RAHWAY — A long-awaited recreational upgrade for local pet owners is officially moving forward, with construction on the new Wheatena Dog Park scheduled to begin this spring at Wheatena Park in Rahway.
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The City Council approved the construction contract on Nov. 10, selecting Picerno-Giordano Construction of Kenilworth for the $435,150 project — the lowest of eight competitive bids received. The project will transform a portion of Union County–owned land at the corner of West Grand and Elizabeth avenues into a modern, amenity-rich dog park designed for dogs of all sizes and ages.
Crucially, the city will not need to rely on local taxpayer funds for the project. The dog park is being financed entirely through a $500,000 legislative grant from the New Jersey Department of Community Affairs, which will cover engineering, permitting, and construction expenses. The grant ensures the project supports community recreation while maintaining fiscal responsibility.
The new park is set to include a number of features commonly requested by residents over the last several years. Plans call for separate fenced areas for large and small dogs, secure double-gated entrances, dog-friendly play structures, and a shared water fountain for both dogs and their owners. A new walkway will also connect the entrances of the park to the surrounding neighborhood, making the area more accessible for families and visitors.
City officials say the dog park will serve both a recreational and community-building purpose. The facility will offer a safe space for dogs to run freely, socialize, and exercise while giving residents a gathering place that strengthens neighborhood connections. A use and maintenance agreement with Union County clears the way for the city to develop and manage the park long-term.
Mayor Raymond A. Giacobbe emphasized the importance of the project for the city’s continued development and community wellness.
“Projects like this one are what moves Rahway forward,” he said. “It represents our commitment to progress, recreation, and the simple joy of being part of a connected community.”
Construction is expected to move swiftly once ground is broken in the spring. After completion, Wheatena Dog Park will join a growing number of municipal and county-level investments in open space improvements, reflecting Rahway’s efforts to meet increasing demand for outdoor amenities, especially those supporting pet owners.
As Rahway continues to invest in public spaces and enhance recreational offerings, the dog park stands out as a highly visible example of community-driven development — one that supports active lifestyles, social interaction, and accessible green space for a diverse population of residents and their four-legged companions.
Originally reported by Suzanne Russell in My Central Jersey.
