FOR THE CITY TIMES

WISCONSIN RAPIDS — The City of Wisconsin Rapids has released a survey to select a name for the new dog park, located on Saratoga Street, between 24th Street North and 25th Street North (the site does not yet have an address).  

Now through 8 a.m. on Sept. 19, the public can respond to a survey of three names for the new dog park:  

• Rapids Park and Bark Dog Park 

• Rapids Barks and Rec Dog Park 

• Rapids Room to Zoom Dog Park 

The public may respond to the survey online at: wirapids.org/dog-park. 

Additionally, the public can respond to the survey by visiting the Wisconsin Rapids Parks and Recreation Department at 220 3rd Avenue South, Suite 3, or by calling them at 715-421-8240.  

From August 1 through Sept. 1, the public submitted 296 dog park names to the City of Wisconsin Rapids. Staff worked together to narrow the list down to six top choices, based on the appropriateness and marketability of the names. On Sept. 11, the Parks and Recreation Commission discussed the list provided by staff and selected three park names for the public to vote on. The name selected for the dog park will be used on park signage, marketing and branding materials, and website.  

“I really enjoyed reviewing the park name suggestions,” said Mayor Shane Blaser. “The community’s love for canines was evident. I want to thank the public for their thoughtful suggestions, and I want to thank city staff and the Parks and Recreation Commission for their support. I look forward to unveiling the park name at a ribbon-cutting  ceremony in October,” Blaser added. 

A site was selected for the approximately 10-acre dog park in 2022 and staff conducted appropriate research to ensure the site would work well as a dog park. On Nov. 14, 2022, the Parks and Recreation Commission voted in favor of moving forward with the dog park plans and expenditures, including clearing and grubbing and installation of fencing, not to exceed $130,000, which is being funded by room tax revenues. Room tax revenues are collected from all of the city’s lodging establishments and tourist rooming houses.  

While the necessities for the project are fully funded by room tax revenues, the public is encouraged to  consider providing financial donations or investing in larger sponsorship opportunities to help furnish the  dog park with a pavilion, agility equipment, park signage and more. Memorial opportunities will also be available. Contact the Parks and Recreation Department at 715-421-8240 to learn more about investment opportunities. Donation checks can be mailed to: City of Wisconsin Rapids, Attn: Finance Department, 444 W. Grand Ave., Wisconsin Rapids, WI 54495.

*Include note that the check is for “Dog Park.” Donations can be made online at: wirapids.org/dog-park. 

To learn more about the dog park and view video footage of the transformation of the park space, visit: wirapids.org/dog-park.