Scout to build pavilion at dog park for Eagle project

UTICA — Cathryn DeRouchie, of Scouts BSA Troop #1402, has a special project planned in Utica as she seeks to become an Eagle Scout.

DeRouchie, who is 17 years old and from Shelby Township, is planning to build a 20-by-10-foot pavilion for shade inside the fenced dog area at Utica’s Pioneer Park. DeRouchie plans to raise funds and build the structure before the end of October.

“The idea behind it is so there will be shade for the visitors and of course the little doggie friends,” she said via email.

The project will include concrete supports to hold up the structure. It will be placed toward the back of the dog park, which is located at 7505 Hahn St. The dog park opened approximately two years ago.

Gus Calandrino, the mayor of Utica, said the city is excited about this special addition, which will improve the dog park for residents and their dogs.

“We’re so happy Scout Cathryn DeRouchie chose Pioneer Park for her Eagle Scout project. The pavilion will provide welcome shade for visitors to the dog park. Visitors will be provided a comfortable place to sit and enjoy watching their dogs play in the park,” he said in an email.

Calandrino said the city is thankful for all the contributions made by community residents to the dog park.

“The City of Utica is thankful to Scout Cathryn DeRouchie for (all) the hard work she (has) done to make this project a reality,” he said.

Those interested in contributing to the effort can email DeRouchie at cathrynseaglescoutproject@gmail.com.