KSHB 41 reporter Claire Bradshaw covers eastern Jackson County, including Blue Springs and Independence. Share your story idea with Claire.
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Raytown's Parks and Recreation Department will cut the ribbon on its first-ever dog park Wednesday, marking the completion of the first phase of the new Terry Copeland Park development.
The dog park, which opens to the public at 11 a.m. Wednesday, features separate fenced-in areas for large and small dogs to run off-leash based on weight. All dogs using the facility must be registered with the city and have proof of current vaccinations.
"We had conversations with our friends and neighbors, and dog parks and splash pads were the highest demand for what our citizens wanted," said David Turner, parks director.
Turner explained the second phase of the project will include a splash pad, playground, shelter and restrooms across the parking lot. According to Turner, Phase 2 will soon enter the bidding process and should be completed by next summer.
The new park is being built on the site of the former water park, which closed in 2017.
Both phases of the Terry Copeland Park project are being funded through grants.
The dog park will be open daily from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m.
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