NILES — When the Niles City Council meeting wrapped up Monday night, dog owner Katrina Andrews was grinning ear to ear.

Since last year, Andrews has been working on plans to create a local dog park on about 1.5 acres of city property. On Monday, the project moved closer to completion, after council members voted unanimously to install fencing around the perimeter of the proposed Ruff and Tumble Dog Park. Additionally, the city vouched to cover up to $5,000 to pay for a 30-foot sidewalk.

Per City Administrator Ric Huff’s suggestion, the city funding will also include the installation of a concrete transition area for dogs and pet owners entering the park. 

Andrews, the owner Andrews’ Tax X Accounting and founder of the nonprofit Ruff and Tumble Dog Park, told city council members she was grateful for their earlier agreement to earmark a part of Riverfront Park south. The agreement was contingent upon Andrews raising funds to cover the cost of the park.

Andrews announced Monday that her nonprofit had successfully raised about $21,000 and she expected to raise another $1,000 to cover the approximate $22,000 cost of the fence. She said the park has contracted with a company called Arrow for fence installation.

“A dog park has been on the back burner for Niles for about a decade and [it is] something that the community has wanted and we are excited about working together with the city,” Andrews said. “This is a wonderful new addition to the city.”

Plans for the park will include ample spaces for pooches of all sizes to run, agility equipment, as well as benches. Andrews also intends to make the park complaint with the American Disabilities Act.

To stock pile funds for maintenance and other operations, Andrews said she has applied for a $35,000 matching grant from the Michigan Economic Development Corporation. Ruff and Tumble Dog Park has until July 30 to raise the funds.

“The grant is going to cover mowing, maintenance, signage, trash removal,” Andrews said. “We are very confident that we are going to make this happen.”

But to make the park a reality, Andrews said community support in the next phase will be crucial. She encouraged those wishing to make a donation to visit the nonprofit’s website at rufftumbledogpark.org.

“Just because the fence is covered, there are a lot of other things we have to take into account and cover,” Andrews said. “Getting the word out that we are seeking and needing donations. The really cool thing is that everybody’s donations will be doubled.”

She also said there will be some upcoming community fundraisers which will be announced later. 

Andrews said she sees the park being a valuable asset to residents in the city.

“The park will enrich our lives and leave a legacy for those kids and puppies not yet born to play together,” Andrews said.