We have enough to start construction,” said Perry, who added the group is close to the $35,000 figure in fundraising.

The fundraising will be ongoing, as there will be continuing maintenance for the park.

There are plans for another Santa Paws event and possibly a Halloween event.

Paw Meadow will offer off-leash recreation for dogs. The site will have plenty of room for dogs to run and play, easy access and free parking.

There will be a section for smaller dogs to play away from the larger dogs as well.

Plans for the park include fencing with a double gate-entry and handicap access, a paw friendly surface, benches for human comfort, canine and human drinking fountains, signage and landscaping.

It is estimated that the town has about 2,400 dogs.

The Paw Meadow Dog Park Committee is also developing rules and safety measures.

The dog park supporters are grateful to all those who have helped thus far, especially the town employees who got on board early and have helped the project get going.

“He’s been great from day one,” said Sally Garlick, of town engineer Rich Sawitzke.

Garlick is a member of the group and often the person underneath the Paws costume at fundraising events.

For more information go to http://www.pawmeadowdogpark.org or email info@pawmeadowdogpark.org.

You can mail a donation to Paw Meadow, Town of Simsbury, P.O. Box 495, Simsbury, CT 06070. Write Paw Meadow Dog Park in the memo section of your check.