Waukee announces 2019 opening for the city's first dog park

Waukee will open its first dog park in early 2019, city officials announced Friday. 

Construction of the dog park is nearing completion and Waukee Parks and Recreation Department expect to open the park to the public as weather allows, likely in March.

The four-acre Trailside Dog Park is located at 590 SE Brick Drive in Waukee, directly south of the Heart of the Warrior Trail.

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“We think it’s a great opportunity that this park is located along the Heart of the Warrior Trail,” said Waukee Parks and Recreation Director Matt Jermier. “Dog owners can utilize the trail to get to the Trailside Dog Park. And residents without dogs can also take advantage of the park restrooms and drinking fountain if they need a stop while out for a ride or a run on the trail.”

Trailside Dog Park features 21 parking stalls, separated areas for large and small dogs, dog waste stations, a shade structure, concrete walking paths, open green space and bicycle racks.

Waukee Mayor Bill Peard said he thinks visitors will be impressed by the new amenity and that the dog park "is just one of several" park projects the city has planned for the coming years.

“The park has a lot to offer citizens and their dogs. We are excited to open the gates come spring,” said Peard.

Park passes will be available for purchase beginning Jan. 7. Annual passes cost $25 for each Waukee dog. Non-resident passes are $45 per dog. Daily passes are also available for $5.

Waukee residents will be required to license each dog with the city prior to purchasing a Trailside Dog Park pass.

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