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Parks Foundation wins $100,000 Energize PC grant; dog park proposed at Dogwood Park
Summary
A parks representative told the Chesterton Sustainability Commission the Parks Foundation received a $100,000 Energize PC grant requiring a 1:1 private match to fund a dog park at Dogwood Park; private fundraising to raise $100,000 is due by the end of 2027.
The Parks Foundation has been awarded a $100,000 Energize PC grant through the Porter County Community Foundation to support a dog park, a parks representative told the Chesterton Sustainability Commission.
The grant requires a 1-to-1 private match: the foundation must raise $100,000 in private funds — from businesses, individuals or other private sources — by the end of 2027, the representative said.
Why it matters: The proposed site, Dogwood Park on the town’s east side, already has parking, restrooms and trail connections, which makes it a shovel-ready location and could speed project delivery if the match is secured.
What was reported - Grant details: "The grant amount was a $100,000 and it's a 1 to 1 match," the parks representative said. The foundation was selected for the Porter County Community Foundation program and will meet soon to plan a capital campaign to raise the required private funds before the 2027 deadline. - Proposed site: Dogwood Park was identified as a preferred location because of existing infrastructure — parking, restrooms and sidewalks — and its connectivity to the trail system.
Next steps: Parks Foundation and park staff will meet to organize fundraising and campaign strategy. The commission acknowledged the opportunity and said it will discuss how the commission can support outreach or leverage community connections.
Quote: "The grant amount was a $100,000 and it's a 1 to 1 match. We have until the end of 2027 to raise a $100,000 in private funding sources," the parks representative said.
Closing: Commissioners expressed support and noted the town’s role in promoting the project and coordinating follow-up efforts with the Parks Foundation.
