Chester Frost Park’s new Dog Paddle Park is officially open
HIXSON, Tenn. (WDEF) – In Chester Frost Park, a brand-new dog park has opened, and everyone is howling to get in.
News 12 bounded over to the park to fetch the latest details.
Hamilton County Parks and Recreation hosted the grand opening of Dog Paddle Park, celebrating with a ribbon-cutting ceremony before letting the dogs loose to explore their new playground.
Karen Shostak, Deputy Director of the Parks and Recreation Department, explained that this park has been in the works since last fall.
Though weather delays pushed back the opening, she felt it all worked out for the best.
“Honestly, we couldn’t have asked for a better day to open. Springtime is the perfect season to get outside, enjoy the sunshine, and let the dogs have some fun.”
The best part?
The park is completely free for the community, giving every pup—big or small—a safe space to run, play, and burn off energy.
Local dog owner Kaulyn Henderson expressed how thrilled she was to see her tax dollars go toward something so enjoyable.
“This is exactly what we want—somewhere to get outside, spend time with our dogs, and make memories. We only get so many years with them, so places like this mean a lot.”
The park itself is divided into two sections: a “tiny town” designed just for small dogs and a larger area for the big dogs to run free.
Deputy Mayor Tucker McClendon exclaimed that this park was a game-changer for dog owners like him.
“There aren’t many places where dogs can just roam off-leash, and when you have two big dogs like I do, you need somewhere like this. It’s perfect for letting them get all that energy out while we enjoy the nice weather.”
To top off the celebration, every pup left with a special souvenir—marking the first of many adventures at Dog Paddle Park.
Local resident Becky Kirk shared her excitement, saying the location was perfect.
“We live just a few miles away, and this park is absolutely beautiful. With the lake view and all the space to run, it’s such a great place to bring the dogs.”
With wagging tails and happy faces all around, Dog Paddle Park is sure to become a favorite spot for local dog lovers looking to make the most of the warmer months ahead!
