Waynesville -- June 5, 2026: The Town of Waynesville is proud to announce the grand opening of its newly rebuilt and relocated Dog Park on Tuesday, June 9, 2026, at 5:00 p.m. The event marks a significant milestone in the community's ongoing recovery from Hurricane Helene and the continued restoration of parks and recreation amenities impacted by the storm.
The original dog park sustained extensive damage during Hurricane Helene in 2024. As the Town evaluated options for rebuilding, it became clear that relocating the facility outside of the floodplain would provide a more resilient and sustainable solution for the future. The new dog park has been constructed above the Waynesville Recreation Center at 550 Vance Street, creating a safer location that will be better protected from future flooding events while continuing to serve residents and visitors for years to come.
The new facility offers dedicated space for dogs to exercise, play, and socialize in a safe environment while providing improved accessibility and amenities for park users. The relocation and improvements ensure that this valued community asset can continue serving local families while enhancing recreational opportunities for visitors traveling to Waynesville with their pets.
"The reopening and relocation of the dog park is an incredible milestone in our recovery from Hurricane Helene," said Luke Kinsland, Recreation Director for the Town of Waynesville. "While we lost a valued community asset during the storm, this project gave us the opportunity to rebuild in a location that is better suited for the future. Moving the dog park out of the floodplain helps protect this investment and ensures that residents and visitors will continue to have access to this amenity for years to come. This project is a testament to the resilience of our community and the dedication of everyone who has contributed to Waynesville's recovery."
The Town would like to extend special recognition and appreciation to Visit Haywood for its capital grant support of the new shade structures within the park. These improvements enhance comfort and accessibility for residents and visitors alike and contribute to Waynesville's continued efforts to provide high-quality recreational amenities that strengthen the community's appeal as a destination for outdoor recreation and tourism.
The completion of the dog park represents another important step forward in Waynesville's recovery from Hurricane Helene. The Town remains committed to rebuilding and improving public facilities in ways that strengthen resilience, enhance quality of life, support tourism, and serve the community well into the future.
The public is invited to attend the grand opening ceremony and help celebrate this exciting addition to Waynesville's parks and recreation system.
Grand Opening Details:
Date: Tuesday, June 9, 2026
Time: 5:00 p.m.
Location: Waynesville Dog Park, 550 Vance Street, Waynesville, NC
For additional information, please contact:
Luke Kinsland
Recreation Director
Town of Waynesville
828-456-2030