​City of Wisconsin Rapids seeks community input on naming its new dog park

WISCONSIN RAPIDS – The City of Wisconsin Rapids seeks community input on naming its new dog park, located on Saratoga Street, between 24th Street North and 25th Street North. (The site does not yet have an address.)

From August 1st through September 1st at noon, the public may submit naming suggestions online at: wirapids.org/dog-park

Additionally, the public can submit naming suggestions in person at the following locations:
• Wisconsin Rapids Parks and Recreation Department, 220 3rd Avenue South, Suite 3
• Witter Park Aquatics Center, 681 Chestnut Street
• McMillan Memorial Library, 490 E Grand Avenue
• South Wood County Humane Society, 3621 64th Street N
• Bow Wow Meow, 231 Lincoln Street

Those submitting a suggestion are asked to share their name and contact information, so that they may be recognized if their suggestion is selected. They are not required to identify themselves, however. Participants are asked to refrain from using any inappropriate or suggestive language, or any political references in the park name. All other suggestions will be considered.

In September, the community will be asked to vote on the dog park’s name from a short list of options. The dog park’s name will be announced at the ribbon cutting ceremony in October.

“Since becoming mayor, I have been determined to secure a large dog park in Wisconsin Rapids – one which could remain open indefinitely. I appreciate the significant contribution of staff in helping me meet this goal. Thank you also to the Parks and Recreation Commission for their support. Now, I want to hear from the community – what will our dog park be called? I look forward to hearing your ideas,” said Mayor Shane Blaser.

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 November 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