MAYOR PALMIERI ANNOUNCES OPENING UTICA’S FIRST-EVER DOG PARK WITH COUNCILMAN BETRUS

Utica Mayor Robert M. Palmieri, along with North Utica Councilman Joseph Betrus, announced the opening of Utica’s first-ever dog park at Cinderella Field.

Councilman Betrus spearheaded the formation of the North Utica Dog Park with his district’s share of $200,000, an amount allocated to each councilperson’s district. The City of Utica expanded the project by resurfacing the parking lot at Cinderella Field to ensure smoother access as well as better flood mitigation than in years past.

The construction of two dog parks, the other being at T.R. Proctor Park, are part of an effort to diversify the Utica parks system to allow residents more outdoor opportunities for recreation and fitness. Both projects are a result of the Utica Prosperity Initiative’s emphasis on providing a healthier, more diverse park system and are funded by the American Rescue Plan Act.

Mayor Palmieri said: “We need to make sure all of our residents find parks that meet their needs – including our four-legged residents. Utica is lucky to host a wonderful and large park system, the third-largest park system in New York. North Utica is a great place for our first-ever dog park, and I know the people of North Utica will take great care of this unique asset.”  

Councilman Betrus said: “North Utica is a place for family, and dogs are a part of many of those families. I’m happy that North Utica was the site of the first dog park in Utica’s history. I’m committed to keep fighting to make the parks better in North Utica. And this beautiful facility is just the start.”