Wayne Park has become something truly special—a place where people, dogs, and nature coexist in harmony. Over the years, it has grown into a vibrant community where families gather, dogs run free, and neighbors connect across rolling hills and open trails.

This community is made up of a beautiful, diverse group of people: Army and Navy veterans, retired NYPD officers, professional dog trainers, dog walkers, and small business owners—including a local trainer who uses the meadow to train dogs. Wayne Park has become a space that not only brings joy to families and their dogs but also supports livelihoods and fosters healing, connection, and purpose.

What makes Wayne Park so unique isn’t just the beauty of the landscape—it’s the people who use it. This community treats the land with deep care and respect, as if it were their own backyard. Dog owners clean up after their pets, maintain safe boundaries, and foster an environment that is welcoming, peaceful, and deeply connected. The park remains clean, safe, and thriving—not in spite of off-leash use, but because of the community’s commitment to nurturing and expanding its beauty.

Additionally, the community is committed to protecting and nurturing the local environment. We support efforts to encourage salmon migration in the stream and are passionate about ensuring that the park continues to thrive—not just for us, but for future generations, local wildlife, and the natural landscape we all cherish.

Despite this, current regulations still prohibit off-leash dogs, and park visitors continue to receive citations for simply allowing their dogs to roam freely as they have for years. It’s time we update the policy to reflect the reality: Wayne Park already functions as a model off-leash dog park—and has for years. All while remaining consistent in handling the park responsibly, respectfully, and in harmony with nature.

We are not simply asking for Wayne Park to become a traditional off-leash dog park.

We are asking for the acknowledgment and legalization of responsible off-leash dog activity, so that those who care for and respect this space can continue to use it without fear of citations. We envision Wayne Park as a place where off-leash recreation, environmental stewardship, and community life can all coexist in harmony.

Designating Wayne Park as an official off-leash dog park would not only legalize what’s already working, but also protect the culture of care and community that makes this place so extraordinary.

Studies show that off-leash dog areas encourage healthier, more socialized pets, improve mental well-being for owners, and foster stronger community connections. Cities around the country have embraced off-leash areas that thrive alongside conservation and development—and Wayne Park has already proven it can do both.

If you’ve witnessed the joy of a community coming together over shared values—respect, responsibility, and love for animals—you know how powerful this space truly is.

Please sign this petition to help formally recognize Wayne Park as an off-leash dog park. Your signature supports a growing, united community and helps preserve a space built on mutual trust and care.

Every signature matters. Please share widely. Let’s make this official—Wayne Park already is.